The first one of the 2011 Crossover Vehicles is the 2011 Toyota Venza. The 2011 Toyota Venza has an all wheel drive system with an active torque control. It has projector beam halogen with an automatic on and off feature. It also highest possible side crash car rating in its class. The airbags in the Venza are mounted on the seats in the front on the driver and passenger sides, front and rear side curtain airbags, and an airbag for the driver’s knees. There is a voice activated navigation system in the car.

The second one of the 2011 Crossover Vehicles is the 2011 Nissan Juke. The 2011 Nissan Juke is the cheapest vehicle out of all the other crossover vehicles. It can seat up to five people and is turbocharged. Its best features are air conditioning, CD stereo with MP3 and Bluetooth connectivity, six air bags, electronic stability control and active front head restraints that help reduce whiplash injury in a collision. It has a customized cargo space where you can load up all of your groceries. It comes with Bluetooth technology that allows you to store all of your important numbers.

The third crossover vehicle is the 2011 Honda Crossover. The 2011 Honda Crossover can get up to 28 miles per gallon on the highway and 21 miles per gallon in the city. It has a hidden removable utility box in the trunk. It also has a drive by mile throttle system. It is known for its safety features like the ability to protect the driver and the passengers in case of a wreck. There is a less chance of a person getting whiplash while in this vehicle. It also has a tire pressuring monitoring system to also help in wrecks.

The fourth crossover vehicle is the 2011 Ford Flex. The 2011 Ford Flex has some really great features. The first feature is the bold style. This style includes grooved door panels, a 3 bar chrome grille, a two toned roof, a greenhouse flowing design, and black leather seats. The second feature is the comfort level. The comfort of the vehicle includes enough seating for seven, a folding center armrest, refrigerated console, plenty of storage room, vista roof, and a capless gas filter. The third feature is the latest technology. This technology includes ecoboost engine, voice activated navigation system, Sync system, Sony audio system, ambient lighting, rear view camera, and active park assist. The third feature is safety. The safety features include six standard airbags, tire pressure monitoring system, and MyKey.

The fifth 2011 crossover vehicle is the 2011 Chevy Traverse. The 2011 Chevy Traverse has some great features too. The first feature is the exterior. The exterior includes blind spot mirrors, Ultrasonic Rear Parking Assistant, and 17″ wheels on LS, 18″ wheels on LT, and 20″ aluminum wheels on LTZ. The second feature is the interior. The interior includes comfortable room for eight passengers, a smart slide second row, plenty of cargo space, and the convenience of the cargo space. The third feature is the capability. The capability includes the best fuel economy and great power. The fourth feature is the technology. The technology includes XM NavTraffic, rearview camera system, and ability to stay connected with the Bluetooth technology.

Consumer Reports has named two brands of SUV as the top ones for that year: the Subaru Forester as the best small SUV, and the Hyundai Santa Fe as the best medium- sized of that type.

The Subaru Forester is a rugged, all- wheel drive vehicle, capable of performing in bad weather, making it ideal for traveling to ski lodges and other such vacation spots. Its low points include relatively low ground clearance and capability off the road. The interior of the most recent model is more spacious and upscale.

The Hyundai Santa Fe has a strong, efficient V6 engine and a roomy cabin, and its controls are easy to operate. It also comes with a “great warranty.” Cons are that some people may find certain models to be too firm.

The following three vehicles are highly rated by Business Week:

At $24,000 the Volkswagen Tiguan may seem rather expensive, but the price is worth the quality of this truck. It is equipped with the best Bluetooth technology, and its interior is of high quality, however it has only a limited amount of space, so families with many children should have second thoughts about buying this SUV. Its economy of fuel is also low.

The Honda Element is an excellent choice for anyone who has a dog, for it is equipped with an entry ramp, a fan, a food and water bowl, and “dog bone upholstery!” It also has a crash- resistant crate to house the dog.

The Dodge Journey has fought its bad reputation by making a number of improvements over its earlier self, including sharpening the chassis and creating a more pleasant- looking inside. The dashboard and other instruments are covered in shiny plastic.

