Because I like driving automatic cars I initially tried an auto petrol CR-V but found it just a bit sluggish so I opted for the diesel with the older 2.2 engine. I may be wrong but I felt the vehicle is just a bit too big for a 1.6 diesel. Also the maintenance, which I mostly do myself, is easier on the 2.2, and it has excellent pulling power. I bet you can't wait til March!