Considering the crossover market is incredibly saturated, there is a ton of stiff competition. So, for a vehicle to make the list of best crossover SUVs, it has to be more than just a little special. The chassis of one of these vehicles is based on a car. Therefore, it is generally a little easier to drive, maneuver and park than other SUVs.
Crossovers can offer seating for up to eight, but most are five-passenger vehicles. They have ample cargo space and either come standard as fo... (full review continues below)
Considering the crossover market is incredibly saturated, there is a ton of stiff competition. So, for a vehicle to make the list of best crossover SUVs, it has to be more than just a little special. The chassis of one of these vehicles is based on a car. Therefore, it is generally a little easier to drive, maneuver and park than other SUVs.
Crossovers can offer seating for up to eight, but most are five-passenger vehicles. They have ample cargo space and either come standard as four-wheel drive or else four-wheel drive or all-wheel drive are available. They are typically good for a little off-road use, but not necessarily reliable if you get really deep in mud, or if you travel over rough terrain.
The 2012 Audi Q3 starts the list of best crossover SUVs, offering four different engine options and two different very advanced gear boxes. The exterior gives the illusion of a beefed up hatchback while the cabin is superb, and clearly designed around the driver with ergonomic efficiency.
The 2013 Ford Escape is next; one that has been a popular pick for a few years. The standard 2.5-liter engine is lively, strong and fuel efficient, returning a combined average of 25 mpg. Seating for five is offered with plenty of room to spare, and there is 68.1 cubic feet behind the front seat.
Another one of the best crossover SUVs is the 2012 Infiniti Ex35. A versatile hatchback design, luxurious cabin, "Good" crash test ratings and phenomenal braking abilities are just a few highlights of this fantastic vehicle. The EX35 offers above-average handling and the 297 horsepower V6 can accelerate zero to 60 mph in about 6 seconds.
The 2012 Toyota RAV4 is certainly a vehicle that has it all. It gives you a comfortable ride, strong power, responsive handling and practical cabin. Seating for five is standard, but there is an optional third row seat that will accommodate small children.
Next on the list of best crossover SUVs is the 2012 Acura MDX. A surprisingly roomy third row is a definite highlight of this sophisticated looking vehicle. Its 3.7-liter V6 delivers 300 horsepower and can safely tow up to 5,000 pounds.
With its elegant exterior styling and luxurious cabin, it is easy to see why 2013 Buick Enclave is also a preferred pick. It receives Buick's IntelliLink electronics interface for this model year as well as a refined suspension; as if the 2012 model didn't already deliver a smooth enough ride!
Next is the 2013 Lexus RX 350, one of the most stunning crossovers on the market. In addition to its good looks, it offers a plush ride, good fuel economy, fantastic braking abilities, exceptional crash test ratings and more standard and optional features than one could ever hope for.
With its spacious and adjustable backseat, comfortable ride and creative storage spaces, it only makes sense that the 2013 Chevrolet Equinox would be one of the best crossover SUVs. It happens to also be a preferred pick for a family hauler as well. This model year brings plenty of new options too, including a rear seat entertainment system and a revised touchscreen interface.
The 2013 BMW X1 offers two strong engines with both returning impressive fuel economy. Despite its sedan-like styling, this all-new vehicle offers a surprising amount of space. The X1 delivers a harmonic balance of high-speed stability and low speed ride comfort.
Last but certainly not least is the 2013 Honda CR-V. It's loaded with a ton of thoughtful family friendly amenities and top crash test scores. Best of all, its fuel-efficient four-cylinder returns 23 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway.
Since the market is so saturated with these vehicles, there are a few others that didn't make the list of best crossover SUVs, but certainly deserve an honorable mention. These include 2012 models of the Cadillac SRX, Mazda CX-9, Infiniti FX, Toyota Highlander and Mercedes-Benz R-Class, as well as 2013 models of the Volvo XC60, Hyundai Santa Fe, BMW X3, Mazda CX-5 and Ford Edge.