The Ford Escape gets a wide array of engine options, including two turbocharged units that are livelier than the CR-V's engine. The Escape's automatic also has six gears instead of Honda's five, and it's available with more sophisticated technology features such as a power liftgate. But the Escape costs more when compared with many CR-V models, and it's not as spacious. The Kia Sportage is fuel efficient, sports a powerful optional turbocharged engine and has a nicer exterior than the CR-V. But the Sportage is cramped in the rear and cargo area and has a stiffer ride. The Mazda CX-5 leads the compact crossover class on fuel economy and offers a manual transmission, unlike the CR-V. But the Mazda is not quick and lacks the spaciousness of the Honda. Finally, the Toyota RAV4 has an available V6 and third-row seat that Honda doesn't offer. But the RAV4's swing-out liftgate is impractical and the design is getting old.
Even against flashier, faster competitors, the CR-V remains a solid pick because it hits all of the compact crossover essentials. It's a roomy, well-equipped vehicle that is just the right size for a wide variety of people. That must be why it ranks so highly in crossover sales year after year.