OREANDA-NEWS. August 08, 2011. The 2012 Honda Crosstour® approaches the crossover SUV formula from a distinctively sleek, sporty and fuel-efficient perspective while also maximizing the interior's cargo capacity, versatility and premium feel, reported the press-centre of Honda.

The Crosstour's exterior design emphasizes a bold, aerodynamic look that also conceals an accommodating rear cargo area with a large, lift-over tailgate. Premium interior styling, appointments and details extend from the passenger compartment all the way through the cargo area. An under-floor storage area in the rear of the vehicle adds functionality, while reversible cargo floor panels accommodate dirty objects.

The Crosstour is available in two trim levels, the Crosstour EX and EX-L, with Real Time™ 4WD also available on the EX-L model. For 2012, new features on the Crosstour EX include auto on/off headlights, a rearview camera, Bluetooth®1 HandsFreeLink® and USB audio interface. Two new colors are also available on all Crosstour models: Twilight Blue Metallic replaces Glacier Blue Metallic, and Basque Red Pearl replaces Tango Red Pearl.

The Crosstour comes standard with a 3.5-liter i-VTEC V-6 engine with Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) for power and efficiency. The engine produces 271 horsepower at 6,200 RPM and 254 lb-ft. of torque at 5,000 RPM, while achieving an EPA-rated city/highway/combined fuel economy of 18/27/21 mpg2 on 2WD models. Meanwhile the Crosstour EX-L with Real Time™ 4WD delivers an EPA-rated city/highway/combined fuel economy rating of 18/26/21 mpg2.

To maximize efficiency, the engine's VCM cylinder deactivation system is programmed to run on 3, 4 or 6 cylinders, based on current power requirements, and a technologically advanced 5-speed automatic transmission is standard equipment. For true utility-vehicle capability, the Crosstour provides 6.2 inches of maximum ground clearance in addition to the available Real Time™ 4WD system.

Besides its new-for-2012 auto on/off headlights, Bluetooth HandsFreeLink and USB audio interface, standard features on the Crosstour EX include projector-beam headlights, fog lights, 17-inch aluminum wheels with P225/65R17 all-season tires, a moonroof, body-colored power side mirrors with defrost, chrome door handles, auto up/down driver and front passenger side windows and rear privacy glass. Inside are dual-zone automatic air conditioning with second-row ventilation, a 360-watt AM/FM 6-disc audio system with seven speakers, steering wheel-integrated audio controls, a compass and outside temperature indicator, cruise control, an easy fold-down 60-40 split rear seatback, a hidden removable utility box and more.

Crosstour EX-L adds 18-inch aluminum wheels with P225/60R18 all-season tires, leather-trimmed seating surfaces with heated front seats, a memory driver-side seat and memory side mirrors with reverse tilting capability, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and gearshift knob, Kevlar® cone audio speakers, front aluminum dome-type tweeter speakers, an auto day/night dimming rearview mirror, a HomeLink™ transmitter and a cargo privacy cover.

The Honda Satellite-linked Navigation System3 and the Real Time™ 4WD mentioned above are available together or separately on the Crosstour EX-L. The Navigation system includes a rearview camera with guidance lines integrated into the display.

Safety technology includes the Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure, a Honda-exclusive body design that enhances occupant protection and crash compatibility in frontal collisions. Additional safety equipment on the Crosstour includes Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®), anti-lock brakes with electronic brake distribution and brake assist, side curtain airbags with a rollover sensor, driver's and front passenger's side airbags with passenger-side Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS), dual-stage, multiple-threshold front airbags, and active front seat head restraints.

The Crosstour is assembled in Ohio at the Honda of America Mfg., Inc., East Liberty Auto Plant using domestic and globally sourced parts.

Editor's Note: For 2012, the official name becomes Crosstour®, replacing Accord Crosstour (2010 and 2011 models).

Additional media information including detailed pricing features and high-resolution photography of the 2012 Honda Crosstour is available at www.hondanews.com. Consumer information is available at automobiles.honda.com.

1 The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are owned by the Bluetooth SIG, Inc., and any use of such marks by Honda Motor Co., Ltd., is under license.

2 Based on 2012 EPA mileage estimates. Use for comparison purposes only. Do not compare to models before 2008. Your actual mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle.

3 The Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ is available on the Crosstour EX-L model in the United States, except Alaska. Please see the navigation system manual for details.