Most specialists have rated the Honda CR- V as the best 2010 SUV among the cheap compact models in terms of safety: it costs less than $25,000. This model has won a number of awards, including the Motorist Choice Award and Best Compact Crossover for the Money. Among large luxury SUVs, the Mercedes 2010 has been given a high rating because of its fuel economy, but is engine is less powerful than those of many other trucks, nor is it really intended for off- the- road driving.

The Chevrolet Equinox has not only a spacious inside, it also has a computer console complete with a USB port. The chair- like balloons that came with the previous year’s model have been replaced by a set of buckets that offer much greater comfort.

The Toyota Land Cruiser is a rare type: It combines the ruggedness of an off- road vehicle with the comfort of an on- road type. It can tow heavy trailers. But there is limited space inside and the third- row seat is of rather inferior functioning.

The 2010 Nissan Xterra ranks among the best off- the- road SUVs; it certainly has a strong V6 engine, but its inside is not particularly attractive, and driver experience has been low.

One of the most highly rated crossovers is the Toyota Rav 4. With a great manufacturer name backing up a great looking vehicle, which offers a great ride, and best of all, an affordable price all consumers will love. Coming in at a base of $22,475 and ranging up to $28,785 (including additional add-ons), the Toyota is a great choice for crossover lovers. It gets 22 city and 28 highway MPG, a powerful V6 engine, has a spacious interior which can seat up to 5, optional third row seating (which offers seating for up to 7), “car-like,” handling, and a great overall ride, for off-roading, or taking the kids to soccer practice. This fuel efficient, low cost crossover, is a great choice for any consumer on the market.

Another low cost option in the crossover market is the Chevrolet Equinox. Coming in at $22,995 and up to $30,320 depending on add-ons such as: navigation, leather interior, and sunroof, choosen by consumers, this is another great low cost option. It gets 22 city and 32 highway MPG, has a rugged looking exterior, offers a high-quality quiet cabin, versatile drive, rear sliding seat, and a powerful 4 or 6 cyclinder engine. It offers seating for up to 7, yet for a more comfortable ride 5-6 passengers; base features (radio, CD, A/C, power windows, and keyless entry). It also has a room 63.7 cubic foot capacity for great storage space. This low cost, extremely fuel efficient vehicle, offers a slick look, a powerful ride, and is friendly on any consumer’s budget.

Coming in next as far as price is concerned is the Honda Cr-V. The base price is $21,895 and up to $30,095 based on consumers choice. It gets 21 city and 29 highway MPG, offers a quiet ride, durable exterior look, and a refined interior, with a leather seating as a base package. Seating up to 7 passengers, the roomy model, is great for larger families, or the carpooling mom. Highly rated for safety features, offers plenty of space and hidden storage features, comes with an abundance of base features (which are considered add-ons on other models of vehicles), is a very comfortable and spacey ride, and has been rated a great family car by many consumers. For a more refined interior, and safe car for the family, the CR-V is a great choice.

Finding the most Review of Affordable Crossover vehicles on the market in today’s economy is not very difficult to do. If you are willing to give up a few “luxury” items, you can get a great car, for a great price, from a variety of manufacturers in the crossover market.

The 2011 Honda CR-V is one of the greatest affordable compact SUVs available on the market. It has a great design and is one of the best choices for families. The seating is extremely comfortable for a soft and enjoyable drive every time. The Honda CR-V has lots of truck space and storage units. This is great for families with children who need to carry sporting goods and other items, everyone benefits from the extra storage space.

This affordable compact SUV is not the best in terms of gas per mileage and does not offer the absolute best look, but is good at everything else. The Honda CR-V includes a little bit of every feature found in other compact SUVs to bring the most all around well-built vehicle. The technology in the CR-V is very up to date with features such as USB connections and included Bluetooth capabilities. There is even touch screen navigation for easy access to the various features such as the rear view camera.

