Honda is supplying concerned CR-V owners with a sticker pointing out that not all 4x4s are big, dirty and dangerous. The move has been prompted by CR-V owners finding themselves having to defend their buying choice to anti-4x4 protesters (see below link).

The letter and window sticker highlights the fact that the new CR-V has lower emissions than many hatchbacks and saloons, as well as taking up less road space than a BMW 5-Series and is equivalent to the size of a Ford Mondeo. The sticker also address the new CR-V's good safety features.

This is the first time a car manufacturer has taken direct action on this debate to convince opponents of 4x4 vehicles that they can be friendly to the environment, safe, and no greedier than most other cars.

Honda's environment manager John Kingston said: 'The "one size fits all" approach of anti-4x4 protesters is confusing. Some customers have expressed their concerns and frustration about being criticised for driving a CR-V. The CR-V is cleaner for the environment than many non-SUV cars, it's more compact than most 4x4s and has scored very highly for occupant and pedestrian safety.'