This second-generation CR-V features smoother styling than the original (pre-2002) CR-V. And the shorter, blunter front-end creates a more rugged look. The CR-V still sports its trademark high-mount tail lights on either side of the rear window.

The rear glass opens on its own, separately from the tailgate, which is good. Unfortunately, the lower part of the gate is side-hinged and opens to the right. That's a nod toward Honda's right-hand drive models in Japan; in America, you'll have to walk around the tailgate when you're loading cargo from the curb, inconvenient at the airport.