Time's up for Honda to introduce the U.S. spec version of its gently refreshed 2010 CR-V that gains mild refinements and upgrades to the exterior and interior as well as a more powerful engine under the hood. On the outside, the CR-V features a mildly reworked fascia with a new grille and bumper design, a re-sculpted hood, and a restyled rear bumper shape plus new alloy wheel designs.

Upgrades to the interior focus on new features and added functionality with the Bluetooth HandsFreeLink now included on models equipped with the available Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System while auto on/off headlights are now standard on the EX-L grade and finally, the front seats have wider center armrests on all models.

Changes under the bonnet of the 2010 model year CR-V, however, are more important as upgrades to the 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine that is linked to a an electronically controlled 5-speed automatic transmission, result in an improved output of 180HP, up from 166 horsepower of the outgoing 2009MY CR-V.

Despite the power boost, Honda claims that city/highway EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings have been improved to 21/28 mpg on 2WD models and 21/27 mpg on models equipped with 4WD, an increase of 1 mpg in both city and highway driving on all models.

The 2010 CR-V is on sale now at Honda's U.S. dealerships with prices ranging from $22,545 for the entry-level LX 2WD to $30,455 for the top-grade EX-L 4WD with Navi (see photo above for detailed pricing).