Top pick: Nissan Pathfinder, $29,998-$42,098

“For those domestic types who just can’t do a minivan, this new easy-driving, seven-seat Pathfinder delivers on family-hauling duties.”

Going from tough-guy body-on-frame to modern unibody construction, this fourth-generation Pathfinder sees significant gains in space, refinement and fuel economy. The interior is pleasingly elegant, and all the surfaces that come in contact with your body — steering wheel, armrests, shift knob — are suitable cushy. Available AWD, which barely affects the best-in-class fuel economy, has a four-wheel-lock function for those slick cottage roads.

We liked:

-Clever folding second-row seats allow third-row access with child seat installed

-260 hp 3.5 L V6 and CVT make a strong and efficient pair

-Reclining third-row seats are entirely habitable by actual-sized humans

More: 2013 Nissan Pathfinder – from country boy to city slicker

BMW X1 xDrive35i, $39,900

BMW has injected some serious oats into its tidy crossover. The wonderful 300 hp 3.0 L turbo straight-six turns this unassuming AWD hatch into a bona fide hot-rod.

We liked:

-Smooth and seamless power delivery, great exhaust note

-Meaty steering and fine body control make it your back-road ally

-Carries lots of stuff, but make sure it’s all tied down

Hyundai Santa Fe Sport 2.0T, $35,200

With its strong and smooth 264 hp turbo four, this all-new Santa Fe has wings. As with all Hyundai products, the feature count is high.

We liked:

-Heated front and rear seats, plus heated steering wheel

-Crisp body styling and 19-inch machine-finished alloys

-Smooth and quiet ride

Acura RDX, $40,990

This luxury compact crossover grows up and gains wider appeal. Loses perky turbo-four for a more-refined and less-thirsty V6. Much smoother ride, too.

We liked:

-Cylinder deactivation that ekes out a bit more fuel economy

-Roomier, airier cabin with a more upscale and clean design

-Comfy back seats and low cargo floor height

Chevrolet Traverse, $32,995

This full-size, eight-seat crossover sees a mid-cycle makeover that features new front and rear design and nicely refreshed interior. The 281 hp 3.6 L V6 carries over.

We liked:

-Surprisingly nimble for such a big hauler

-Available front in-board airbag that separates driver and passenger during side collision

-Improved suspension compliance means your soccer team will sleep easy