First we went crazy for SUVs built on truck platforms, then we fell for crossovers based on car platforms, and now it appears that we’ll go gaga over 4-wheel-drive (4WD) 5-door hatchbacks mimicking sports coupes.
Honda has just introduced the world to the Crosstour while Acura flaunts its wealthier cousin, the ZDX. And one needs look no further than Porsche for inspiration. The Panamera broke the ice on this, the latest performance/recreation iteration to prowl the automotive kingdom.
More than a restyled Accord
Yes, the Crosstour is very much an Accord, bringing with it all the attributes inherent therein. Visually, the nose resembles that of an Accord but that’s pretty much where the similarities end. The Crosstour’s belt line is notably higher than the Accord’s, making it a much taller vehicle overall.
The most dramatic deviation from the Accord resides to the rear of the Crosstour’s four doors. Here it sports a “fast back” style roof, as they were once called. This design feature incorporates a large, opening hatch to provide access to the cargo area behind the rear seats.
And those seats fold flat, creating a cargo-hold of impressive dimension. Set flush into the floor of the cargo area is a rather large handy plastic bin, which can be removed for easy, convenient use.
Controversial lines
When I first saw the Crosstour in the metal, I was slightly taken aback by its shape, which initially appeared bulbous and elongated to me. I have to say though, after spending time in and around Honda’s latest creation, I have come to admire the Crosstour for its unique and distinctive appearance – and I’m not alone.
I watched as a group of hip teens surrounded the Crosstour and went about determining what brand of automobile it was. By their enthusiasm, one would think they had stumbled upon Ferrari’s most recent rolling sculpture. The Crosstour was a hit with them, and it’s received a thumbs-up from my 15-year old know-it-all and his cohorts as well.
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| The most dramatic deviation from the Accord resides to the rear of the Crosstour’s four doors. Here it sports a “fast back” style roof, as they were once called. |
Honda has just introduced the world to the Crosstour while Acura flaunts its wealthier cousin, the ZDX. And one needs look no further than Porsche for inspiration. The Panamera broke the ice on this, the latest performance/recreation iteration to prowl the automotive kingdom.
More than a restyled Accord
Yes, the Crosstour is very much an Accord, bringing with it all the attributes inherent therein. Visually, the nose resembles that of an Accord but that’s pretty much where the similarities end. The Crosstour’s belt line is notably higher than the Accord’s, making it a much taller vehicle overall.
The most dramatic deviation from the Accord resides to the rear of the Crosstour’s four doors. Here it sports a “fast back” style roof, as they were once called. This design feature incorporates a large, opening hatch to provide access to the cargo area behind the rear seats.
And those seats fold flat, creating a cargo-hold of impressive dimension. Set flush into the floor of the cargo area is a rather large handy plastic bin, which can be removed for easy, convenient use.
Controversial lines
When I first saw the Crosstour in the metal, I was slightly taken aback by its shape, which initially appeared bulbous and elongated to me. I have to say though, after spending time in and around Honda’s latest creation, I have come to admire the Crosstour for its unique and distinctive appearance – and I’m not alone.
I watched as a group of hip teens surrounded the Crosstour and went about determining what brand of automobile it was. By their enthusiasm, one would think they had stumbled upon Ferrari’s most recent rolling sculpture. The Crosstour was a hit with them, and it’s received a thumbs-up from my 15-year old know-it-all and his cohorts as well.
 |
| Yes, the Crosstour is very much an Accord, bringing with it all the attributes inherent therein. |