2012 Honda Crosstour Overview

The 2012 Crosstour is Honda's acclaimed Accord but bigger and better. The Crosstour blends thoughtful design with a more rugged persona, which should allow for plenty of adventures both on the road and off.

The Crosstour is available in three trim levels--EX and EX-L in front-wheel drive, and a 4-wheel-drive EX-L. All come powered by an aluminum 271-hp 3.5L V6 that delivers 254 ft-lb of torque and is mated to a 5-speed automatic transmission. The engine benefits from intelligent Variable Valve Timing (i-VTEC) as well as variable cylinder management, two technologies that are designed to deliver fuel efficiency and performance.

The Crosstour's suspension is also based on that of the Accord sedan, with a double wishbone front setup with upper and lower control links and an independent multi-link rear suspension. As a result, the vehicle is both athletic and predictable in nearly every cornering situation. The EX rides on 17-inch alloy wheels, while the EX-L is fitted with 18-inch alloys.

The EX-L offers a real-time 4-wheel-drive system, which means in normal driving conditions, only the front wheels are powered, but it engages when wheel slip is detected, sending power to where it is most needed.

Inside, the Crosstour provides everything one expects from a Honda--enhanced ergonomics, comfortable, supportive seating and high-quality materials. Rear cargo volume with the seat up is nearly 26 cubic feet; with the 60/40 split folding rear down, this increases to just over 51 cubic feet.

Exterior standard amenities on all Crosstours include a one-touch power moonroof, security system, fog lights and halogen headlights, auto on/off headlights, a back-up camera, and rear privacy glass. Inside, all Crosstours benefit from dual-zone automatic climate control, power windows with automatic up/down, steering wheel-mounted audio and cruise controls, power adjustable front seats, a 360-watt 6-disc in-dash CD 7-speaker stereo, three 12-volt power outlets, Bluetooth hands-free connectivity, and USB audio interface.

The EX-L also gets leather trim, HomeLink, heated front seats, premium speakers, and satellite radio.

Optional accessories include various roof-mount gear carriers, as well as a back-up sensor and remote engine start, while Satellite-Linked Navigation with Voice Recognition is available on both EX-L models.

Like all Honda vehicles, the manufacturer has placed a strong emphasis on safety. Standard features include stability and traction control, 4-wheel anti-lock brakes, a tire-pressure monitor, active head restraints and front, front-side and side curtain airbags.

2012 Honda Crosstour Model Changes

The Honda Crosstour carries into 2012 with only minimal changes. Among them, Honda has dropped "Accord" from the car's name. EX models now feature standard auto on/off headlights, a back-up camera, Bluetooth, and USB audio interface. New exterior paint colors include Twilight Blue Metallic and Basque Red Pearl, which replace Glacier Blue Metallic and Tango Red Pearl.

2012 Honda Crosstour Value

The 2012 Honda Crosstour perfectly incorporates all the excellent features of the Accord sedan and coupe with the versatility of a vehicle designed for hauling. With raised ground clearance and available 4-wheel-drive, the Crosstour is a fresh alternative to the all-wheel-drive models from Subaru and the Toyota Venza.

2012 Honda Crosstour Strengths

Bold, sporty design; lots of built-in utility; strong performance from V6; available all-wheel drive