AWD Crossover

Winner: Mazda CX-9
Runner-Up: Toyota Highlander

This growing segment should get even bigger in the next few years. For manufacturers, the trick is to make sure these crossovers don't look too much like cars, even though they're typically based off some kind of car platform. For the most part, we're not fans of this segment because these vehicles usually have less of everything (payload, cargo space, towing, seating capacity) when compared with a ladder-frame SUV. The only exception is the Mazda CX-9, which has enough power with its strong 3.7-liter V6, more than 100 cubic feet of cargo volume, more than 1500 pounds of payload, and with a few options, you can get the towing rating up to 5000 pounds. Likewise, the CX-9 has very little of the typical minivan or crossover body roll, and the all-wheel-drive system seems quick and smart enough to keep us out of trouble. Our other like in the category is the always-solid Toyota Highlander, now bigger, more powerful, but still just as boring.