Within the last decade, crossovers have become one of the most popular family-friendly vehicles in the auto industry. It's hard to avoid the allure of a crossover with their smooth rides, excellent handling, useful cargo space and room for up to eight passengers in larger options. As the crossover market continues to develop, the latest models of the crossovers are the ultimate fusion of luxury and utility. The 2017 Ford Flex, 2017 Nissan Pathfinder and 2017 Honda Pilot set the bar high in terms of comfort, luxury, and function for the new model year. If you are considering purchasing one of these three crossover SUVs, read on to find answers to important questions that might help you find the best crossover for your needs.
The Nissan Pathfinder not only received a five-star safety rating and but also integrates smart technology that contributes to the overall safety of this vehicle. For example, the available Around View monitor creates a birds' eye view which makes parallel parking much easier - and safer. Intelligent Cruise Control transforms the traditional cruise by maintaining not only safe speeds but safe distances between you and other cars. The Honda Pilot also includes an interval-monitoring cruise control called Adaptive Cruise Control, lane keeping assist, and Collision Mitigation Braking System(tm). The Ford Flex features AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control(tm) which activates the brakes to if the risk of a rollover is detected.
The Honda Pilot Elite comes standard with AWD, a panoramic roof, heated second row seats, and Blind Spot Information system. The Elite trim also includes all of the features of the Touring trim.
The Honda Pilot LX can accommodate 8 passengers with 60/40 second and third rows.
When choosing a new car, gas mileage is an important factor, but it is especially important if a vehicle is going to be used for road trips and/or multiple trips around town. Out of the best crossovers, the 2017 Honda Pilot and the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder nearly tie for best gas mileage. The Pilot wins out slightly with EPA estimated ratings of 27 mpg highway/ 20 mpg city. The EPA estimated mpg for the Honda Pilot is 27 highway and 19 city.
The ability to easily access the third row is one feature that makes a crossover stand out in a crowd. The Honda Pilot EX-L and Touring make getting to the third row effortless. Simply, press a button and let the seats move aside for you.
The Limited trim level allows you to drive with comfort and style. The interior of the cabin is sophisticated with leather-trimmed first and second row seats, leather-trimmed gear shift, and ambient lighting. Smart technology makes any drive easier; the autofold function makes third row access easier while the driver's seat features 10-way power driver's seat with memory. Riding as a passenger is made easier with reading lamps for all second and third row passengers, coat and grocery bag hooks, Intelligent access with push-button start, and two USB ports.
While there are over 70 crossover vehicles to choose from, not all crossovers are comfortable or spacious. Some crossovers sacrifice passenger space for cargo space. The Nissan Pathfinder, however, does not compromise the space of its passengers. In fact, its second row has the most leg room in all of the crossovers: 41.7 inches of room to stretch your legs.
One of the biggest benefits to owning a crossover instead of a sedan is the increase in cargo space. The 2017 Honda Pilot offers an incredible 109 cubic feet of space when the second and third row seats are folded down.