The Honda CR-V is very powerful with a 2.4 liter inline four cylinder engine. It is ideal for driving around in town as well as going off road and climbing up steep hills. The power in the CR-V makes it perfect for cold climates where the winter season hits hard. This vehicle is made to last through the toughest weather. The CR-V has 180 horsepower, which is very good for this type of vehicle. It comes with a 5 speed automatic transmission and privacy tinted glass. The rear seats have the ability to fold right into the floor for easy storage space.

This durable and affordable compact SUV is one of the best all around vehicles in its class. It is great for anyone who is looking for a vehicle that is larger than a regular car and benefits from extra storage space without having a full sized SUV. Full size SUVs tend to be very expensive on gas mileage and normally have rougher rides.

The Honda CR-V benefits from many technological features and has a smooth and easy drive to it. This is not one of the most luxurious vehicles but is perfect for someone who is looking for high quality at an affordable price. The design is sporty and the choice in color is quite varied for great customizability. The Honda CR-V should be considered as a serious affordable compact SUV.

The second mini SUV is the 2011 Chevrolet Equinox. The 2011 Chevrolet Equinox is one of the most fuel efficient vehicles in its class. This is because it can get up to 22 miles per gallon in the city and 32 miles per gallon on the highway. It also has the optional three row seat.

Honda CR-V

The third one of the best mini SUV’s is the 2011 Honda CR-V. The 2011 Honda CR-V is known for its comfortable setting and roomy trunk. Some of the Honda CR-V features are for safety. These features include anti lock brakes and a tire pressure monitoring system. The fourth mini SUV is the 2011 GMC Terrain. The 2011 GMC Terrain is known for using the latest technology. Some of this technology includes a rear vision camera, usb port, Bluetooth, and Onstar. There are six airbags in the GMC Terrain to help save your live in an accident.

Volkswagen Tiguan

The fifth one of the best mini SUV’s is the 2011 Volkswagen Tiguan. The 2011 Volkswagen Tiguan has a turbo charged engine and great handling around curves. It also has some great safety features. This SUV was built to last for many years to come. The sixth one is the 2011 Hyundai Tucson. The 2011 Hyundai Tucson’s exterior is known to follow the wind and air movement. The best features of the Hyundai Tucson are a tilt and telescopic steering wheel, a more powerful engine, steering wheel mounted audio controls, a leather wrapped steering wheel and Bluetooth technology.

Kia Sportage

The seventh one of the best mini SUV’s is the 2011 Kia Sportage. The 2011 Kia Sportage is definitely not your average SUV. It is a fun vehicle to drive. It makes people feel like they are driving a luxury vehicle without having to pay the luxury price. The eighth one is the 2011 2011 Subaru Forester. The 2011 Subaru Forester is a great SUV if the weather is constantly changing where you are driving the SUV. This is because it can handle the roads without any problems. People who buy this type of SUV are very smart with their money.

Honda Element

The ninth one is the 2011 Honda Element. The 2011 Honda Element is great for off roaders. Plus it is one of the best vehicles for someone who travels a lot or is moving. This is because there is plenty of room for all of your things in the back. The tenth one is the 2011 Mazda CX-7. The 2011 Mazda CX-7 is known as a sporty sedan. This is because of its 244 horsepower turbocharged engine. It is best known for its performance features that include a multi point fuel injection system and has a 16.4 gallon fuel tank. This means that it can get up to 20 miles per gallon in the city and 28 miles per gallon on the highway.

These are just some of the great compact SUV’s that have show up in the past few years.

Whatever the driving force is behind your desire to find this kind of SUV, you should know a little about the options available to you.

Ford Escape Hybrid

Hybrid crossovers have become quite the popular vehicle. You get more than you would from a car, deal with less than you would with an SUV and get the fuel efficiencies of a hybrid. The trick is to find the best gas mileage crossover for your next vehicle. With the Escape, you get 23 city miles per gallon and 28 for the highway. In addition, this is a fairly affordable option with a starting Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price of $21,240.

