The world of SUVs and crossovers is packed with competition. From rugged off-roaders to sleek, city-friendly models, there is an option for every type of driver. However, few vehicles offer the unique combination of performance, versatility, and comfort like the Honda Crosstour. A vehicle that emerged with the mission of blending sedan-like driving dynamics with SUV practicality, the Honda Crosstour is an exceptional example of innovative automotive design. In this article, we explore the Crosstour’s distinctive features, performance metrics, and compare it with other vehicles in its segment. This in-depth look will help potential buyers, car enthusiasts, and anyone considering a crossover understand what makes the Honda Crosstour a vehicle worth considering even in today’s crowded automotive market.
1. Introduction to the Honda Crosstour
The Honda Crosstour was first introduced in 2009 and aimed to bridge the gap between a family sedan and a versatile SUV. Built on the same platform as the Honda Accord, the Crosstour combined the reliability and handling of a sedan with the elevated stance and spacious interior of an SUV. Its unique design, especially the coupe-like rear end, made it a distinctive model in Honda’s lineup. Though it was discontinued after the 2015 model year, the Crosstour remains a favorite in the used car market, particularly for those seeking a combination of luxury, utility, and performance.
Despite its discontinuation, the Crosstour’s legacy endures as a reliable, well-rounded option for those who need the best of both worlds—a practical daily driver with plenty of room for luggage and passengers, alongside the power and efficiency needed for long road trips.
2. Honda Crosstour Design Philosophy
One of the first things that stands out about the Honda Crosstour is its design. At a glance, it’s easy to identify the influence of the Honda Accord in its architecture. However, the Crosstour’s elongated shape, steeply sloping roofline, and higher ride height signal its SUV heritage. The vehicle’s rear end was notably unique, featuring a hatchback-style opening that provided added cargo space.
Exterior Highlights:
- Aerodynamic Shape: The sleek, aerodynamic body of the Crosstour allowed for better fuel efficiency and a smoother driving experience.
- Distinctive Grille and Front End: The front grille offered a bold, aggressive look, while its sweeping curves contributed to a refined and sophisticated appearance.
- Coupe-Like Rear: This design decision set it apart from traditional SUVs, making it an interesting choice for buyers seeking something different from conventional crossovers.
On the inside, the Honda Crosstour continued this theme of premium features and comfort. Its elevated driving position and spacious cabin provided ample headroom and legroom for passengers, especially in the rear seats.
3. Engine Options and Driving Experience
The Honda Crosstour was offered with two engine configurations, making it versatile enough to cater to a wide range of drivers. Whether seeking efficiency or power, the Crosstour provided choices that were both practical and performance-oriented.
- 2.4L Inline-4 Engine: With a respectable 190 horsepower, this engine was a solid choice for those looking for a balance between power and fuel economy. It was paired with front-wheel drive (FWD) for everyday driving.
- 3.5L V6 Engine: The 271 horsepower offered by the V6 engine provided more substantial power, making it ideal for highway driving, road trips, and carrying heavier loads. This engine could be paired with either FWD or all-wheel drive (AWD), offering enhanced performance in various driving conditions.
In terms of driving experience, the Honda Crosstour delivered a smooth ride with responsive handling. The V6 engine offered more than enough power for highway merging and passing, while the I4 engine provided efficient fuel economy for daily commuting.
4. Interior Comfort and Space
Inside the Honda Crosstour, you’ll find a cabin designed for comfort and convenience. The vehicle’s elevated seating position offered great visibility, and the roomy interior meant passengers could enjoy a comfortable ride without feeling cramped.
Notable Interior Features:
- High-Quality Materials: The cabin was equipped with soft-touch materials, including leather upholstery in higher trims.
- Infotainment System: A well-designed touchscreen system integrated with Bluetooth connectivity, navigation, and audio controls was standard in upper trims, making for an enjoyable driving experience.
- Spacious Cargo Area: Thanks to the Crosstour’s hatchback design, the rear cargo area offered significant storage space. When the rear seats were folded down, the Crosstour provided over 51 cubic feet of space, ideal for hauling large items.
