late to this thread.....kajero, i've had a honda crv for a couple of years now and have luv'ed the size for the ease of putting a bike into and out of the back without lowering the bikes seat or taking a tire off. My city/commuter spends the most time in the back and it's the heaviest of my bikes. We do sometimes use a roof rack for two bikes, or a third too, when we need the room inside. The crv has a comfortable ride, 30+ mpg on the highway, enough room inside to sleep in the back if you want (the front seatback goes down far enough for a rest stop nap). It's got a good navigation program with a good screen that's also used for a nice wide-view back up camera too. Mine's a 4wd for going off paved roads for work in the desert or just to go exploring.....would be good for winter's in cold climates too. No problems or service needs other than oil and air filters in 3 years. Alex brought a porsche boxster into the marriage so we have fun and practical now.

At least the crv is another one to look at in the smaller suv category...I had an audi a3 sportback before the crv and liked that too especially for the handling, ride and interior but it turned out to be too small for two/three people trips with bikes and gear.