The Ford Escape gets rave reviews for its economical value, but there’s more than that. The Escape also offers consumers the latest in high-tech interior features. It also can come with the Self Parking System. The negative notes mentioned that consumers felt the interior was not as versatile as much of the competition on the market today and that some of what was in place was confusing. The handling for a crossover also did not match up with what much of the competition does.

Honda CR-V

Honda has always been known for being fuel efficient, and the SUV they have developed is no different. Slightly off from the Ford Escape, the gas mileage is 21 city miles per gallon and 28 for the highway rating. The pricing is around the same as well because the Honda CR-V has a starting MSRP of $21,895. Aside from that, this crossover is known to be fun, cute and family friendly.

What you get with the CR-V is also a good deal of storage space and features to make storage more practical. Without having a V6 option, however, the slower engine and inability to get up to top speeds has some drivers looking elsewhere. However, for the price you do get plenty of standard features. The cabin is one of the most comfortable and best quality in the crossover market. Although it is revered as family friendly option, please note there is no third row seating for this crossover.

Toyota RAV4 

Keeping up with the competition, Toyota has a crossover meant to offer the same great fuel economy. The RAV4 gets 22 city miles per gallon and 28 for the highway. Fairly close in price too, the Toyota RAV4 is a little bit more at a MSRP starting point of $22,475. Overall the RAV4 is known to be a sporty looking, practical and family friendly crossover choice.

It is also one of the safest options and has received high marks for its standard safety features. A third row is available if you want a crossover that can seat seven. Unfortunately, reviews indicate the third row can be cramped and is best left for child size passengers. Drivers also feel this one has handling similar to a car. Though it has a good bit of storage space, users complained that the door to access the cargo is awkward. Also many felt many competitors have more impressive interiors.

Subaru Forester

Keeping in line with the others listed here, the Subaru Forester promises equally impressive fuel ratings for a crossover. The Forester gives you 21 miles per gallon for city driving and 27 for the highway. For this Subaru the price is right too. The starting point for the MSRP is $20,495, the lowest of these four here. Although the style is close to sporty, the Subaru isn’t, and isn’t trying to be, refined. This makes the Forester good for a family friendly vehicle.

Some positive reviews about this Subaru are that is has a good amount of room in the back seat. The handling is also given props for being “sporty.” Consumers appreciate the fact that the all wheel drive is standard. Of course, the low price and fuel economy were also part of the rave reviews. On the downside, there was not much love for the fact that this vehicle uses an out of date four speed transmission. Many also felt the materials used for the interior were not consistent so that some were up to par while some were inferior.

Any one of these would make a fine option for the best gas mileage crossover for you and your family.

Make a list of the things that matter the most to you such as fuel economy, number of passengers or storage capabilities, and this can help you narrow down your selection.

Toyota RAV4 

Not only is this in the affordable crossovers category, it is also a popular choice for its stylish look and family friendly capabilities. In the standard edition of the RAV4 you get a 2.5 liter, DOHC, 16 valve 4 cylinder that delivers 179 horsepower. For the fuel efficiency, the RAV4 gets 22 miles per gallon for city driving and 28 for highway. As far as pricing, the 2011 edition had a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price of $22,475 for the basic package.

Read reviews and you will see good things about this Toyota. For instance, drivers love the power and efficiency the RAV4 offers. Not to mention many feel this crossover drives and handles like a car. There is also plenty of room for up to seven passengers and all the cargo you need. The problem is the cargo door can be awkward and difficult to use. Some feel the interior could be up to higher standards. Keep in mind the RAV4 gets high marks for safety, which should be at the top of your requirements list.

Honda CR-V

The name Honda conjures up dependability as well as affordability. The CR-V is no exception to this rule. It comes with an in-line four cylinder and 180 horsepower. The fuel efficiency is 21 for city miles per gallon and 28 for the highway. When it comes to pricing, you are looking at a competitive MSRP starting at $21,895. This beats out the RAV4, but keep in mind the Toyota crossover did better as far as safety ratings.

