I believe the VUE didn't qualify for C&D's small SUV award because of its long wheel base. That's what the Saturnites were whining about. Exterior-wise, the VUE has is larger, probably because of the spaceframe structure. But interior-wise, CR-V has a commanding lead with passenger and cargo volume. Compare:
Code:
CR-V VUE
Exterior Length 178.6" 181.3"
Exterior Width 70.2" 71.6"
Exterior Height 66.2" 66.4"
Wheelbase 103" 107"
Front Legroom 41.3" 41.2"
Rear Legroom 39.4" 36.8"
Front Headroom 38.9" 40.4"
Rear Headroom 39.1" 40.3"
Front Hiproom 54.5" 51.6"
Rear Hiproom 53.5" 52.7"
Front Shoulder Room 56.9" 55.4"
Rear Shoulder Room 56.5" 55.3"
Passenger Volume 106cu.ft. 100cu.ft.
Interior Cargo Volume 33.5cu.ft. 30.8cu.ft.
Interior Cargo Volume
w/Seats Folded 72.0cu.ft. 63.8cu.ft.