There’s plenty to like about the newest Honda CR-V but is the seven-seater AWD petrol version good enough to take on the most practical of its rivals?

If you want three rows of seats and all-wheel drive, then the 2019 Honda CR-V is available only with an automatic CVT gearbox and the 187hp (190PS) version of the turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder petrol engine.

0-62mph (100km/h) comes in 10 seconds while top speed is set at 124mph (200km/h). Honda isn’t offering a diesel-powered version of the CR-V, instead you can opt for the Hybrid model, which is also available in front- and all-wheel drive variants.

Honda’s all-wheel drive system can shift up to 60 percent of the torque to the rear axle when necessary while the chassis features a MacPherson strut up front and a multi-link setup at the rear. Both axles get hydraulic suspension bushings for better ride quality.

In addition, there’s also a noise-canceling system to keep the cabin quieter than ever while the third row of seats can fit two adults but only for short trips.

Europe’s compact SUV segment is notoriously crowded with models from almost every manufacturer; some offer more room, others pretend to be a sports car but very few manage to hit the sweet spot. Let’s find out if the Honda CR-V is one of them.