Another drawback is less passenger capacity because there is no third row seating. As you cannot get a V6 upgrade, many drivers were disappointed with the slow and sometimes sluggish engine. On the plus side, the Honda CR-V has been deemed a great family car with space for passengers and storage. The cabin and interior ended up scoring higher for the Honda versus the Toyota crossover.

GMC Terrain

This is a popular choice for those who like the rugged look of a truck for their crossover as opposed to a cute or sporty style. All models of the Terrain have a 2.4 liter, DOHC, four cylinder SIDI engine along with a six speed transmission. For mileage, you can expect 22 for surface streets and 32 for the interstate. The MSRP starting point is slightly higher than others, however, with a $25,480, but this includes many features as standard.

Drivers rave about the fuel economy, citing it as one of the best in its class, especially for a larger size crossover. In addition, consumers like the standard features included such as the rearview camera. The flexibility of the interior makes many families happy with the sliding rear seats. The GMC Terrain is also known to be a quiet and smooth ride, especially when compared to some other crossovers. The only real complaints were the price, which is still not the highest in this division, and the look. Some people do not like the boldness or boxiness, but those who do not like cutesy were fine with it.

Mazda CX-9 

Mazda is another trusted name in the automotive world. The CX-9 offers a 3.7 liter, DOHC, 24 valve V6 that comes with a six speed Sport automatic transmission. This all creates a fairly impressive 273 horsepower. It has moderate fuel economy with 17 miles per gallon for city and 24 for highway. One drawback is that while still affordable at a starting price of $29, 135 it is considerably pricier than the Toyota, Honda or GMC.

Overall, the Mazda CX-9 has roomy seating with optional third row seating. Also many like the sporty exterior look, especially compared to the look Mazda often has for family friendly vehicles. Also this being a large crossover, many felt it handled better than expected. Unfortunately, this also means a somewhat stiffer ride than one would hope for. This complaint and the steeper price are the two main issues experts and consumers had with the CX-9.

Of course, a great deal has to do with the individual condition of each SUV. However, some are known to have a higher resale value on a more consistent basis.

The BMW Class

BMW X5

Not one but two of the BMW SUVs made it on to the list for best resale SUV. The 2011 BMW X5 and the X6 both are lead contenders for this category. The X5 offers seating capacity for seven passengers while maintaining the classic and sleek look of a BMW, which puts this one at the head of the class. The X6 appeals to those who are looking for design closer to a more sleek and compact crossover vehicle while retaining the power of a BMW SUV. It has room for only four passengers, which could be a drawback for some.

In a side-by-side comparison, it should be noted both BMWs have the option of all wheel drive and four wheel drive and have an eight speed automatic transmission. Both have an EPA fuel economy rating of 23/16 with a combined 20 miles per gallon. You also get a 3.0 liter, turbocharged, six cylinder engine that produces an impressive 300 horsepower. Aside from features that come standard or not, the main difference between these two SUVs is the size and seating room.

The Lexus Category

Lexus RX 350

Lexus is another luxury brand that offers two different options that tend to bring top dollar as resales. The Lexus GX and the Lexus RX for 2011 are also high on the list of SUVs with high resale, and certainly the name has something to do with that. Unlike the BMWs, there are considerably more differences between the GX and the RX.

For instance, the Lexus GX comes in all wheel drive only, while the RX is front wheel drive only. Also, the RX is a six speed automatic, and the GX is a five speed. For combined gas mileage, the RX had 22 miles per gallon, while the GX only had 18. While both are four doors, the RX is meant to handle only five passengers, while the GX can carry seven. Finally, as far as the engine goes, the RX gives you a 3.5 liter V6 that creates 275 horsepower. The GX, on the other hand, is a 4.6 liter V8 that works with 301 horsepower. The GX is obviously a bigger vehicle, but there are more differences than the amount of seats each edition holds.

