Last week in Geneva, Mazda showed the third concept in this trilogy, the Hakaze, a compact crossover that could theoretically be on the road in a few years.

The new Navigator will be introduced in 2014/15 as a 2015/16 model year along with a new compact crossover and sports coupe besed off of the Mustang.

Ford's compact crossover has its strengths, including an excellent 6-speed automatic transmission, comfortable passenger accommodations, and the availability of a frugal gas/electric hybrid model.

Most important for the market was the iX35 from Hyundai, a compact crossover to rival the likes of the Ford Kuga.

Though Mariner was roomy and comfortable, it felt dated compared with other recently redesigned compact crossovers.

Instead of the Hummers it once promoted, General Motors offered the Buick Encore, which is actually smaller than many compact crossovers.

The Audi Q3 is a five-door compact crossover by Audi.

It was the first compact crossover, making its debut in Japan and Europe in 1994 and in North America in 1996.

This decision was materialised to fill the void abdicated for compact crossovers as Chevrolet phased out the HHR.

The Ford Escape is a compact crossover sold by Ford Motor Company introduced in 2000, as a 2001 model year, and priced below the Ford Explorer.