The Honda Accord Crosstour: A Blend of Sedan Comfort and SUV Versatility
The Honda Accord Crosstour, initially introduced as the Accord Crosstour, carved out a unique niche in the automotive landscape. This mid-size crossover SUV, produced from 2009 to 2016, offered a compelling blend of the comfort and driving dynamics of the popular Honda Accord sedan with the increased cargo space and versatility of an SUV.
This article delves into the Honda Accord Crosstour, exploring its origins, design, performance, features, and what ultimately led to its discontinuation.
From Sedan to Crossover: The Birth of the Crosstour
The late 2000s witnessed a surge in the popularity of crossover SUVs. Honda, recognizing this shift in consumer preference, decided to leverage the success of the eighth-generation Accord by introducing a crossover variant. The Accord Crosstour was born, aiming to provide those who enjoyed the Accord's driving experience with a more practical option for hauling cargo and passengers.
Design: A Marriage of Styles
The Crosstour's design embodied the marriage of a sedan and an SUV. It shared the Accord's platform, evident in the familiar cabin design and driving position. However, the Crosstour deviated with a raised ride height, a more muscular stance, and a sloping rear roofline that distinguished it from traditional boxy SUVs. This design offered a sportier aesthetic compared to competitors while maintaining ample cargo space thanks to the hatchback configuration.
Performance: Accord DNA with SUV Capability
The Accord Crosstour offered two engine options: a 2.4L I4 engine and a more powerful 3.5L V6 engine. The 2.4L provided a balance of fuel efficiency and adequate power for everyday driving. For those seeking a more spirited driving experience, the 3.5L V6 packed a punch, delivering strong acceleration and confident highway cruising. Both engines were paired with a smooth-shifting automatic transmission, and Honda offered an all-wheel-drive option for enhanced traction in adverse weather conditions.
The Crosstour retained the Accord's well-regarded handling characteristics. The suspension offered a comfortable ride, but with a hint of sportiness that encouraged spirited driving on winding roads. While not designed for serious off-roading, the available all-wheel-drive system provided increased capability when tackling light trails or snowy roads.
Features and Technology
The Accord Crosstour was generously equipped, offering a range of comfort and convenience features. Standard features on most trims included a sunroof, power windows and locks, a multi-speaker sound system with Bluetooth connectivity, and a power driver's seat. Higher trims offered leather upholstery, a navigation system, a rear-seat entertainment system, and a premium sound system.
The Crosstour also incorporated safety features that were advanced for its time. Standard features included anti-lock brakes, traction control, and airbags. Higher trims added features like blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and a rearview camera.
A Niche Not Quite Filled: The Crosstour's Discontinuation
Despite its positive attributes, the Accord Crosstour never achieved the sales success Honda had anticipated. Consumers seeking a traditional SUV experience might have found the Crosstour's sloping roofline to limit cargo space. Conversely, those who preferred a sedan might not have been swayed by the Crossttour's slightly higher price tag and bulkier size compared to the Accord.
Honda ultimately discontinued the Crosstour in 2016. The introduction of the larger and more versatile Honda Pilot, along with the continued popularity of the CR-V, likely played a role in this decision.
Legacy: A Pioneering Crossover
While the Accord Crosstour's time in the market was relatively short-lived, it holds significance for its role in the evolution of the crossover SUV segment. The Crosstour's blend of sedan comfort and SUV functionality paved the way for future Honda crossover models that prioritize both driving dynamics and practicality.
Today, the Honda Accord Crosstour remains a compelling option for those seeking a used crossover SUV that offers a unique combination of comfort, performance, and cargo space. Its comfortable ride, strong engines, and ample features make it a well-rounded choice for everyday driving and occasional adventures.
