In its 21st year, the Honda CR-V is mature, a standard bearer in the sport utility market. The 2015 edition further defines the top-selling people mover.

The 2015 edition isn’t a new generation, but there’s plenty new. For starters, the 2.4-liter, 185-horsepower engine is now the same as the Accord’s direct-injection, four-cylinder with a continuously variable transmission.

The exterior styling has been refreshed. And, so, too has the interior. New are a front console armrest, rear climate vents, a 7-inch touchscreen linked to the LaneWatch blind spot monitoring system on the higher-level trim. The Touring trim also has upgraded safety technologies.

The Weekly Driver Test Drive

The 2015 Honda CR-V is a five-passenger crossover sport utility vehicle. It’s available in five trims, including my top-line Touring edition. All trims are available in front-wheel or all-wheel drive.

The Honda CR-V has a healthy list of standard features. The Touring edition adds 18-inch wheels, projector beam headlights, a power liftgate, adaptive cruise control, a forward collision mitigation system, a lane departure warning system, driver seat memory settings, a navigation system and HD radio.

With its new engine, the 2015 Honda CR-V has become additionally efficient. The combined EPA-estimated mpg is now 29, three mpg better than last year. That places among segment leaders among non-hybrid SUVs.

To reiterate, the 2015 Honda CR-V isn’t a new generation but it could be via its new look. Honda has added LED running lights and new front and rear fascias, while the interior benefits from extended touchscreen availability, mildly improved materials and a more traditional center console design. There’s also a top-of-the-line Touring trim, which comes with extra luxuries and advanced safety systems.

Throughout its tenure, the Honda CR-V has never been known for its sportiness. But with its revised suspension tuning and wider wheels, it has smooth ride in city that highway driving, and rough spots along the way are largely defused.

Another improvement this year is thicker insulation, and it’s noticeable while driving, The new Honda CR-V is also quiet, a trait shared by few competitors.

Likes:

Great fuel economy for the segment.

Plenty of cargo space overall interior space, particular in the back seat.

Overall comfort strong in the class.

Dislikes:

Touchscreen controls difficult to see and use.

Cruise control and other functions’ levers are recessed and inconveniently located behind the steering wheel.

Facts & Figures: 2015 Honda CR-V

Acceleration: 0-60 mph, 8.8 seconds.
Airbags: 6.
Fuel Economy: 26 mpg (city), 33 mpg (highway), 28 mpg (combined), continuously variable transmission.
Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price: $32,770.00
Manufacturer’s Web site: www.honda.com.
Price As Tested: $33,600.00.
Warranty: Bumper to bumper, 3 years/36,000 miles; Powertrain, 5 years/60,000 miles; Corrosion: 5 years/unlimited mileage.

What Others Say:

“Honda’s CR-V is already known for its efficiency and utility and the 2015 CR-V enhances those qualities. The refreshed 2015 Honda CR-V gets a new engine and transmission aimed at further improving efficiency plus new safety, comfort and convenience features. If you’re shopping for a top-shelf compact SUV, the CR-V remains one of your best bets.” — Edmunds.com.

“Even though the Honda CR-V lacks seductive lines and even nuances of excitement, it’s one of my favorite crossover SUVs. Sure, it lacks the agility of the CX-5, or cabin refinement of a Ford Escape; but the engine, chassis and suspension are dialed in to velvet-smooth satisfaction. Top that with everyday practicality, and it’s one of the highlights of Honda’s lineup.” — Yahoo Autos.

“The competition will find it difficult to match the new CR-V in looks, fuel economy, feature content and safety, but where it really stands out is value for the money.” — Kelley Blue Book.

The Weekly Driver’s Final Words:

“Comfort, fuel economy, cargo room, versatility. The Honda CR-V has long been at the top of its class, and its remains their with its further improvements for 2015.”