Honda’s new CR-V arrived in dealerships just a matter of months ago but has already scooped more than 140 awards, including ‘4x4 of the Year’. There are two engines on offer.

I drove the 2.2-litre diesel, which delivers 150PS with loads of torque. Also available is a free-revving 2.0-litre i-VTEC petrol engine, and there are four trim levels – EX, SR, SE and S. A British-built SUV, the CR-V now has a new grille that flows into the headlights, while the rear lights wrap right over the tailgate.

The range includes the option of front-wheel drive (with the petrol engine) alongside the established four-wheel drive.

Idle Stop technology is standard, where the engine automatically switches off when stationary, say at traffic lights or in jams, and restarts once you press the clutch.

However, this can be switched off if you can’t get used to it. Also helping save fuel and lower emissions is ECO Assist, which uses a series of colours to show how efficient your driving style is.

If the CR-V is being driven economically, the dashboard glows green.

If you slightly exceed the optimum level of throttle control, the dashboard will glow white/green.

Finally, it will glow white during heavy acceleration and deceleration, so be warned! The CR-V soaks up the bigger bumps really well, and the ride is smooth and comfortable. Honda has worked hard to reduce cabin noise, and it is much quieter inside. It’s also a great car to drive when it’s snowing – I had plenty of confidence in the CR-V, even relishing the chance to drive on ungritted roads in poor conditions just to test its performance, which did not disappoint. And, as my family is about to go from three to four very soon, it’s ideal for transporting young children too, with Isofix fasteners for both child seats and plenty of space, along with rear doors that open to almost 90 degrees.

Boot space has grown by 147 litres to 1,648 litres, with the clever rear seats folded flat.

Opt for the space-saver spare wheel and you’ll have 1,669 litres of capacity.

The boot can now accommodate two mountain bikes or four sets of golf clubs, or in my case a buggy, a travel cot and a huge pile of baby paraphernalia. Overall, it is easy to drive, family friendly and very reliable.

Fact File:
Car:
Honda CR-V 2.2
On the road: £26,105
0-62mph: 9.7 seconds
Top speed: 118mph
Fuel: 50.4mpg (combined)
CO2 emissions: 149g/km