2013 Honda Crosstour: A Detailed Overview
The 2013 Honda Crosstour is a unique offering in the automotive landscape, blending the practicality of an SUV with the driving dynamics of a car. It aimed to provide a versatile and comfortable experience for those who found traditional SUVs too cumbersome and sedans lacking in cargo flexibility. For 2013, the Crosstour received a significant refresh, including styling updates and improved features, making it a more compelling option.
Highlights
The 2013 Honda Crosstour boasts several key attributes that set it apart:
- Engine Performance:
- 2.4L i-VTEC 4-Cylinder (FWD models): This engine offered a balance of fuel efficiency and adequate power for daily driving. It was the standard engine on lower trims and was well-suited for city commuting and lighter loads.
- 3.5L i-VTEC V6 (EX-L V6 and Touring models): The more potent V6 provided considerably more grunt, making acceleration quicker and highway merging more effortless. This engine was paired with Honda's Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) system, which could shut down cylinders under light loads to improve fuel economy.
- Safety Features: Honda is renowned for its commitment to safety, and the 2013 Crosstour was no exception. Key safety features included:
- Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) with Traction Control: This system helps prevent loss of traction during cornering or acceleration on slippery surfaces by automatically applying brakes and reducing engine power when it detects a deviation from the intended path.
- Antilock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD): ABS prevents wheel lock-up during braking, allowing the driver to maintain steering control. EBD intelligently distributes brake force between the front and rear wheels based on load and braking conditions, optimizing stopping power.
- Brake Assist: This feature automatically applies maximum braking force when it detects a panic braking situation, helping to shorten stopping distances.
- Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) Body Structure: Honda's ACE design utilizes a network of front-facing structural elements to absorb and redirect crash energy away from the passenger cabin, improving occupant protection in frontal collisions.
- Multiple Airbags: A comprehensive suite of airbags, including front, front side, and side curtain airbags, provided enhanced protection for occupants in various crash scenarios.
- Trim Summary: The 2013 Crosstour was available in distinct trims, each offering a progressively more luxurious and feature-rich experience:
- LX: The entry-level trim provided essential comfort and convenience features, making it a practical choice for budget-conscious buyers.
- EX: Stepping up to the EX added desirable amenities such as a power driver's seat, a rearview camera, and an upgraded audio system.
- EX-L: This trim further enhanced the interior with leather-trimmed seating, heated front seats, and dual-zone automatic climate control, offering a more premium feel.
- EX-L V6: Building upon the EX-L, this trim included the more powerful 3.5-liter V6 engine and the option of Honda's Real Time AWD system for improved traction in various conditions.
- Touring: The top-tier Touring model was equipped with the V6 engine, a navigation system, premium audio, and Honda's advanced voice recognition technology, representing the pinnacle of Crosstour luxury and convenience.
- Other Notable Aspects:
- Unique Crossover Design: The Crosstour's distinctive styling, with its wagon-like profile and raised ride height, offered a different aesthetic than traditional SUVs.
- Versatile Cargo Area: Beneath its sloping rear, the Crosstour offered a flexible cargo space with a hidden sub-floor storage compartment, providing secure and discreet storage solutions.
- Comfortable Ride: The Crosstour generally provided a comfortable and composed ride, absorbing road imperfections well, making it suitable for longer journeys.
- Available All-Wheel Drive (AWD): Honda's Real Time AWD system was available on V6 models, enhancing grip and stability, particularly in inclement weather.
What to Expect
Owning a 2013 Honda Crosstour typically translates to a reliable and straightforward ownership experience, characteristic of the Honda brand.
- Typical Ownership Experience: Owners generally report a positive experience with the Crosstour, appreciating its comfortable ride, practical interior, and user-friendly technology. It's often seen as a sensible choice for families or individuals who need more versatility than a sedan but don't want the bulk of a larger SUV. The driving dynamics are often praised for being more car-like than many crossovers, contributing to a more engaging driving experience.
- Maintenance: As a Honda, the Crosstour is expected to have relatively low maintenance costs and good long-term reliability. Routine maintenance such as oil changes, tire rotations, and brake inspections will be standard. Honda's have a reputation for readily available and reasonably priced parts. Following the recommended maintenance schedule outlined in the owner's manual will be crucial for preserving its longevity.
- Insurance: Insurance costs for the 2013 Crosstour are generally expected to be moderate. Premiums will vary based on factors such as your driving record, location, age, coverage levels, and the specific trim of the Crosstour you choose. Its safety features and overall reliability can sometimes contribute to slightly lower insurance premiums compared to vehicles with poorer safety ratings or higher theft rates.
Potential Considerations
While the 2013 Honda Crosstour offers many advantages, prospective buyers should be aware of a few potential drawbacks:
- Rear Visibility: The Crosstour's unique styling, particularly its sloping rear window and thick C-pillars, can compromise rearward visibility. This can make parking and maneuvering in tight spaces more challenging, even with the inclusion of a rearview camera on higher trims.
- Styling is Divisive: The Crosstour's exterior design is a departure from conventional SUV or wagon styling. While some appreciate its distinctiveness, others find it to be an unusual or unattractive combination of features. This subjective element means potential buyers should ensure they are comfortable with its aesthetic.
- Cargo Space Limitations Compared to Traditional SUVs: While the Crosstour offers decent cargo volume and a flexible layout, it doesn't match the sheer bulk of cargo space found in larger, boxier SUVs. For those who regularly haul very large items or require maximum cubic footage, a more traditional SUV might be a better fit.
- Less Engaging for Enthusiast Drivers: While its driving dynamics are praised for being car-like, the Crosstour is not designed to be a sporty or performance-oriented vehicle. For drivers seeking sharp handling and exhilarating acceleration, other options might be more appealing.
- Infotainment System dated by current standards: While functional for its time, the infotainment system in the 2013 Crosstour might feel dated compared to the touchscreens and advanced connectivity features found in newer vehicles.
Overall Summary
The 2013 Honda Crosstour stands as a competent and practical crossover that successfully merges the attributes of a car and an SUV. It offers a comfortable ride, a versatile interior with intelligent storage solutions, and the peace of mind that comes with Honda's reputation for reliability and safety. While its distinctive styling may not appeal to everyone, and its rear visibility can be a minor concern, the Crosstour presents a compelling option for those seeking a well-rounded vehicle that can adapt to a variety of lifestyle needs. It's a sensible choice for families or individuals who value practicality, comfort, and dependable performance.