Rear door now a lift-gate instead of swing open (as on Toyota RAV-4). Upgraded design with spare tire (compact) stored inside. Improved (IMHO) exterior styling, does not look like a mini-SUV, more car like appearance. Sleek look.
Drivers position is raised and view out is excellent. Easy entrance/exit compared to even a large sedan.
Rear seats are quite comfortable for passengers and have plenty of legroom. Entry/exit is easy. No hesitation to drive friends to a show / dinner theater /etc. where they have to stay in back an hour or more.