The Crosstour is a crossover wagon that’s trying too hard to multitask. It’s intended to be a blend of a sedan and an SUV, but it really doesn’t succeed at doing either well.
Though this Honda is based on the previous-generation Accord, it doesn’t deliver the handling of a sedan. Its hatchback design gives it more versatility than a sedan, but the vehicle’s love-it-or-hate-it styling, with its dramatically sloping roof, compromises cargo capacity and results in huge blind spots in the rear corners. With the rear seatbacks folded down, we measured rectangular cargo volume at just 22 cubic feet, which is less than that of many small SUVs.
Yes, the Crosstour has its strong points. The 278-hp V6 in our all-wheel-drive EX-L test vehicle is lively, smooth, and responsive, and it’s mated to a new six-speed automatic transmission that shifts seamlessly. The ride is compliant, and the roomy interior provides comfortable seating. A four-cylinder engine is also available, but only with a five-speed automatic and front-wheel drive.
A freshening for 2013 turned out to be a mixed bag. On the plus side, fuel economy improved slightly to 21 mpg, which is about par for this class. Advanced safety systems, such as lane-departure and forward-collision warnings, became available, and a backup camera is standard.
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