Ivividly remember the late 90’s like it was just yesterday.  OPM was bigger than ever, gas prices hovered at a decent 24 pesos/ liter; we still had a thicker ozone layer and it seemed like three out of five motorists owned the ubiquitous Honda CR-V.

This vehicle was the embodiment of youth, boldness and good times.  Whether it was an out-of-towner on a date, a road trip with the guys or just a grocery run with the kids, the CR-V seemed like a 4-wheel representation of FUN.

After 16 years, the 4th generation Honda CR-V still lives up to those excellent qualities but this time with more awareness on the impact it makes on the environment.  Much of the emphasis of the new design and engineering is to curb the CR-V’s thirst for fuel and to make it more efficient – all part of Honda’s environmental vision:  Realizing “the joy and freedom of mobility” and “a sustainable society where people can enjoy life.”

The CR-V’s trim and defined look may make it seem bigger than the previous model but it’s actually an inch shorter and lower, it weighs 50 pounds lighter plus it also is 10 percent more aerodynamic.  Collectively, this adds to bigger fuel savings and that’s just on the outside.

Inside, the Econ button is a new feature and when turned on, it puts a limit on the revs, dulls throttle input and puts constraints on certain accessories like the A/C to squeeze more kms/ liter.

The SX variant has a total hands-free smart key.  Just keep it in your pocket or purse, reach for the door handle and you might as well say “open sesame”.

The ‘Start’ button brings the 2.4L engine with 185 horsepower and 219.6 Nm of torque to life.  These aren’t over-the-top numbers but they’re on the generous side of the segment standard.  The power generated allows the CR-V to be superbly poised as it carries itself around.  There is always enough to lug around its 1.5-ton body with an extra oomph in those times you’re in a bit of a rush.  ‘Econ’ on the whole time, I got 12km/ liter on the highway averaging between 70-90 kph while keeping it at 100 kph got me 9.5. The metro’s stop-and-go yielded about 8-9km/ liter.

This full-time 4WD accelerates in a very smooth and steady fashion all through the 5-speed AT. It goes through the gears in a very brisk but firm manner under any condition which gives you the utmost confidence behind the wheel.

I would have preferred just a tad more play on the suspension but given the CR-V’s weight, it may be too much of a trade-off.  Tough call but it isn’t going to be a deal breaker by any stretch of the imagination.

The Honda CR-V still managed to expand inside and actually increase cabin area as its exterior measurements decreased. Climbing onto the driver’s seat made me feel like I needed to have bulked up myself because of so much more wiggle room compared to the previous model.

The i-MID, also a new feature, is essentially the monitor that provides complete information about the CR-V from its performance to the radio station you’re listening to.  It’s also a TV screen for the rear back-up camera and a console to modify certain settings to suit your personal preference.

With the engine compartment reduced, all the buttons and controls are very well laid-out on the expansive dashboard.  It isn’t the most hi-tech SUV but it has all the basic elements like a trip computer and USB connectivity.

Packed my family in the CR-V for an overnighter out-of-town and if you’ve ever lugged a three-year old along on a trip, well, you’re not exactly “packing light” that’s for sure.  The rear cargo region is voluminous to say the least.  I threw a three-wheeled toddler bike in along with what seemed like a dozen bags and it looked like I needed five more three-year-olds to actually fill it up. You shouldn’t have to learn a new skill just to load luggage in a vehicle and the CR-V guarantees that.

If you need more space, I love the one-lever system the CR-V has.  All you need is to pull and the entire second row folds flat.  It’s absolutely idiot-proof.

The CR-V is a roomy five-seater with plenty more actual roominess to go around.  No weary knees, bad backs and cramping muscles in this cabin.

And to top it all off, the rear A/C vents make second row seating literally “cooler” than ever.

Lastly, the safety measures on the CR-V are comprehensive.  The G-CON (G-Force Control) body structure is a standard that takes into account full frontal, frontal offset, side and rear collisions plus pedestrian protection as well.  That is Honda’s commitment to safety that is higher than most country’s criteria.  Add to that dual front SRS airbags, Anti-Lock Brake System, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, Hill Start Assist and Vehicle Stability Assist.

The 2013 Honda CR-V, for a compact SUV, is comfortable, spacious, reliable, more fuel-efficient and most importantly safe.  You’re relaxed, fresh and safe with some spare change when you get there.

Well, now you know why CR-V spells F-U-N.