The best years to buy the Honda Crosstour are generally considered to be 2012 and 2013, which strike a balance of refinement, standard equipment, and reliability compared with earlier and later years. Keep in mind that individual condition and maintenance history matter just as much as model year.
The Honda Crosstour was produced from 2009 through 2015 as a wagon-like variant of the Accord, aimed at offering more cargo space and a higher ride height without sacrificing driving dynamics. Across its run, opinions about the Crosstour varied: it delivered practical utility for some buyers, while others found its handling and interior feel not as polished as the best sedans in Honda’s lineup. For used-car shoppers, the middle years—especially 2012 and 2013—are often cited as the most sensible picks because they tend to combine updated features with more consistent reliability history.
Which Crosstour years stand out
To guide buyers, here’s a quick snapshot of why certain years are favored and what to expect from them.
- 2012 Crosstour: Widely regarded as the best balance of comfort, features and reliability, with updates over earlier models that reduced some of the rough edges and added tech options.
- 2013 Crosstour: Very similar to 2012, often chosen for the available trims and strong dealer availability; it continues the same refined package without major changes.
These two years are commonly recommended by buyers and reviewers as the most sensible choices in the Crosstour lineup, especially for those seeking a used example with fewer surprises and more standard equipment.
Year-by-year considerations
To understand risk and value, consider the broad patterns across the Crosstour’s production years, noting that the 2010–2011 models kicked off the lineup with more variable quality, while 2014–2015 models lean toward late-model pricing with higher mileage unless purchased with a good warranty.
- 2009–2011: Early-generation Crosstours can be appealing on price, but these years carried more reliability and refinement trade-offs, including potential transmission, drivetrain or interior wear issues. If you target these years, a thorough pre-purchase inspection and service history is essential.
- 2012–2013: The consensus sweet spot for most used-Crosstour shoppers, offering improved interior quality, better standard equipment, and generally fewer reported issues than the earliest models.
- 2014–2015: Later models with minimal or no major updates; typically pricier and higher-mileage examples, but with modern conveniences and more polished interiors. Reliability remains similar to earlier years, so verify maintenance records and component wear.
In practice, if you want the strongest value and lowest risk, target a 2012 or 2013 Crosstour with a clean service history and a solid inspection.
What to look for when buying a used Crosstour
Regardless of year, there are common checks that can help you avoid surprise repairs and ensure you get a dependable vehicle.
- Mechanical condition: Listen for unusual engine noise, check for smooth shifting in automatic transmissions, and verify all AWD components if equipped. Have a trusted mechanic inspect the engine, transmission, and drivetrain.
- Maintenance history: Look for consistent maintenance with records for oil changes, fluids, timing belt/chain if applicable, and any recalls addressed.
- Interior and exterior wear: Check the cargo area, tailgate, seat upholstery, and trim for wear and corrosion; examine door seals and weatherstripping for leaks.
- Electrical features: Test infotainment, navigation (if equipped), climate control, power seats, and other electronics to catch connector or sensor issues early.
- Resale value and warranty: Consider certified pre-owned options if available, which can provide extended warranties and more predictable coverage.
Summary
For most buyers, the 2012 and 2013 Honda Crosstour represent the best overall value, balancing refinement, features, and reliability. Early 2010–2011 models carry more risk and lower resale value, while 2014–2015 examples tend to command higher prices with similar mechanical concerns. A careful used-car inspection and service history are your best tools to find a Crosstour that fits your needs and budget.