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With electronic controls available for all functions, the designers have attempted to revolutionize the way a driver controls the car. Every control is on the U-shaped steering ‘wheel’, including the accelerator and brake functions as well as the gear change buttons. To accelerate, the driver turns the end of the steering wheel clockwise and to brake, he turns it anti-clockwise. A multi-information display panel is positioned either above the steering column while a larger monitor to the side provides navigation information.

Though a compact 4.28 metres, the C-Crosser’s interior doesn’t feel claustrophobic because of the large glass areas around it. The roof is almost entirely of glass and when stationary, the rear side doors can slide open.

On the powertrain side, the C-Crosser is powered by the latest direct-injection 2.0-litre petrol engine and has an autoactive automatic transmission delivering power to all four wheels all the time. To cope with off-road motoring, the Hydractive 3 suspension (already fitted to the C5) has long travel and ground clearance can be increased from 140 mm to 200 mm.

4-wheel steering is also used to enhance manoeuverability at low speeds and stability at higher speeds. The hydraulic steering also has full electronic control allowing the steering wheel angle/wheel ratio to vary according to the driver’s requirements.