Maybe it’s simply automotive Stockholm Syndrome, however after 15 years of testing autos, an enormous proportion of which have been crossover SUVs, I’m able to say it: Crossovers aren’t so unhealthy.
Yeah, I do know, you’re going to ask me to blink twice if I’m OK, however hear me out.
First of all, I nonetheless stay a fan of rip-roaring sports activities automobiles, however let’s face it – even throughout growth occasions, sports activities automobiles are a small a part of the market.
Second, I stay a steadfast sedan man. I’m NOT, to be clear, suggesting I’ve deserted that place. I nonetheless discover that sedans, notably mid-sizers, can get the job performed for a lot of drivers and their households.
Nor am I arguing right here that crossovers are higher than wagons (few of which stay), minivans, or body-on-frame SUVs. It could be a idiot’s errand to attempt to argue what section of autos is the “best”.
I’m merely saying that for all of the crap that we fanatics and auto journalists fling at crossovers, possibly solely a small little bit of it’s truly justified?
Again, I get the arguments that wagons and minivans can do utility higher than crossovers and that crossovers solely exist as a result of, for folks of sure ages (notably older Millennials and most, if not all, of Gen X), wagons and minivans get unfairly written off as deeply uncool. And what? I’m not going to argue that crossovers are “better” on the subject of utility, driving dynamics, and even gasoline financial system. Generally talking, they aren’t.
But I’m beginning to perceive the attraction. Most crossovers DO look higher than most minivans, and whereas some wagons are horny AF ( you, Jaguar XF Sportbrake), most aren’t going to make me have a look at them the way in which Homer Simpson appears at a pork chop.
Fuel financial system, or at the least vary if not mpg, is usually acceptable. I’ve given up hope on the subject of sporty driving – few crossovers do it effectively, and even fewer do it effectively with out costing method an excessive amount of – however most trip effectively sufficient. Most are snug, and most deal with cargo simply tremendous. I can see why individuals who have what entrepreneurs name “active lifestyles” and/or individuals who cart round a plethora of passengers and/or pets like them.
Crossovers simply merely supply a jack-of-all-trades stability, and a few handle to even look fairly trendy. Minivans don’t usually look cool (with apologies to our resident van fan, Matt P.), and whereas wagons can flip heads, too many don’t.
Don’t get me unsuitable. I mourn the dwindling of the mid-size sedan as a lot as anybody, and I consider that sedans can do extra by way of cargo and passenger hauling than most people understand. I nonetheless consider mid-sizers have a spot on this planet, and until practicality forces my hand, my subsequent each day will nearly actually be a sporty sedan of the compact or mid-size class.
I nonetheless gained’t argue that crossovers are the finest selection for many patrons. But if we’re going to be caught dwelling in a crossover world, effectively, it might be far worse.
[Image: Lincoln]
Become a TTAC insider. Get the most recent information, options, TTAC takes, and every little thing else that will get to the reality about automobiles first by subscribing to our publication.
Related
Source: www.thetruthaboutcars.com
