CR-V

While the 2019 CR-V sees no changes from the previous model year, there was really no need for Honda to change things up. The engineers managed to strike an ideal balance between comfort, cargo capacity, performance, and reliability. The base LX model is a decent option, but moving up to the EX gets you additional benefits, including a more powerful yet more fuel-efficient engine. Moving up to the EX also gives you larger wheels (18-inches rather than the 17-inch wheels the EX comes with), as well as a few other niceties, including keyless entry and remote start, heated mirrors and more. On all trim levels, you’ll find a cavernous interior and best-in-class cargo space, as well as plenty of in-cabin storage areas. Other standard equipment includes LED running lights, a rearview camera, and a five-inch infotainment display (upgraded to seven inches with higher trims). The CR-V also performed perfectly in crash testing, and Honda does a great job of making almost all safety and driver assist features standard equipment across the spectrum of trims.

The RAV4 has been around about the same amount of time as the CR-V, and like its counterpart, it has evolved over time. Today’s RAV4 is stylish and sleek, but the CR-V still manages to outperform its chief rival. The RAV4 suffers from a few noticeable flaws. One of those is that there is only a single engine available and the one on offer does not offer good acceleration. The engine is mated to an eight-speed transmission The passenger seat is notably uncomfortable, and the steering feels disconnected. It should also be noted that many of the convenience, safety, and driver assist features that are available as standard equipment on the CR-V are only available on higher trim levels with the RAV4, meaning that you’ll spend more money in the long run with this alternative.

The 2019 Toyota Highlander is mostly unchanged from the previous model, although new side view mirrors were added. Like the RAV4, the Highlander has been around for some time, but it still fails to really hit the same high points that the CR-V does. Most drivers find that the base engine is simply too weak to be a viable option, but upgrading to a higher trim level can be costly. Additionally, Toyota failed to make Apple CarPlay or Android Auto options with the infotainment/hands-free system, and the third-row seats are noticeably cramped, particularly when you compare them to competitors with more interior space. In order to take advantage of more advanced safety features, you’ll need to upgrade to at least the XLE trim level (blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alerts, keyless entry, etc.). Note that this is also the trim level where the more powerful V6 engine finally becomes available. For a more refined, roomy, and reliable compact SUV, stick with the crowd favorite CR-V!

Similar in size to the Highlander, the Nissan Pathfinder receives some minor updates and additions for 2019. Most notably, the new Pathfinder offers additional USB ports, and rear parking sensors are offered on some trim levels (not across the board, though). The base level sees virtually no driver aids, but upgrading to a higher trim will let you take advantage of most of them. The cargo space is below average for the class, and the Pathfinder’s third-row seats are pretty cramped. For those who really want the best mix of features and functionality, it’s necessary to upgrade all the way to the SL trim, which is where you’ll find things like leather upholstery and a 360-degree parking camera. For drivers on a budget, the Honda CR-V offers a more affordable SUV option that doesn’t lack for capability, space, or advanced features.

The new Honda CR-V is part of an increasingly crowded market segment. However, that does not prevent it from really standing out. From more interior space and creature comforts to a wider range of safety features and driver assist features as standard equipment, you really can’t beat the CR-V. Check one out for yourself at your local dealership and see the difference for yourself!