I am contemplating a CUV to replace my '14 Passat when the lease expires in 10 months. I'm sure the CR-V is a decent vehicle to drive and is well built etc., but, like most newer Honda's, it's styling is sooo ugly, and I wouldn't want such a small displacement engine in a vehicle of this heft, especially with AWD. Both shortcomings are deal breakers for me. In fact the only two compact CUV's that interest me, the upcoming Tiguan and CX-5, haven't even hit the lots yet.
I think it looks fantastic! it hits most highs for styling with me. I also have no problem with the turbo engine, it seems like it can keep up with the competition:
E.g. CRV vs Tiguan
CRV:
Zero to 60 mph: 7.6 sec
Zero to 100 mph: 21.5 sec
Zero to 110 mph: 28.8 sec
Rolling start, 5-60 mph: 8.1 sec
Top gear, 30-50 mph: 4.2 sec
Top gear, 50-70 mph: 5.3 sec
Standing ¼-mile: 16.0 sec @ 89 mph
Top speed (governor limited): 124 mph
Braking, 70-0 mph: 166 ft
Roadholding, 300-ft-dia skidpad*: 0.82 g
Tiguan:
Zero to 60 mph: 7.7 sec
Zero to 100 mph: 22.0 sec
Zero to 110 mph: 29.6 sec
Rolling start, 5-60 mph: 8.1 sec
Top gear, 30-50 mph: 4.0 sec
Top gear, 50-70 mph: 5.8 sec
Standing ¼-mile: 16.0 sec @ 88 mph
Top speed (governor limited): 119 mph
Braking, 70-0 mph: 185 ft
Roadholding, 300-ft-dia skidpad: 0.79 g
Source: C&D