2007 Honda CR-V

In 2007 the Honda CR-V became the best-selling sport/ute in the U.S., with over 219,000 sold. One reason, no doubt, is that, in addition to delivering nearly 22 mpg, this small 'ute can haul large loads. Case in point: Photog Brian Vance recently helped a friend bring home a brand-new 42-inch flat-screen LCD TV. "With the second row folded down and flipped up, the CR-V swallowed the big box easily." TV? Big deal. What about an area rug? "I also helped the same friend pick up an 8x10-foot area rug that she purchased on Craigs List," notes Vance. "We rolled up the rug and slid it over the folded second row and between the front seats-very tight fit, but, nonetheless, we were able to squeeze it in without having to drive with the liftgate open." n