Faults:

Oil is dripping from the back of the engine due to gasket wear.

Problems with the air conditioning solenoid. This low-quality component tends to fail over the years or at high mileage due to the engine temperature near the compressor.

Loud noise during a cold start.

When turning in tight spaces or performing slow-speed maneuvers, a dragging sensation or a humming noise may occur if the differential fluid (Dual Pump Fluid) has degraded.

The clutch broke.

General Comments:

The vehicle looks, and is, much larger on the inside than it appears from the outside. With an excellent use of interior space, comfortable seats, good visibility, and a flat rear floor, this is an SUV that can comfortably accommodate a family of five.

The interior components, seats, accessories, cup holders, dashboard, etc, are of very high quality and hold up very well over the years. The sound insulation is excellent, with no annoying noises even when driving at speeds above 130 km/h. The only problematic noise occurs during a cold start.

Being a 2008 model, it is also very safe, featuring ABS and disc brakes on all four wheels. The steering and brakes are quite good as well, the brakes, in particular, are highly responsive.

The engine is as reliable as they come, not a single issue. The K24 block is legendary; with basic maintenance and timely oil changes, it runs like a Swiss watch. Although I sold it with less than 100,000 kilometers on the clock, it’s clear that it could easily go well beyond that without any trouble. As for fuel consumption, well, that is a problem; it’s quite high, especially considering it runs on petrol.

In addition to the air conditioning issues I mentioned earlier, the rear suspension feels a bit stiff or bouncy when the vehicle is unloaded; this is the only negative point I have regarding ride comfort.

Otherwise, the car generally performs well, though I did encounter some unexpected problems, especially considering it’s a Japanese brand. Problems with the air conditioning and oil leaks shouldn't be normal given such limited use.

Faults:

Clutch failed. Not in itself a negative, but the garage had to cut an engine mount off during replacement and then found Honda had none in the country and they were not expected for THREE MONTHS. He had to buy one from a breaker in Lithuania.

Instrument console failed. Honda wanted over £1100 for a new one. I got one from a breaker for a tenth of that.

Power steering has now started "stuttering" and it looks like there is a slight fluid leak. Easy enough to top up, except Honda use a proprietary fluid and use of a general purpose one may damage the pump/seals. Unfortunately I discovered this on a Saturday afternoon and the local Honda dealer is shut at the weekend.

General Comments:

It's comfortable and well equipped and, for a decent sized SUV, fairly economical.

Performance and handling are decent too.