Crossovers to hit it big in 2008

Auto makers have long sought the perfect balance between power, room, efficiency, and style. The crossover is the industry's latest find. With estimated sales of the category to exceed 3 million next year, it seems the industry has found a winner.

More and more people are finding a sedan simply doesn't fit enough people or cargo for their daily needs, especially as anti-traffic measures like carpooling become more common, reports MSNBC. The rising price of fuel and growing concern for the environment make SUVs a dying breed. That's where crossovers step in - more car than a sedan, without the efficiency-sapping size and bulk of the SUV. Ford's Kuga crossover concept (pictured) is a model for the genre, its edgy looks and flowing shape a hit at the recent Frankfurt Motor Show.

Built on the same platforms that underpin sedans, typical crossovers provide car-like efficiency - Mazda's CX-7 manages 17mpg (13.8L/100km) city and 22mpg (10.7L/100km) highway - while holding 5 adults in comfort and providing, in the Mazda's case, 29.9cu ft (847.9L) cargo capcity -- 58.6cu. ft. (1661.9L) with the second-row seats folded down.

It wasn't easy for the industry to find this sweet spot, and car makers are looking forward to a long life for the nascent crossover category. 2008 is set to be the sector's coming-out party, with analysts expecting 70 to 80 models to hit the streets over the next two years.