The compact crossover market is growing at an almost alarming rate. What was once a niche product is now a must-have model in every lineup. Trendy isn’t even the right word here because we feel like it’s going to be more than just a passing fad, these functional well-proportioned vehicles are here to stay.
With a bevy of compact crossovers to choose from, we decided to look at the “Other Guys;” the ones you might not consider because of quirky looks or a possibly-too-small trunk. We wanted to see how these AWD compact crossover outsiders stacked up against one another on snowy country roads on a cold, February day. Some might see the results as predictable once they know the lineup, but our group were surprised by a few of the players and their final placement.
From cornering on slick, snow-covered roads to fitting a stroller in the back and an unscientific 0-25m AWD acceleration test on a questionably icy surface, our compact crossover alternatives did their very best to impress, no matter what we threw their way. And with the marked absence of the Jeep Compass, we saw one vehicle rise to the top of the pack almost immediately, while the others scrambled to hold ground for second and third, while the remainder lagged behind without a chance.
Of course, all six vehicles on our comparison drive were equipped with winter tires (six different brands/types), and each had available AWD. All sported automatic transmissions and half featured turbocharged powerplants. The same baby seat and stroller were mounted in each vehicle for consistency.
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| Some might see the results as predictable once they know the lineup, but our group were surprised by a few of the players and their final placement. (Photo: Sébastien D'Amour) |
With a bevy of compact crossovers to choose from, we decided to look at the “Other Guys;” the ones you might not consider because of quirky looks or a possibly-too-small trunk. We wanted to see how these AWD compact crossover outsiders stacked up against one another on snowy country roads on a cold, February day. Some might see the results as predictable once they know the lineup, but our group were surprised by a few of the players and their final placement.
From cornering on slick, snow-covered roads to fitting a stroller in the back and an unscientific 0-25m AWD acceleration test on a questionably icy surface, our compact crossover alternatives did their very best to impress, no matter what we threw their way. And with the marked absence of the Jeep Compass, we saw one vehicle rise to the top of the pack almost immediately, while the others scrambled to hold ground for second and third, while the remainder lagged behind without a chance.
Of course, all six vehicles on our comparison drive were equipped with winter tires (six different brands/types), and each had available AWD. All sported automatic transmissions and half featured turbocharged powerplants. The same baby seat and stroller were mounted in each vehicle for consistency.
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| Photo: Sébastien D'Amour |