The Honda CR-V

Honda CR-V

In general, Hondas are known to have a good resale value, so it should come as no surprise that the Honda SUV would qualify as well. The main reason consumers crave the CR-V is the utility and performance of this SUV. People also enjoy the comfort and visibility from the heightened level of seating as an SUV should have but in the compact body that actually feels like a crossover.

The engine that comes with the standard package is a 2.4 liter, 180 horsepower one that gets the job done. Also for the 2011 model, you get a five speed transmission. For fuel ratings, you can expect 21 miles per gallon for city travels and 28 when it comes to hitting the highway. When it comes to Honda, as long as it is in somewhat decent shape you can expect fair to excellent resale value.

The Toyota FJ Cruiser

Toyota FJ Cruiser

The Cruiser gets a mention because few people realize what a dark horse in the running it is. Even without having the highest amount of sales in the SUV world, it retains a high resale value. People like this SUV option because it really is meant for off road, not just for show. It doesn’t have the greatest fuel efficiency at 17 miles per gallon for the city and 22 on the highway, but what you get in trade is power.

One main drawback is that some feel it is actually better at handling off road conditions as opposed to daily driving. In addition, there can be some issues with visibility. Otherwise, the Toyota FJ Cruiser could be the one with the best resale SUV value, whether you are looking to buy one or sell yours.

 Top Handling SUV Models

2011 Land Rover Range Rover Sport

Considered a luxury midsize SUV, the Land Rover Range Rover Sport is a good choice to consider when looking for the best handling SUV. Consumers seem to agree that you get the same great handling off road as you do on surface streets or highways. It’s all powered by a V8 engine and it’s topped off with an interior that is described as pure luxury.

On the down side, this SUV has gotten many complaints about being unreliable and scored very low overall in reliability for even the industry standard. It does have many of the whistles and bells you would expect from a high end SUV such as push button start. If handling is not at the top of your list of important features, you may want to consider something that is more reliable for the luxury sticker price such as the Porsche Cayenne.

Acura MDX

For another luxury midsize SUV with great handling, you may be interested in the Acura MDX. In fact, with a better rating for reliability this may be a much better choice for you and your family. For fuel efficiency, you get 16 city miles per gallon and 21 for the highway. Not to mention the Acura MDX scored admirably and respectably in the safety division earning a good many favorable reviews.

As far as room goes, you can seat up to seven comfortably in this one. The bad news, though, is that the third row seating is really only appropriate for child sized passengers. The interior is considered refined and family friendly and includes sufficient cargo storage area. One common complaint among consumers is that although there are plenty of whistles and bells the dashboard layout can be confusing for new owners.

Porsche Cayenne

The running theme for luxury midsize Sports Utility Vehicles seems to be handling, and the Porsche is another top contender for best handling. When it comes to SUVs, the Cayenne is considered the sports car of this classification. From the design, performance and handling, this vehicle does not conjure up images of a slightly spruced up minivan.

One of the major downfalls is the sticker price, although it isn’t too bad when you consider it is a Porsche. The other drawback is the fuel economy of 15 miles per gallon for city driving and 22 for the highway. If fuel economy is an issue, you could also consider the hybrid version of the Porsche Cayenne. With this vehicle, you get power, performance, sleek design inside and out as well as plenty of safety features. The price, fuel efficiency and confusing dashboard operation are consumers’ main complaints for the Porsche.

Honda CR-V

This crossover SUV is a reliable, dependable and affordable option for those who want great handling. Powering this vehicle is a 2.4 liter four cylinder engine that generates 180 horsepower. Honda has been known as a name to trust, especially for family friendly and safe vehicle options, for a long time. The CR-V is no different.

While you may not get luxury, you do get quality interior and a fun, sporty exterior look. This Honda is roomy yet still compact. For fuel economy, you get highway miles per gallon of 28 and city driving of 21 miles per gallon. What’s great is that many of the ratings for this model are high and on multiple review sites. Performance dipped slightly lower when compared to some of the other best handling SUVs, but comfort, appearance and safety all got the Honda CR-V high scores.

