Crossover cars, considered a hybrid between two very different disciplines in car manufacturing are becoming increasingly popular. SUV are renowned for their environmentally damaging attributes, which eco-friendly consumers refer to as gas guzzlers. The crossover favours the atheistically dominant features that a typical SUV possesses, however the drivability of a crossover is similar to that of a car. With better handling, a much more efficient engine and independent rear suspension, the crossover is soon to be a preferred choice over the SUV.
The new Mitsubishi ASX combines high ground clearance, high seating and all-wheel drive capability found in that of an SUV. Although some crossovers can handle minor off-road excursions most are not designing for that purpose.
The term crossover originated in America, which was primarily used as a marketing phrase to sell vehicles, but this went from a coined phrase to a name given to a new breed of automobile.
Over time consumers began to learn the striking differences between an SUV and a crossover. Many consumers embraced the idea behind the hybrid of two different concepts in vehicle design, driving a car that looked like an SUV appealed too many.
As popularity of the crossover grew from 2008, manufacturers began to produce prioritised models. BMW’s X6 was a perfect example of what a crossover is, other manufacturers however, produced vehicles that resembled more of a Sport Utility Vehicle than a crossover. Many eco-friendly consumers where labelling the crossover as a suitable alternative to the SUV, due to the fact they have better petrol mileage to the gallon while still being able to train the style of the bigger 4×4 machines.
Hybrid models are slowly starting to appear in the market, Ford have released their Escape hybrid which has had exceptional fuels about its high MPG and ability to act in the way a larger vehicle should do.
The spacious interior design and lower emissions that comes with a crossover are key selling points to a typical family that are aware of their carbon foot print.
Many Crossovers are available to this day; like the larger full sized crossovers such as the Audi Q7 or the Mercedes-Benz GL Class prefer to offer luxurious space. Whereas the Nissan Juke or the Honda CR-V concentrate on being more compact, sport type looking crossovers. Personally I would have no problem driving a Nissan Juke in West London, its agile and responsive engine would be ideal for an urban environment. However, a Subaru Outback would be challenging to drive on the cold cobbles on the London streets. Crossovers have only been about for the last 3 years, so it is interesting to see how technological advances will affect the future development, design and drivability of these hybrid vehicles in the future.
www.wlmg.co.uk/nissan/new-cars/view/416/Nissan-Juke
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