compact crossover segment growing (vehicle, traction, fuel, braking)

[victimofGM]

Nissan has had the love it or hate it Juke for some years now. Honda, GM, & Chrysler/FIAT have gotten into the compact crossover segment. Honda and GM compact x-over use the foundation of their subcompact hatchback (Honda Fit & Chevy Sonic). The Honda HRV, though based upon the Fit, uses the base engine from the Civic. With Honda's CVT, you can opt for AWD which only sends power to the rear wheels when it senses the front wheels beginning to spin. This could be handy in moderate snow/ice conditions. The fuel economy is naturally higher with the CVT 2WD version. The GM compact x-over is Chevy Trax and Buick Encore. Both come with the GM 1.4L Turbo and available AWD. Its AWD system is also FWD until the traction is lost and then sends power to rear wheels. Chrysler/FIAT have the Jeep Renegade and FIAT 500X. They do things a bit differently. The base engine on the FWD is a 1.4L turbo. The AWD model only uses the 2.4L engine.

I don't see anything upcoming in this segment coming from Ford though a Fiesta platform based using a base Focus engine.

So has anyone tried any of the vehicles in this class? How effective are their AWD systems? Be interesting to see a real testing beyond 0-60, 1/4 mile, 60-0 braking distance, and maneuvering. Such vehicles could offer a low cost & fuel efficient AWD vehicle. Such a vehicle could be a good tool for snowboarders, snow skiers, surfers, kayakers, and other outdoor activities.

[victimofGM]

Another question, do you think GM should consider offering the GM 2.0L diesel available on the Chevy Cruze? While it would add weight to the Encore/Trax, the high torque and high highway MPG would be an added benefit. It would have the torque for better off road AWD power AND offer very good HWY MPG.