SPACE, comfort and convenience were always part of the mantra for Honda’s groundbreaking crossover, the CR-V, but it has recently been swamped by myriad updated models.

The fifth-generation version sits on an all-new platform and packs a turbocharged petrol engine for the first time, but don’t think it’s gone chasing the dynamics leaders of the pack.

It has retained the targeted aims of accommodating families and storing the associated paraphernalia and while it’s able to hunt a little quicker than some, it’s far happier at a brisk and sociable pace.

The new CR-V in VTi-L guise tested here is offered with seven seats, and while it compromises cargo space and headroom in some areas, and misses out on some safety features, the versatility factor can’t be ignored.