Why did they stop making crosstours?
The Crosstour was discontinued after the 2015 model year due to weak sales and a struggle to find a clear buyer niche in a crowded SUV market.
What was the Crosstour?
Launched for the 2010 model year, the Honda Crosstour was built on the Accord platform and blended a wagon-like interior with a higher ride height and a distinctive sloping rear hatch. It aimed to offer extra cargo space and a sportier profile without sticking to a traditional SUV silhouette. Production ran through the 2015 model year, after which Honda removed the model from its U.S. lineup.
Why did production end?
Multiple factors converged to make the Crosstour untenable in a rapidly evolving crossover market. The following points explain why Honda chose to discontinue the model.
- The Crosstour struggled to articulate a clear value proposition in a crowded segment, leaving it with limited appeal relative to more conventional crossovers.
- Sales remained weak as buyers favored traditional SUVs and more versatile options like the CR-V and Pilot, which offered better interior space and practicality.
- Pricing and packaging risks—it carried a premium over similar models, while its sloped rear roof reduced cargo space compared with typical wagons or SUVs.
- Overlap with other Honda models created internal market competition for buyers who might choose between the CR-V, Pilot, or Crosstour, complicating marketing and resale value.
- Honda’s broader strategy shifted toward strengthening its core, high-volume models, allowing resources to be redirected to more successful crossovers and SUVs.
In sum, the Crosstour failed to carve out a sustainable niche, and Honda’s push to streamline its lineup and emphasize proven crossovers ultimately led to its discontinuation after the 2015 model year.
What came after the Crosstour?
Following the Crosstour’s exit, Honda continued to expand and refine its core SUV lineup—CR-V, Pilot, and later additions like the HR-V and Passport—focusing on practicality, efficiency, and strong brand familiarity rather than niche departures. The market reward for a lean, cohesive lineup has reinforced Honda’s emphasis on those flagship models.
Legacy and takeaways
The Crosstour’s short life serves as a reminder that, in the crossover era, buyers prioritize clear purpose, ample cargo and passenger space, and a compelling value proposition. Automakers can experiment with niche concepts, but success hinges on delivering a distinctive benefit without cannibalizing existing, more popular products.
Summary
Honda stopped producing the Crosstour after the 2015 model year due to weak sales, unclear positioning, and a strategic focus on its strongest crossovers. The model’s brief run underscores the competitive dynamics of the SUV market and the importance of cohesive lineup strategy for automakers.
Why did Honda discontinue Crosstour?
The Crosstour was not the sales success Honda hoped for. The maker eventually replaced it with the Passport, a far more conventional sport utility.
Is Honda making a 2025 Crosstour?
And finally wireless across both Apple CarPlay. And Android Auto ambient lighting and a panoramic roof seal the deal it's upscale without screaming luxury.
What is the problem with the Honda Crosstour?
Common Honda Crosstour problems include transmission issues, excessive oil consumption in V6 models, and brake problems like rotor pulsation. Other potential issues are power steering failure, electrical system glitches, and excessive tire wear or vibrations, especially in AWD models. Regular maintenance, particularly timing belt replacement for V6 engines, is crucial to prevent costly damage.
This video discusses common Honda Crosstour problems including transmission issues and oil consumption: 59sNexologyYouTube · Sep 18, 2025
Engine and drivetrain
- Oil consumption: V6 engines are prone to excessive oil consumption, which can be caused by worn piston rings and may lead to engine damage if not addressed.
- Timing belt: V6 engines use a timing belt that requires replacement every 100,000 miles. Failure to do so in this interference engine can cause severe and expensive damage.
- Transmission: Some models have experienced transmission problems, including slipping, which can be caused by worn clutch plates or low fluid.
- Vibrations: AWD models, in particular, can suffer from vibrations caused by worn CV joints, driveshafts, or other driveline issues.
- VTC Actuator: A class-action lawsuit has been filed concerning a defective variable timing control (VTC) actuator in certain 2012-2015 Honda Crosstours.
This video explains how to diagnose and fix a common issue where the 2011 Honda Crosstour stalls after starting: 1mParts shooterYouTube · May 29, 2020
Brakes and steering
- Brake pulsation: Premature wear or pulsation during braking is a common complaint, often linked to warped brake rotors.
- Power steering: Issues with the power steering pump or fluid can lead to stiff or jerky steering.
Electrical and other issues
- Electrical glitches: Owners have reported problems with the navigation screen freezing or becoming unresponsive, likely due to software or head unit issues.
- Starting problems: Some owners experience persistent or intermittent starting issues, sometimes linked to a faulty starter or ignition system.
- Paint and trim: Fading, peeling, or cracking paint and loose exterior or interior trim have also been reported.
What is the most reliable year of Honda Crosstour?
2015
The best cars are from 2013-2015 model years, as the 2013 Honda Crosstour heralded a raft of powertrain and technology updates. Which Honda Crosstour years are the worst? Avoid the first 2010 model year as it has an outdated infotainment system, no driver assistance features, and a cluttered dashboard.
