The name explains Honda's compact SUV -- Comfortable Runabout Vehicle. It's a five-door crossover wagon built on the platform of a car. Models of 2005 show restyling for the body in front and expanded safety features, plus a new Special Edition trim. Cabin layout seems conventional with tall front buckets and a folding bench in back that holds two adults comfortably or three in a pinch. However, unconventional designs inside make creative use of the space and enhance the comfort factor.

There are four trims this year. Entry point comes with a FWD LX that piles on convenience features. LX trim also works with 4WD, as does deluxe EX trim. The new Special Edition (SE) has heated leather seats and door mirrors, leather on the steering wheel and shift knob, body-colored bumpers and side moldings, and a hard cover for the spare tire on the tailgate. All CR-Vs pull from the same engine, a 2.4-liter in-line-four that musters 160 hp. A new five-speed automatic transmission is standard, but a manual five-speed is available with 4WD. Safety items on all models increase this year to include an anti-lock brake system (ABS), VSA and side air bags.

Honda brings a redesigned Odyssey minivan to market with innovative designs and substantial on-board safety gear. The new structure maintains the same length as a previous Odyssey but gains an inch in width to expand the cabin. Inside, there are up to three tiers of seats in place with options for folding or removing the second-row seats and a 'Magic Seat' in back with single-motion folding into a well in the floor for a slick disappearing act. Odyssey's new V6 engine with variable cylinder management (VCM) generates 255 hp to create class-leading fuel efficiency as well as power.

Safety devices extend to a traction control system (TCS) and vehicle stability assist (VSA), plus curtain-style air bags above all three rows of seats. Deluxe Touring trim gets power adjustable pedals and a power tailgate, a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), three zones for the automatic climate control system, removable center console for the second tier and a deluxe audio kit. Options extend to a DVD-based entertainment system with wireless infrared headphones, a satellite-linked navigation system with voice recognition and a rearview camera. (...BACK)

Read our Review: Honda Odyssey