Honda is a strong contender in a few different segments of the SUV market. This manufacturer’s vehicles have already been known for building dependable vehicles that seem to just run forever. This is something that can be seen if you look at how many surprisingly old Honda Accords there are on the road still. Their craftsmanship, simple but attractive styling and affordable pricing have carried over in their SUVS, making them vehicles nearly anyone can appreciated.
First in the ... (full review continues below)
Honda is a strong contender in a few different segments of the SUV market. This manufacturer’s vehicles have already been known for building dependable vehicles that seem to just run forever. This is something that can be seen if you look at how many surprisingly old Honda Accords there are on the road still. Their craftsmanship, simple but attractive styling and affordable pricing have carried over in their SUVS, making them vehicles nearly anyone can appreciated.
First in the lineup is the super sporty 2013 Crosstour. Some may also know this vehicle as the Accord Crosstour, which was the name for 2010 and 2011. There are two available engines for 2013. The EX and EX-L models get a fuel-efficient 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, but many drivers will want the very spirited 278 horsepower 3.5-liter V6 engine.
This wagon-like crossover boasts an athletic stance with a streamlined tailgate, and 2013 brings a new front bumper and grille, as well as 18-inch alloy wheels on the V6 model. Inside, Crosstour has a ton of technology features, with striking sapphire blue ambient lighting. All V6 models get a push button start/stop engine while HondaLink is on the V6 and EX-L models. This system provides quick and easy access to your various media programs, like Pandora and SMS text message function.
Next in the lineup is the 2013 CR-V, which has one of the boldest and most aggressive looks in this segment, since its 2012 makeover. It competes with Hyundai Santa Fe Sport, Mazda CX-5, Chevrolet Equinox and Ford Escape, but with exceptional fuel economy, perfect crash test ratings and a starting MSRP of $22,695, it really is in a league of its own.
Honda CR-V can be equipped with all-wheel drive in any of its LX, EX and EX-L trims. Even as a base model, LX comes nicely loaded. It has power accessories, Pandora interface, USB port, rearview camera, steering wheel audio controls and a 6-inch multi-information display. Some of these features would be expensive add-ons with some of the competition. EX bumps the wheels to 17 inches and adds on rear privacy glass, ungraded sound system and sunroof. As a top-of-the-line vehicle, EX-L gives you a rear entertainment system, navigation system, roof rails, leather upholstery and seven-speaker sound system.
Although CR-V does not look all that spacious from the outside, looks are very deceiving in this case. Not only is seating for five very generous, it grants a total cargo capacity of 70.9 cubic feet behind the front seat. An auto-fold feature makes it easy for you to access this cargo space as well.
Rounding out the lineup is the very popular Honda Pilot. It may not be as sporty looking as the other Honda SUVs, but it sure has a lot to offer. Flat-folding second and third row seats make it easy to access the cargo space you need in hurry, and a strong V6 engine means you have plenty of acceleration and passing power on the road. Plus, although this vehicle appears large and bulky, it handles like a dream. An extremely polite turning circle of only 37.9 cubic feet allows you to park in those tight squeezes that most SUVs would only dream about occupying.
Pilot comes in LX, EX, EX-L and Touring trims. Even the nicely loaded Touring trim only has an MSRP of $39,570, which is why it is easy to see how it has become such a popular pick against the Ford Flex, Mazda CX-9 and Chevy Traverse.