With over a half million CR-Vs sold since its U.S. introduction in the 1997 model year, Honda should be pretty satisfied with the success of its entry level sport-ute. The first generation Civic-based mini-ute offered a combination of rugged styling, interior roominess, nimble handling, and thriftiness that endeared it to many. For 2002, Honda engineers have improved upon the formula without losing sight of what brought success to the CR-V in the first place. Power/torque, interior room, and overall refinement have improved, without sacrificing its compact exterior dimensions or fuel economy.