Crossovers driving value for families

Crossover Utility Vehicles, a.k.a. Crossovers or CUVs, are popular here in the States. The midsize CUV segment is one of the most competitive markets. This was a topic of conversation at the 2014 Toyota Highlander launch presentation; a vehicle that has undergone dramatic change in the name of appealing to more families. You might have even seen their Super Bowl ad with the Muppets.

More about the Highlander in a second; it is just one example of a CUV that has recently been completely redesigned. Then, there is the Dodge Journey, which was new to the market for 2009. It is a midsize CUV that offers seven-passenger seating and is likely to see a redesign in 2016.

As you can see, a lot of investment is put into this vehicle category. The 2014 Dodge Journey Crew Limited AWD is no exception with innovative features like under passenger-seat storage (the seat cushion flips forward to reveal useful hidden space!) and covered recessed storage areas in the floor ahead of the second row. There is also the optional entertainment package and standard 8.4 inch touch screen display that controls everything from the driver assistance and safety features to the radio and climate control.

With the All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system you have the confidence to drive around the city or out on the highway in the snow. Add the power of the 283-hp Pentastar V6 and you can get moving to 60 mph in under 8 seconds while getting decent fuel economy of 16/24 mpg city/hwy. What is there to dislike?

I had not recently considered the Journey with some of that credit going to its Avengeresque styling. The experience with the Journey reminded me of what a competitive vehicle it is, even if a redesign is in its future. And, in my humble opinion, you just can’t beat the touch screen user interface.

Turning our attention to the all-new 2014 Toyota Highlander, the first impression is that it is a pretty bold move by Toyota. The styling requires them to bend their own rules in sheet metal forming and they have changed the rear suspension to a double wishbone allowing for more interior room. More room translates into 8-passenger seating in a vehicle that is actually shorter than the Dodge Journey. It also provides an improved dynamic driving experience (read: better handling).

The Highlander has improved from almost every angle. The interior is more refined and similar to family vehicles like the Camry. They added soft touch interior appointments and a center console that will hold a large Coach purse (or 70+ juice boxes).

The only place that hasn’t improved in the new Highlander is under the hood with the 3.5-Liter V6 engine. Toyota didn’t let their loyal buyers down, but instead focused on upgrading the AWD system and providing a revised 6-speed transmission that improves inclement weather handling and fuel efficiency giving it an EPA rating of 18/25 mpg city/hwy with the AWD, the best mpg of midsize CUVs.

As we wind down this Auto article, you can see why this is such a competitive vehicle category. CUVs like the Journey and Highlander are competing tooth and nail for the family buyer — a buyer today that wants style, a fun and safe driving experience and, most of all, flexibility. For that, these are two CUVs you can’t ignore. A point of difference: the Journey tested at $35,305 and a comparable Highlander will run you easily $5,000 more.