Crossovers among the hot trends on display at the New York Auto Show

Thursday, April 13, 2017
Crossovers among the hot trends on display at the New York International Auto Show
Tim Fleischer has the latest details.

MIDTOWN, Manhattan (WABC) -- The New York International Auto Show opens to the public Friday at the Javits Center.

But we've been giving you an exclusive look behind the scenes at some of the cars on display.

One of the hottest segments in the auto market is the crossover. And you can now find them fully electric.

Chevrolet's Bolt EV is drawing interested crowds, especially since it is a fully electric crossover.

"What we've done is crack the code to give an affordable vehicle in this segment that has a 238 mile range, nobody compares," said Chevrolet communications manager Joe LaMuraglia.

He points out Chevrolet is the only manufacturer in this crossover segment with a full EV model. A flat battery panel under the car provides more room inside.

"Has room for five people, plus it's a hatchback so you can fold the seats down. It's a very versatile vehicle," said LaMuraglia.

Inside it is full of technology and ready for WiFi service along with many safety features.

"You have a 360 degree view around the car," said LaMuraglia. "You can choose to look up front like you are pulling up close to a wall. That's your front view. Or if you're backing up your rear view. We like to think the Bolt EV is an EV for everyone. It starts at $37,495."

Another gas powered crossover entering the market is the Buick Regal Tour X, what Consumer Reports automotive writer Mike Quincy thinks takes a styling cue from the station wagon.

"It has a lower ride height so that is going to imply better handling, better braking, probably more comfortable. More car-like than truck-like," said Quincy.

Consumer Reports so far has not tested the model.

"Looks like a decent amount of headroom. Decent amount of legroom," said Quincy. "The hatchback design, fold down the seats. There is plenty of room back there."

Subaru's smaller 2018 Crosstrek is getting better marks for room. "You have this versatility, you fold down the back seats," said Quincy. "Give a lot of really usable space behind the front seats."

This is the second generation of this model. "There is a lot of value. A lot of comfort," Mike said. "Improved refinement. And that great Subaru reliability."

Tim Fleischer checks out some of the vehicles on display at the New York Auto Show.