What Is The Best Crossover To Buy

So, you're in the market for a crossover. Excellent choice! Crossovers offer a sweet spot between the practicality of an SUV and the maneuverability of a sedan. But with so many options, how do you pick the best one? The answer, as always in the automotive world, is: it depends. It depends on your needs, your budget, and what you prioritize in a vehicle. This isn't a "top 10 list" – instead, we'll break down the key considerations and specifications that'll help you determine your best crossover.

Understanding Your Crossover Needs

Before diving into specific models, let's define what a crossover *is* and what factors you need to consider. A crossover, technically, is a vehicle built on a unibody platform, meaning the body and frame are a single, integrated structure. This contrasts with older body-on-frame SUVs. Crossovers are generally lighter, more fuel-efficient, and handle better than traditional SUVs.

Key Considerations:

Budget: Obvious, but crucial. Factor in not just the initial purchase price, but also insurance, fuel costs, maintenance, and potential repairs.
Size: Crossovers come in various sizes, from subcompact to mid-size. Consider passenger capacity, cargo space, and your parking situation. Do you regularly haul a family of five? Or is it just you and maybe a dog?
Fuel Efficiency: Important for long-term cost savings. Look at the EPA ratings and remember that real-world mileage can vary. Hybrid or plug-in hybrid options can significantly improve fuel economy.
All-Wheel Drive (AWD): Do you need it? AWD provides better traction in snow, ice, and off-road conditions. If you live in a region with harsh winters or plan on doing some light off-roading, it's a worthwhile investment. If you live in a dry climate with well-maintained roads, front-wheel drive (FWD) is often sufficient. Note that AWD generally reduces fuel economy slightly.
Features: Prioritize the features that are important to you. This might include advanced safety features (lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking), infotainment system (Apple CarPlay, Android Auto), comfort features (heated seats, sunroof), and driver-assistance technologies (adaptive cruise control, parking assist).
Reliability: Research the reliability ratings of different models. Check Consumer Reports, J.D. Power, and online forums for owner reviews. A reliable vehicle will save you money and headaches in the long run.

Key Specs and Main Parts

Let's delve into some of the key specifications that differentiate crossovers.

Engine:

The engine is the heart of the vehicle. Crossovers typically offer a range of engine options, from fuel-efficient 4-cylinder engines to more powerful V6 engines. Turbocharging is increasingly common, allowing smaller engines to produce more power.

For example, a 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder might produce similar horsepower and torque to a naturally aspirated 3.5L V6, but with better fuel economy.

Important specs include:

Displacement: Measured in liters (L) or cubic inches (ci), this indicates the total volume of the engine's cylinders. Larger displacement generally translates to more power.
Horsepower (hp): A measure of the engine's power output. Higher horsepower generally means quicker acceleration and better performance at higher speeds.
Torque (lb-ft): A measure of the engine's rotational force. Higher torque generally means better low-end acceleration and towing capability.

Transmission:

The transmission transfers power from the engine to the wheels. Crossovers typically use automatic transmissions, although some may offer manual transmissions. Continuously Variable Transmissions (CVTs) are becoming increasingly common due to their fuel efficiency. However, some drivers find their driving feel less engaging than traditional automatic transmissions.

Suspension:

The suspension system controls the vehicle's ride and handling. Crossovers typically use independent suspension systems for both the front and rear wheels, which provide a more comfortable and controlled ride. Key components include:

Struts/Shocks: Dampen vibrations and control suspension movement.
Springs: Support the vehicle's weight and absorb impacts.
Control Arms: Connect the wheels to the vehicle's frame and allow for suspension movement.
Sway Bars (Anti-Roll Bars): Reduce body roll during cornering.

Brakes:

The braking system is crucial for safety. Crossovers typically use disc brakes on all four wheels, which provide superior stopping power compared to drum brakes. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard, preventing the wheels from locking up during hard braking. Other advanced braking features include Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Brake Assist.

Safety Systems:

Modern crossovers are packed with safety features. These include:

Airbags: Front, side, and curtain airbags provide protection in the event of a collision.
Electronic Stability Control (ESC): Helps prevent skidding and loss of control.
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS): Prevents the wheels from locking up during hard braking.
Lane Departure Warning (LDW): Alerts the driver if the vehicle is drifting out of its lane.
Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB): Automatically applies the brakes to prevent or mitigate a collision.
Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM): Alerts the driver if there is a vehicle in their blind spot.

How It Works (Simplified Drivetrain)

Let's trace the flow of power in a typical crossover, assuming it's an AWD model:

The engine generates power through combustion.
The power is transferred to the transmission, which selects the appropriate gear ratio based on speed and load.
From the transmission, the power goes to the transfer case (in AWD models). The transfer case splits the power between the front and rear axles. In some systems, this split is fixed, while in others, it's variable and controlled by an electronic system.
The power then travels through the driveshafts to the front and rear differentials.
The differentials allow the wheels on each axle to rotate at different speeds, which is necessary when turning.
Finally, the power reaches the wheels, propelling the vehicle forward.

Real-World Use – Basic Troubleshooting Tips

While deep-dive troubleshooting requires specialized tools and knowledge, here are a few basic things you can check:

Rough Idling/Poor Performance: Could be a variety of issues. Start by checking the air filter, spark plugs, and fuel injectors. A diagnostic scan tool can help identify specific problems.
Braking Issues: Squealing brakes usually indicate worn brake pads. A vibrating steering wheel during braking could indicate warped rotors.
Suspension Noises: Clunking or squeaking noises from the suspension could indicate worn bushings, ball joints, or struts.
Check Engine Light: Don't ignore it! Have the code read at an auto parts store or repair shop. The code will provide valuable information about the problem.

Safety – Highlight Risky Components

Working on your crossover can be rewarding, but safety should always be your top priority. Here are some potentially risky components:

High-Voltage Systems (Hybrids/Electric): Exercise extreme caution when working on hybrid or electric vehicles. High-voltage systems can be lethal. Always disconnect the high-voltage battery before performing any work.
Airbag System: Airbags can deploy unexpectedly, causing serious injury. Always disconnect the battery and wait at least 10 minutes before working on the airbag system.
Fuel System: Gasoline is highly flammable. Work in a well-ventilated area and avoid sparks or open flames.
Suspension System: Springs are under tremendous pressure and can cause serious injury if released improperly. Use proper spring compressors when working on the suspension.
Braking System: Brake fluid is corrosive and can damage paint. Wear gloves and eye protection when working on the braking system.

Remember, if you're not comfortable performing a particular repair, it's always best to take your crossover to a qualified mechanic.

Choosing the best crossover is a personal decision. Research different models, test drive them, and compare their specifications to your needs and budget. Good luck with your search!

We've put together a detailed diagram of a common crossover drivetrain, including component locations and wiring schematics. Understanding this diagram can be immensely helpful for repairs, modifications, and simply gaining a deeper understanding of your vehicle. If you'd like a copy of this diagram, please feel free to contact us and we can arrange for you to download the file.