The Sportage has noticeably body roll in corners, and isn't really the sportiest of CUVs, despite the name. The CR-V's worse, because it feels lumpy and large when you throw it in a corner, and the feather-light steering isn't very communicative.

Both don't hold a candle to the CX-5.

Of course, handling is a moot point to bring up to your wife. Anyway, between the two, a diesel Sportage is where I'd spend my money on (if I had that money). Power, frugality, looks, price. CR-V's definitely more spacious and feels more upscale, but it's nowhere as charming as the gen1 CR-V.