2012 Honda Crosstour: Versatility with Utility

The 2012 Honda Crosstour is the more versatile version of the Honda Accord from which it was based.  It offers more utility with roomy seating, quiet and modest cabin, carlike driving dynamics, and the addition of an all-wheel drive.

The most notable feature for the 2012 Honda Crosstour is the addition of an optional four-cylinder engine, which is less expensive and very fuel efficient when compared to the very powerful V6 engine.  All Crosstours also now have rearview camera, automatic headlights, and Bluetooth connectivity along with a standard iPod/USB audio interface.

Being more of a wagon than an SUV, this offers more versatility with plenty of utility targeting shoppers and travellers alike with its 10 cubic feet luggage capacity and quieter cabin.

The 2012 Honda Crosstour has two available trim levels – EX and EX-L.  The EX series showcases the standard 17-inch alloy wheels, fog lamps, automatic headlights, sunroof, power front seats, keyless entry, tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, 60/40 split-folding rear seatback, dual-zone automatic climate control, rearview camera, a seven-speaker audio system that even comes with a six-CD changer, auxiliary audio jack with iPod/USB interface, and a Bluetooth.

The EX-L series, on the other hand, boasts of 18-inch wheels, heated front seats, leather upholstery, cargo cover, driver seat memory functions, auto-dimming rearview mirror, and upgraded sound system with the addition of a satellite radio.  An option would be to add a voice-activated navigation system.

There are two engine options – the 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with 192 hp and 162 lb-ft of torque and the 3.5-liter V6 engine that delivers with 271 hp and 254 lb-ft of torque.  Five- speed automatic transmission is the standard for both trim levels with front-wheel drive.  However, the all-wheel drive is available for the EX-L V6.

 EPA fuel efficiency rating for the four-cylinder is 21 mpg/city, 29 mpg/highway, and 24 mpg/combined and for the V6, 18/27/21 for front-drive and 17/25/20 for all-wheel drive.