--- The Neither-Nor Conundrum: A Test of Crossover SUVs In the world of automotive journalism, there exists a peculiar category of vehicles known as crossovers. These cars, often confused with minivans or wagons, have found a niche in the market that defies traditional classification. The Honda Pilot, Buick Rendezvous, Mitsubishi Endeavor, Nissan Murano, and Toyota Highlander are five such crossovers that have been pitted against each other in a battle of wits, features, and performance. Upon first glance, these vehicles appear to be a mishmash of characteristics, but as we delve deeper, a more nuanced picture emerges. The Pilot, with its 240-hp V-6 and smooth five-speed automatic transmission, takes the top spot in our test, edging out the Murano by a hair. The Pilot's voluminous interior, granitic solidity, and all-around utility make it a compelling choice for families and road trippers alike. The Rendezvous, on the other hand, falls short ...
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The Neither-Nor Conundrum: A Test of Crossover SUVs
In the world of automotive journalism, there exists a peculiar category of vehicles known as crossovers. These cars, often confused with minivans or wagons, have found a niche in the market that defies traditional classification. The Honda Pilot, Buick Rendezvous, Mitsubishi Endeavor, Nissan Murano, and Toyota Highlander are five such crossovers that have been pitted against each other in a battle of wits, features, and performance.
Upon first glance, these vehicles appear to be a mishmash of characteristics, but as we delve deeper, a more nuanced picture emerges. The Pilot, with its 240-hp V-6 and smooth five-speed automatic transmission, takes the top spot in our test, edging out the Murano by a hair. The Pilot’s voluminous interior, granitic solidity, and all-around utility make it a compelling choice for families and road trippers alike.
The Rendezvous, on the other hand, falls short in the performance department, with a 3.4-liter V-6 that struggles to keep pace with the competition. Its Versatrak all-wheel-drive system, however, is a redeeming quality, providing confident traction on snowy dirt roads. The Rendezvous’s clean, subdued gray décor and audio-measured-up interior make it a pleasant ride, but its lackluster handling and noisy interior bring it down.
The Endeavor, with its 215-hp V-6 and generous cargo capacity, is a dark horse in this competition. Its soft-touch material covering the upper dash and portions of the door panels, plus rich-looking textures and plush leather seating, conspire to give it a strong sense of luxury. However, its poor use of interior space, busy dashboard, and marginal snow traction hold it back from greatness.
The Murano, with its 245-hp V-6 and continuously variable automatic transmission, is the most athletic player in this derby. Its abundant grip, generous vented rotors, and sporty exterior make it a head-turner, but its flinty ride and squeaks and jiggles bring it down to earth.
Lastly, the Highlander, with its 220-hp V-6 and 4-speed automatic transmission, rounds out the competition. Its creamy ride, smooth powertrain, and superb fit and finish make it a compelling choice, but its modest power and anonymous styling hold it back from the top spot.
In the end, the Honda Pilot takes the crown, its mix of competence, solidity, and utility making it the most well-rounded crossover SUV in this test. But the Nissan Murano is a close second, its blend of style and athleticism making it a formidable opponent.
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