When it comes to crossovers, functionality and comfort are key, but interior design elements can often make or break the overall user experience. One particular feature that’s sometimes overlooked is the interior steps or footwells.
For some crossovers, especially those with higher ground clearance, getting in and out can be a challenge if the steps inside the vehicle are slippery.
This can be particularly problematic in rainy or icy conditions, making it harder for passengers, particularly those with mobility issues, to enter or exit safely.
On the other hand, many modern crossovers have taken a step further by adding textured grips or non-slip surfaces to their interior steps. These features enhance stability, ensuring that occupants have a firm foothold when entering or exiting the vehicle.
Textured steps provide a more secure and comfortable experience, especially during inclement weather, ensuring a safer journey from start to finish.
This article will explore 5 crossovers with slippery interior steps that may require extra caution, as well as 5 crossovers that utilize textured grips.
We’ll delve into both categories, examining how each design impacts the user experience and what it means for drivers and passengers in terms of safety and comfort.
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5 Crossovers With Slippery Interior Steps
When choosing a crossover, many consumers prioritize convenience, safety, and accessibility. However, one aspect that sometimes gets overlooked is the design of the interior footwell or steps.
For some crossovers, particularly those with a higher ground clearance or more off-road capabilities, the interior steps can become a hazard rather than a help.
These crossovers often feature smooth, slippery footwells that make it challenging to enter or exit, especially in wet or icy conditions.
While many higher-clearance vehicles provide steps or running boards to assist with entry, the surface of these steps sometimes lacks the necessary grip to ensure safety.
A slippery footwell can lead to slips, trips, and falls, which are more than just an inconvenience—they can lead to serious injuries, particularly for elderly passengers or those with mobility challenges.
In this section, we’ll take a closer look at five crossovers that have interior steps that may be slippery.
While these vehicles excel in other areas, like off-road capability and ground clearance, they often fall short in providing the stable foothold many drivers and passengers need. Let’s explore which models have been flagged for having less-than-ideal steps and discuss the potential risks they pose.
1. 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee
The Jeep Grand Cherokee has long been a favorite for off-road enthusiasts, known for its rugged capability and luxurious interior. However, one area where it might fall short for some users is in the interior steps.
While the vehicle’s elevated design is great for off-roading and clearing rough terrain, the interior footwells can be problematic, particularly for passengers who aren’t used to climbing into higher vehicles.
The Grand Cherokee’s footwells are smooth and feature minimal texture, making it difficult to gain a secure foothold, especially in wet or icy conditions.
This can make getting in and out of the vehicle a challenge, particularly for elderly passengers or those with limited mobility. In snowy or rainy weather, the lack of grip can lead to slipping when stepping into the vehicle, which is a safety concern.
Additionally, the vehicle does offer an optional air suspension system, which can raise or lower the vehicle for easier access. However, this feature doesn’t always alleviate the problem entirely, and the smooth, slippery footwell remains an issue for many.
While the Grand Cherokee is designed for rugged terrains, its interior steps don’t match the level of practicality seen in other vehicles with textured or gripped footwells.
2. 2022 Toyota RAV4
The Toyota RAV4 is one of the best-selling compact crossovers on the market, known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and practicality.
However, when it comes to the interior design, some models—particularly those with higher ground clearance—can have slippery footwells that make entering or exiting the vehicle more difficult.
The RAV4’s interior footwells are designed with a smooth surface, which can become slippery, particularly during wet or snowy conditions.
While the vehicle’s high ground clearance provides a commanding view of the road and excellent off-road capabilities, it can also result in a steeper step-up for passengers. Without proper grip on the footwells, getting in and out of the RAV4 may feel unsteady and unsafe.
The issue becomes more apparent in certain trims like the Adventure and TRD Off-Road models, which are specifically designed for rugged outdoor activities.
These models may have an elevated ride height, but the smooth interior steps fail to provide the necessary traction to safely enter the vehicle.
The absence of textured grips on the footwells can also pose challenges for people with limited mobility, who may find it difficult to step up into the RAV4 without extra effort.
This is a common concern for many crossovers with higher ride heights, where the lack of traction inside can be just as problematic as exterior slip risks.
