Preview New 2010 Honda Crosstour

As if by the world’s spirits, Honda unveiled its all-new 2010 Accord Crosstour the same week I drove the Toyota Venza. The two cars are vastly different in their styling, but obviously target the same empty nesters who want extra utility in their comfy sedans. Based on the benchmark Accord, Crosstour promises all of its sister’s excellence with even more functionality.

“Our concept is to broaden the appeal of the Accord line-up by leveraging traditional Accord strengths of fun-to-drive performance and handling while also adapting to dramatic shifts in the light truck marketplace,” said Erik Berkman, vice president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. “The Accord Crosstour accomplishes that by offering a modern interpretation of a [Crossover Utility Vehicle] while integrating the refinement and efficiency of a premium sedan.”

Styling is a more advanced take on the current Accord, Insight, and FCEV that is being leased in California. The front features Honda’s new three-plane grille and strong facia. A character line runs from the front wheels and inverts to form strong rear fenders. The arching roofline gives the car a fastback look while concealing a large amount of cargo space. Interior photos have not been released, but I would not expect the Crosstour to venture far from the Honda norm.

Berkman continued, “We know SUV buyers like the commanding view of the road that comes with a high eye-point and like the comforts of living with an SUV. This vehicle meets the needs of buyers looking for those attributes yet at the same time want an image that is different from a conventional SUV.”

As a premium version of the Accord, Crosstour will occupy a space at the top of the model’s hierarchy in terms of luxury, space, and price. It should be exactly what a generation of upwardly mobile trendsetters requires. Final prices will be released when the car goes on sale later this fall, but expect the Crosstour to start around $26,000 and top out near $40,000 fully-optioned.