Making Your Choice

There are plenty of options to choose from when it comes to shopping for an SUV – from  deciding if you want a crossover or a full size SUV that will seat more passengers as well as hold cargo. You may even want to shop hybrids and save on gas expenses in the long run. Many car makers are beginning to offer the more popular SUVs and crossovers in a hybrid version now. Given the myriad of options today, you can consider any of these factors and still end up with the best handling SUV.

Top 2011 Crossover Vehicles

Chevrolet Equinox

The 2011 Chevrolet Equinox is a favorite of many shoppers because it’s a great value — the base price is just under $23,000. As with the price, the size of the 2011 Equinox is on the small side compared to other 2011 crossover vehicles, which can be beneficial in terms of maneuverability, although one drawback is the lack of a third row of seats. However, this drawback may be overcome depending on your preferences, as the Equinox rates highly for safety and reliability. The Equinox provides 246 horsepower but can get as much as 32 mpg (highway; 22 mpg city). Other benefits include the quiet cabin, sleek exterior design and technological tie-ins, such as OnStar service, Bluetooth, USB port and an E85 option. You can also opt for upgrades such as a V6 engine and all-wheel drive.

2011 Volkswagen Tiguan

For a crossover with European flair and classic luxury, try the 2011 Volkswagen Tiguan. With an attractive and comfortable interior, powerful engine and superior handling, this is one of the best 2011 crossover vehicles available. The Tiguan also earned high marks for safety and the standard model is good for 26 mpg on the highway and 18 mpg in the city.

Of course, there are downsides, such as the relatively limited storage space and upscale price. You may also find repairs more expensive because this isn’t an American car, but the brand is a reliable one. If you have particular preferences, the Tiguan can be a good choice, as there are three different models from which to choose. On the high end is the SEL, which offers top-tier features such as rearview camera, leather upholstery, keyless ignition, rain-sensing wipers and more. If nothing else, the Tiguan stands out for its classy appointments and luxury feel.

2011 Honda CR-V

The Honda CR-V has been a top choice since its inception, and the 2011 model does not break that trend of success. This crossover SUV is affordable and useful, with ample room for your family and your cargo. The CR-V is on the compact end of the class of 2011 crossover vehicles, but size isn’t everything in this category. One way in which the relatively small size helps the CR-V is in terms of handling; the CR-V provides enviable maneuverability and impressive fuel economy — 28 mpg highway and 21 mpg city. Despite its small size, the CR-V has earned accolades in terms of safety and reliability.

The 2011 Honda CR-V provides a smooth, somewhat luxurious ride, with features such as heated seats and optional sunroof, leather seats and voice navigation. As with other crossovers, the Honda CR-V isn’t flawless, but its drawbacks don’t offset its advantages. The CR-V cabin doesn’t block out as much noise as other models, and the engine isn’t as powerful as some of its peers. In a sense, the 2011 Honda CR-V is a jack of all trades, master of none, which can be a great fit if you have a variety of needs but no absolutely specific requirements.

2011 Toyota Rav4

Last but certainly not least is the 2011 Toyota Rav4, considered by some industry reviewers to be the best 2011 crossover vehicle available. As with the Honda CR-V, the Rav4 has been dominating this category for years, and the 2011 model continues the legacy. With ample cargo space and third-row seating, the Rav4 is a family-friendly vehicle, but it is far from the traditional “soccer mom” van thanks to a powerful engine and impressive handling. The 2011 Rav4 is loaded with safety features such as side-curtain airbags designed to sense rollovers, so you can be confident that your human cargo is secure. The Rav4 is also reliable and provides a smooth ride, but it can feel cramped if you have a lot of large passengers and the interior design is a strictly no-frills affair.

The class of 2011 crossover vehicles is a large one, but the choice of which to drive home doesn’t have to be difficult. Several crossovers stand out among the pack, with near-ideal combinations of features geared toward performance, luxury and utility. More research is always better than less, so be sure to check all of your options before making a commitment.