Crossovers: The Emerging Segment

Generally, Crossovers are a smaller version of Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) with features of a hatchback. They are based on passenger-car platform architecture for an improved ride, comfort and fuel economy. Crossover combines SUV design features like tall interior packaging, high centre of gravity, high ground clearance or an all-wheel drive capability along with hatchback design features like passenger vehicle's platform, a two-box design, rear access via a third or fifth door, a lift gate and superior fuel economy. Designed for only light off-road capability, crossovers are offered with front wheel drive, rear wheel drive or an all-wheel drive configurations.

Evolution of Crossovers

Originally, the term 'Crossover' started off as just a marketing term but now has evolved into a defined market. Although Crossover is not a new concept, the 1948 Willys Overland Jeepster convertible coupe offered some of the features that define a modern crossover. Crossover vehicles which were released in the early 2000s resembled traditional SUVs and wagons, but many automakers prioritized sportiness over utility such as Infiniti FX and BMW X6. By 2006, the crossover segment gained much hype in the US when it captured more than 50% of the overall SUV market. By 2010, domestic automakers had quickly caught up and this segment gained strong appeal. Nowadays, compact crossovers have surpassed mid-size sedans to become the most popular body style. Last year, according to the market data firm IHS Automotive, crossover segment claimed 16% of retail sales. This is a significant milestone for a segment which was considered to be a minority earlier.

Popular Crossovers in Malaysia

1. Mazda CX-3

Image Courtesy: Paultan

Mazda CX-3 is all set to sail on the Malaysian roads by November 2015. This crossover would be boasting a robust petrol and diesel engine. The gasoline variant is integrated with an advanced SkyActiv-G 2.0-litre 4 cylinder engine that churns out a maximum power of 150 hp along with a peak torque of 200 Nm. Whereas the diesel variant gets a turbo 1.5-litre engine that delivers a maximum power of 104 hp along with a commanding torque of 270 Nm. Further, both the engines are mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.

2. Honda HR-V

Introduced in 2013, this car incorporates the frugality and practicality of a small hatch along with the robust appeal of an SUV. Under the hood, it is powered by a 1.8-litre SOHC, 4 cylinder petrol engine which is integrated with Honda's i-VTEC series valve technology and electronic fuel injection. This robust engine churns out a maximum power of 142 PS at 6500 rpm along with a peak torque of 172 Nm at 4300 rpm. Further, it is mated to a continuous variable transmission.

3. Ford Ecosport

This car was launched with a new layout in 2012 and garnered tremendous public attention all over the world. In Malaysia, Ford Ecosport is available in two variants namely Titanium and Trend. Both the variants are powered by the trademark Ford 1.5L Ti-VCT (twin independent variable camshaft timing) 4-cylinder engine that can churn out an exceptional power of 110 PS at 6300 rpm along with a peak torque of 142 Nm at 4500 rpm. Further, it is paired with an advanced 6-speed automatic power shift transmission.