Some cars are known for notoriously awful performance metrics. Despite its horrible (though sometimes comical) reviews, the Mitsubishi Mirage still gets a new model each year. The Chevrolet Trax is also a nightmare to drive because of its weak engine and tight, uncomfortable seats.

Then there are cars that get flack solely because of their appearance. When an automaker’s attempt at a unique design fails, you get a really ugly car as a result. Joining the ranks of the Nissan Juke and Youabian Puma is the Honda Accord Crosstour. It’s not the worst offender on MotorTrend’s list, but we can definitely see how it got there.

The history of the Honda Accord Crosstour

The Honda Accord Crosstour was first released for the 2010 model year. Just like the regular Accord, it has a comfortable interior and better fuel economy than most cars in its class. The only big difference is that it’s obviously longer.

From the start, people weren’t thrilled with the car’s appearance. The automaker got a lot of backlash when the car was teased on its Facebook page. However, AutoTrader argues the Honda Crosstour was actually the inspiration for sedans with a sloped backside. Popular models like the Honda Civic and the Audi A7 have this once uncommon feature.

How does the Honda Accord Crosstour drive?

The Honda Crosstour came equipped with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with an output of 192 hp. It’s paired with a five-speed automatic transmission. In 2013, the car got a facelift as well as a powerful new V6 option. This motor can produce up to 278 hp and comes paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.

Front-wheel drive comes standard, but all-wheel drive is available for V6 Crosstours. The base engine performs well enough for most drivers, plus gets the best fuel economy. The base four-cylinder can get 22 mpg on city commutes and 30 mpg on highway drives.

Many critics preferred the power of the V6, even if it isn’t as efficient. However, Consumer Reports also found a lot of flaws with the Crosstour during its road test. Reviewers noted that its handling is poor and there’s a noticeable lean while rounding tight corners. It’s also hard to see out of the back window of the Crosstour.

Even though it’s a wagon, it doesn’t have as much cargo space as you’d expect. The Crosstour’s sloped back end also makes it difficult to fit large items inside. The inconvenient placement of the rear wheel wells also makes loading and unloading a potential hassle. Still, it has a storage compartment under the floor that can fit several small items.

Why is it so ugly?

Honda’s intention was to appeal to folks who wanted an SUV but weren’t fans of boxy shapes. The solution was to manufacture a car that still looked like a sleek sedan. However, the end result was definitely not something to be proud of.

The Crosstour suffers from an abnormally long hood and awkwardly short back end, not quite a coupe or a wagon. Response to the Crosstour’s appearance was overwhelmingly negative. According to one Autoblog poll, only 3.4% of voters said they would buy the car based on looks alone. 

Discontinuation of the Honda Accord Crosstour

The Honda Accord Crosstour didn’t have a long run thanks to its negative reception. Its sales number definitely reflected this: it only sold around 30,000 units in its first year. During its final year, it barely sold over 9,000 units.

If you’re one of the few people who can stomach its odd appearance, the Honda Accord Crosstour isn’t a bad car performance-wise. It also has quite a versatile interior, but so do most hatchbacks. Plus, any hatchback is easier on the eyes than this car.