Honda is trying hard to promote its new 2010 Accord Crosstour… too hard. The Japanese automaker decided to introduce the world to its new Accord-based crossover via Facebook, where through a free and democratic process people decided it was ugly. And because it is Facebook, people didn’t hold back on their comments.

Then what became a bad situation got much worse after Honda deleted several posts, one of which was even a positive comment. That comment, however, came from a Honda product planner who did not identify himself as such, and in doing so went against company policy.

Honda then admitted that the initial photos they released were not all that good and said that they didn’t show the car favorably. Which makes one wonder why they chose the photos in the first place.

Now Honda has released four new photos of the 2010 Accord Crosstour, in different locations, and in red, to hopefully change people’s minds. It does look slightly better proportioned to us and we have to admit that there are many vehicles that look much better in person than on paper. Then again, Honda’s and Acura’s design teams haven’t exactly been on a roll as of late.

GALLERY: 2010 Accord Crosstour

Honda has officially revealed the 2010 Accord Crosstour Crossover Utility Vehicle (CUV), which will go on sale this Fall, competing head-to-head with vehicles like the Toyota Venza.

“Our concept is to broaden the appeal of the Accord line-up by leveraging traditional Accord strengths of fun-to-drive performance and handling while also adapting to dramatic shifts in the light truck marketplace,” said Erik Berkman, VP of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. “The Accord Crosstour accomplishes that by offering a modern interpretation of a CUV while integrating the refinement and efficiency of a premium sedan.”

“We know SUV buyers like the commanding view of the road that comes with a high eye-point and like the comforts of living with an SUV. This vehicle meets the needs of buyers looking for those attributes yet at the same time want an image that is different from a conventional SUV.”

Honda has yet to release specifications on the model but the Crosstour will be positioned as the highest level Accord and will likely cost a $2,000 premium over sedan models. Honda promises sporty Accord-like driving dynamics along with all the advantages of a crossover, like an excellent view of the road, AWD and plenty of cargo room.

GALLERY: 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour

Official release: