Quite a Combo

Hankering for a road warrior's chariot-otherwise known as asport utility vehicle-but hate that truck-like handling? Want tonsof cargo space with seats you can flip down or remove, but need thecomforts of a passenger car for commuting? A crossover vehiclegives you the best of both worlds. With a car-based chassis insteadof a truck chassis, a crossover provides all the characteristics ofa sedan-cushiness, easy handling and conveniences-plus the sturdyfeatures, versatility and capabilities of an SUV.

Crossovers are for those who don't want to give uplumbar-support seats, wood-grain dashboards, fancy trim and sportyperformance but still love the ruggedness, high seat position,flexibility and roominess of an off-roader. Some crossovers are amix of wagon, sedan and SUV, with suspensions that can beautomatically raised for off-roading. These come closest tocombining a business car, suitable for chauffeuring clients, withthe four-wheel drive and other features necessary for enjoying aweekend in the mountains.