It started with an inter-brand debate and ended with a unanimous decision. Honda’s smaller HR-V is newer and similarly impressive, just missing out on election, but it’s the CR-V that stood strong to claim the win as both an outstanding rival and alternative to the Toyota RAV4, and a three-model range that caters for all kinds of buyers.
The Honda CR-V range starts at $53,000 for the Sport AWD, with a 1.5 VTEC turbo, strong on power and economy, plus its on-demand AWD system that Kiwis seem to love, offering outstanding drive and traction in any condition.
For families needing a few more seats, the Sport 7 offers the same engine, but front-drive, with the added third row of seating. There are also Premium versions of each, that add extras like black alloy wheels and a panoramic sunroof.
Real-world fuel economy in the 8l/100km range is solid for both models, the weight of the AWD system offset by the weight of the extra seats in the Sport 7: a good figure considering either model’s lack of electrification.
That technology and added economy is reserved for the top-line Honda CR-V RS e:HEV, the hybrid model that runs front-drive, and a 2.0-litre four-cylinder with a clever hybrid system that is constantly deciding which is the best way to maximise economy or performance, depending which mode the driver selects and/or how they’re driving. It is a step-up in cost at $67,000, an $8k gap from the Sport 7 Premium, but it’s an immensely impressive car, and stamps itself as the aspirational one in a Honda CR-V range of three that are similar but distinctly different models combining comfort, budget, function and economy.
Runners up: Kia Sportage, Nissan X-Trail.
AA DRIVEN CAR OF THE YEAR CLASS WINNERS FOR 2024
City SUV
Large SUV
Passenger
Hybrid/EV
Luxury
Sports/Performance
Lifestyle/Adventure
Safest
People's Choice
And the overall winner is...!