The engine's shortage of guts would be surmountable if it weren't for the five-speed automatic gearbox, which does its best to strangle the life out of it. It's desperately slow to kick down, and although taking matters into your own hands by using the steering wheel-mounted shift paddles helps, driving on faster roads is far too frustrating. Progress is smooth enough at lower speeds, but this is a car that just won't be rushed. Stubborn gearbox and sluggish performance aside, the CR-V is easy to drive - the steering is light and it's quiet at speed. The ride is on the firm side (the 18in wheels on EX models probably don't help), however, and you're aware of its height and weight at even moderate speeds through corners. Some SUVs drive more like saloons, but not this one. Maximum (braked) towing weight is 1500kg - 500kg less than for manual diesel versions. Like all but the two cheapest versions, this CR-V has Honda's latest four-wheel drive system, which works the opposite way round to the previous car's - it sets off in four-wheel drive, but quickly reverts to front-wheel drive if it's not needed. It generally isn't. For all its faults, the CR-V is a fantastic family car. Its cabin is large, practical and feels built to withstand a nuclear blast, let alone the rigours of family life. Most of the smart-looking dashboard is easy to use, although the satnav/stereo system is the same dated, fiddly set-up you get in all Hondas. This is one area where Honda needs to raise its game. This model does not paint the CR-V in a flattering light, so it's limited to a three-star rating, but is you choose more carefully there are plenty of versions well worthy of four. Entry-level S models get all the kit you really need, even though most buyers will upgrade to SE, which for a £1500 premium adds toys such as front and rear parking sensors, a rear-view camera, Bluetooth, automatic headlights and wipers and power folding door mirrors. Go for the strong 2.2-litre i-DTEC diesel engine, a manual gearbox and SE trim and the CR-V costs a much more sensible £26,105. Still not cheap, but that gets you one of the best family SUVs around. The 1.6 i-DTEC diesel version, due this autumn, could be better still. Honda CR-V 2.0 i-VTEC EX 4wd automatic List price: £30,400 Price as tested: £30,900 Telegraph rating: three out of five stars