Crossover is a type of vehicle with a unibody frame configuration. It is a kind of sport utility vehicle and usually come as crossover utility vehicles (CUV) and crossover SUVs.

Basic facts about crossovers

Like pickup trucks, crossovers do not have separate passenger and cargo areas both share a single platform. This fact led them to be termed as “car-based SUVs”. In comparison to truck-based SUVs, crossovers have a morecomfortable interior, less manufacturing cost, more efficient fuel economy, and a more comfortable drive. Its label of “sport utility vehicle” is being questioned due to its poor off-road capabilities and four-wheel and all-wheel drive deficiencies. This leads crossovers to be known as “Pseudo-SUVs”.

Categories of Crossovers based on size

  1. Subcompact crossover SUV

It is also known as a B-segment crossover SUV. Subcompact crossovers have a subcompact passenger car configuration, but some high-end trims also come with a C-segment platform.The length dimension of this category comes under 173.2 inches. This category is highly renowned in Brazil, India, and Europe where it accounts for 69, 75, and 37% of total sales of SUVs respectively. Examples include Honda HR-V, Volkswagen T-Roc, and Mercedes Benz GLA-class.

  1. Compact crossover SUV

It is also called C-segment crossover SUV, having a compact-car platform. The length dimension of this category comes between 169.3 in and 185 in. Crossovers under this category come in various interior designs. Some have 3-row seating and some have 2-row seating. Outside North America, this category is also labeled as “mid-size SUV” or “mid-size crossover”. Examples include Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, and Infiniti QX50.

  1. Mid-size crossover SUV

This type of crossover has a D-segment configuration. BMW X5 was the first-ever mid-size crossover. This dimension length of this category comes between 185 in and 200 in. It is mostly seen on roads of China and North America. Such crossover range comes with 2 or 3-row seating. Examples include Honda Passport, Ford Edge, and Toyota Highlander.

  1. Full-size crossover SUV

It is the largest category of crossovers that comes with 3-row seating. The length dimension of this category exceeds 200 in. In Australia, it is classified as an upper or extra-large SUV. Examples include GMC Acadia, Buick Enclave, and Saturn Outlook.

Categories of Crossover based on body Styles

  1. Three-door crossover

Just like 3-door SUVs, 3-door crossovers are also very rarer. This category has almost disappeared now. This body styles include a pair of doors one on each side and a tailgate. Examples include Honda HRV, Toyota RAV4, and Range Rover Evoque.

  1. Coupé crossover

Crossover SUVs having sloping back rooflines are termed as “Coupé crossover”. This category has 5 doors and its sloping roofline resembles liftbacks or fastbacks. Some people consider it as less practical as compared to other crossovers, because a sloping roofline lessens the cargo area. Examples include Audi Q3 Sportback, Renault Arkana, and Acura ZDX.

  1. Convertible crossover

Automobile companies are massively manufacturing convertible crossovers. But this category received much criticism due to its low practicality and high price. Examples include Toyota RAV4 convertible, Nissan Murano CrossCabriolet, and Range Rover Evoque convertible.

 

Top luxurious Crossovers

  1. Mercedes Benz GLE class

In the mid-size crossover lineup, the Mercedes Benz GLE class holds the top rank. It scores 8.5/10. It gives a quiet and comfortable ride with a jaw-dropping interior. It comes with 5 engines options.

Features

  • MPG: 15-21 in city and 19-26 on highway
  • All-wheel drive and Rear-wheel drive drivetrain
  • 255-263 horsepower

Pros

  • Strong engine performance
  • Poised handling and ride
  • Spacious cabin
  • High-quality interior material
  • The high tech infotainment system

Cons

  • Sung optional seating at the third row

 

Price

  • Its price ranges $54000-$160000.

 

  1. BMW X3

In compact SUV crossovers, BMW X3 holds the top rank. It is preferred for its roomy interior and convenient features. It scores 8.5/10. It provides seating for up to 5 passengers and a wide cargo area.

Features

  • MPG: 14-25 in city and 19-29 on highway
  • All-wheel drive and rear-wheel drive drivetrain
  • 180-473 horsepower

Pros

  • Strong engine power
  • Poised handling and ride
  • The high tech infotainment system
  • Spacious cargo and passenger area

Cons

  • In comparison to many rivals, it has a high cost

Price

  • Its price ranges between $43000-$69900.

 

  1. Acura RDX

Acura RDX provides athletic and lively handling, a stylish and high-quality cabin, and an array of standard features. It holds a place near a top-ranked compact SUV. It scores 8.4/10.

Features

  • MPG: 21-22 in city and 26-28 on highway
  • All-wheel drive and front-wheel drive drivetrain.
  • 272 horsepower

Pros

  • Balanced ride
  • Athletic handling
  • Roomy interior
  • Multiple standard features

Cons

  • Lacks engine upgrades
  • The infotainment system is clunky

Price

  • Its ranges between $38400-$51000.

 

  1. Audi e-Tron

It comes near the luxury electric and hybrid SUV rankings. Its refined cabin, balanced ride, and potent powertrain give a tough competition to its rivals. It scores 8.3/10.

Features

  • MPG: 76-78 in city and 77-78 on highway
  • All-wheel drive drivetrain
  • 355 horsepower

Pros

  • Relaxed ride
  • Lively acceleration
  • Upscale interior
  • Well-weighted handling
  • Intuitive infotainment system

Cons

  • Driving range is less than its competitors

Price

  • Its starting price is $65900.

 

  1. Lincoln Aviator

It holds a rank near the top mid-size crossovers. It comes with a powerful V-6 engine, a wide cargo area, high-tech features, a luxurious interior, and a polished ride. It provides seating for up to 6 to 7 passengers.

Features

  • MPG: 17-18 in city and 24-26 on highway
  • All-wheel drive and rear-wheel drive drivetrain
  • 400-494 powertrain

Pros

  • Ride quality is cushy
  • Swift acceleration
  • Luxurious and decent interior
  • Convenient infotainment system
  • Enhanced cargo capacity

Cons

  • The inefficient and costly hybrid system
  • Snug 3rd-row seating

Price

  • Its price ranges between $51465-$87905.

 

  1. Audi Q5

It has multiple engine options and an elegant cabin. In comparison to rivals, it is less sporty. It provides seating for up to 5 passengers. It scores 8.2/10.

Features

  • All-wheel drive drivetrain
  • 248-362 horsepower

Pros

  • Upscale quality of the cabin
  • Intuitive infotainment system
  • Confident handling and well-balanced ride

Cons

  • Mediocre cargo space
  • Base price is high

Price

  • Its price ranges between $44100-$57300.

References

  1. https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crossover_(automobile)#:~:text=A%20crossover%2C%20crossover%20SUV%2C%20or,shared%20with%20a%20pickup%20truck
  2. https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/rankings/luxury-crossover-suvs