Automotive
In the face of the global financial crisis that battered the automotive industry, Honda demonstrated remarkable resilience by launching the five-door Accord Crosstour in 2008. This move marked a significant expansion for the venerable Accord lineup, which had begun its journey in 1976 as a humble hatchback before evolving into one of America’s most successful midsize sedans with the addition of the Sedan variant.
The Crosstour represented Honda’s strategic foray into the burgeoning crossover market, positioning itself between the compact CR-V and the larger Pilot. Designed with a higher ride height and optional all-wheel drive, the vehicle aimed to offer a unique blend of practicality and versatility. However, market conditions proved unfavorable, leading to disappointing sales figures. In response, Honda made the decision to detach the Accord badge for the 2012 model year, renaming it simply as the Crosstour. Ultimately, production ceased in 2015.
Stylistically, the 2009 Crosstour maintained familial ties to the Accord range with its front-end design. Characterized by rectangular headlights that swept back at the edges, flanking a prominent grille with the Honda emblem at its center, the front fascia exuded a crossover-inspired aesthetic. Below, an inverted trapezoidal air intake and fog lamp-equipped side scoops added to the vehicle’s rugged appearance.
The profile presented a more contentious design, with tall lower body panels and a fastback-style greenhouse creating an unconventional silhouette. Side character lines, reminiscent of the coupe variant, mysteriously disappeared midway along the rear doors. The rear end, however, proved to be the most captivating feature, boasting a tall stance with upward-sloping rear side windows that terminated at a sharp angle aligned with the driver’s eye level. A sloping tailgate showcased a horizontal spoiler integrating the third brake light, while corner-mounted taillights adorned the rear quarters.
Inside, the Crosstour shared the Accord’s design philosophy. The driver faced a rounded instrument cluster dominated by large speedometer and tachometer dials, flanked by temperature and fuel gauges. An eight-inch color display for the infotainment system resided above the center stack, offering optional DVD-based navigation. The cabin featured a plethora of logically arranged buttons and switches, while distinguishing itself from other Accord variants with elevated front seats featuring light bolstering. Rear passengers enjoyed ample headroom despite the sloping roofline, and a 60/40-split folding bench seat provided flexible cargo space.
Under the hood, buyers could choose between two powertrain options: a 2.4-liter inline-four or a 3.5-liter V6, both mated to a five-speed automatic transmission. Initially, front-wheel drive was standard with the smaller engine, while the V6 variant offered all-wheel drive as an option.