This combination of features made the Honda Crosstour an excellent choice for those who needed a comfortable daily driver while still having the versatility to carry more gear when needed.
5. Safety Features and Ratings
The safety of the Honda Crosstour was one of its strong points. Honda equipped the Crosstour with a range of active and passive safety features designed to keep drivers and passengers secure.
Key Safety Features:
- Side-Impact Airbags: Standard on all models to protect passengers in the event of a collision.
- Antilock Braking System (ABS): This feature ensured the driver could maintain steering control during an emergency stop.
- Stability and Traction Control: These systems helped keep the vehicle stable during adverse weather or emergency maneuvers.
- Rearview Camera: Standard on most trims, making parking and reversing easier.
The Crosstour also performed well in crash tests. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded it a 5-star rating for side-impact safety, while the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) rated the Crosstour highly in crashworthiness.
6. Honda Crosstour vs Competitors
In the competitive landscape of mid-size crossovers, the Honda Crosstour faced stiff competition from vehicles like the Toyota Venza, Subaru Outback, and Ford Edge. While each of these vehicles has its strengths, the Crosstour’s unique design and combination of comfort and utility set it apart in some ways.
| Feature | Honda Crosstour | Toyota Venza | Subaru Outback | Ford Edge |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.4L I4, 3.5L V6 | 2.5L I4, 3.5L V6 | 2.5L I4, 3.6L V6 | 2.0L I4, 2.7L V6 |
| Cargo Space (Seats Down) | 51.3 cubic feet | 70.0 cubic feet | 75.7 cubic feet | 73.4 cubic feet |
| Safety Features | Advanced airbags, stability control | Lane Departure Alert, Adaptive Cruise | Symmetrical AWD, EyeSight | Blind-spot monitoring, Collision warning |
| Fuel Economy (MPG) | 17-29 | 19-27 | 22-33 | 20-29 |
Though the Subaru Outback leads in cargo capacity and fuel efficiency, the Honda Crosstour delivers a more sedan-like driving experience and premium features that are attractive to many buyers.
7. Owner Feedback and Insights
For many owners, the Honda Crosstour continues to deliver a satisfying ownership experience. Positive feedback typically highlights its comfort, reliability, and smooth ride quality, while common concerns include its unconventional design and relatively small cargo space compared to its competitors.
Pros:
- Comfortable and smooth ride
- Strong engine performance
- Spacious interior for passengers
Cons:
- Polarizing exterior design
- Limited cargo space
- Higher maintenance costs for older models
8. Maintenance and Reliability
The Honda Crosstour is generally regarded as a reliable vehicle, thanks to Honda’s reputation for producing durable cars. However, like all vehicles, it’s not without its issues. Owners of used Honda Crosstour models should be aware of potential problems, including transmission issues in earlier models and occasional suspension noise.
For the most part, routine maintenance, including oil changes, brake pad replacements, and tire rotations, is required to keep the Crosstour running smoothly.
9. Should You Consider a Used Honda Crosstour?
While the Honda Crosstour is no longer in production, it remains a compelling choice for used car buyers. Its affordability compared to newer crossovers, combined with its spacious and comfortable interior, makes it an excellent option for those looking for a reliable and versatile vehicle.
For drivers who don’t mind its unconventional design and are looking for a high-quality vehicle at an affordable price, the Honda Crosstour is still worth considering.
10. Conclusion
The Honda Crosstour may no longer be in production, but it remains an outstanding option for those in the used car market. Its blend of performance, comfort, and versatility makes it a great choice for families, adventure seekers, and anyone looking for a reliable crossover. Despite some criticisms, the Crosstour’s legacy endures as a vehicle that combines the best aspects of both sedans and SUVs, offering a unique alternative to the conventional offerings in its class.
In conclusion, whether you’re considering a used Honda Crosstour for its spacious interior, smooth ride, or standout design, it’s still a vehicle that can elevate your driving experience.