3. 2021 Honda CR-V
The Honda CR-V is known for its smooth drive, spacious cabin, and versatility. However, like many crossovers in the compact SUV category, the CR-V’s elevated design presents challenges when it comes to getting in and out of the vehicle.
While the CR-V does come equipped with running boards in some trims, the interior footwells themselves are often cited as being smooth, making them slippery in certain conditions.
Many owners have complained that the lack of texture in the footwells of the CR-V leads to a slippery experience when trying to enter or exit the vehicle, especially when conditions are less than ideal. On rainy or snowy days, this can present a significant challenge.
The absence of grippy surfaces means that drivers and passengers may have to be extra careful to avoid slipping and losing their balance when entering the car.
While the CR-V offers a relatively low ride height compared to other crossovers, it’s still higher than a sedan, which means passengers need to step up to get inside.
The smooth interior steps can make it harder to gain traction, making it a challenge for some people to enter the vehicle easily. This can be especially difficult for older passengers or those with physical limitations who may need extra support or grip.
4. 2020 Nissan Rogue
The 2020 Nissan Rogue is a popular compact crossover, praised for its comfortable ride and user-friendly features. However, one drawback many owners have noted is the lack of traction in the footwells, particularly when the vehicle is parked in wet or rainy conditions.
While the Rogue has a generally low step-in height compared to some other crossovers, the smooth interior steps can make it difficult to gain a secure footing when entering or exiting the vehicle.
The footwells in the Rogue feature a smooth surface that lacks textured grips or anti-slip material, making it easier for passengers to slip when stepping inside, especially if the floor mats are wet.
Though the Rogue does offer a wide, accessible entry, the lack of grip on the interior steps can cause discomfort and even accidents in adverse weather.
This is a serious concern for anyone who might be carrying heavy bags, using crutches, or simply trying to get into the car without a stable foothold.
The absence of textured or grippy surfaces inside the footwells leaves drivers and passengers with limited traction, leading to slips and possible falls.
While the Rogue is a solid choice for many buyers, the lack of attention to this crucial aspect of interior design can be a significant drawback for those looking for a safer and more accessible entry experience.
5. 2021 Subaru Outback
The 2021 Subaru Outback is a crossover wagon that stands out for its excellent all-wheel-drive capabilities and off-road prowess. Known for its rugged ability to tackle tough terrain, the Outback is a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts.
However, one aspect of the vehicle that has been critiqued by some users is the slippery interior steps, especially for those who regularly face wet or icy conditions.
The Outback’s elevated design, which is great for off-roading and ground clearance, also means that getting into the car can be a bit more difficult.
Unfortunately, the footwells of the Outback are smooth and lack the textured grip that would help secure footing when entering or exiting.
While the vehicle’s design includes a relatively low step-in height compared to larger SUVs, the interior steps can still be challenging to navigate, particularly for older passengers or those with limited mobility.
In wet weather, the lack of texture on the footwells makes it difficult for passengers to maintain their balance when stepping in.
While the Outback excels in areas like safety, durability, and off-road performance, the interior design falls short when it comes to user convenience. The smooth, slippery steps can be a concern, especially when the vehicle is used in more challenging environments.
5 Crossovers That Use Textured Grips
Now that we’ve explored crossovers with slippery interior steps, it’s time to turn our attention to vehicles that excel in providing a more secure and stable entry experience.
Crossovers with textured grips, anti-slip footwells, and strategically designed steps make getting in and out of the vehicle safer, especially in wet, snowy, or icy conditions.
These features are becoming more common as automakers recognize the importance of accessibility, especially for older adults, individuals with mobility challenges, and families with young children.
Textured grips inside the footwells serve a simple but crucial purpose: providing a firm foothold to prevent slips and falls when entering or exiting the vehicle.
These textures can vary from rubberized surfaces to more rugged patterns that ensure passengers won’t lose their balance when stepping into the car.
These types of steps are particularly beneficial in crossovers, as they often have a higher ground clearance, which can make the entry and exit process a bit more difficult for some users.
In this section, we’ll explore five crossovers that have incorporated textured grips into their footwells or steps, enhancing user safety and convenience.
These models stand out for their attention to detail, offering practical solutions to ensure that passengers can enter and exit the vehicle with confidence, no matter the weather conditions. Let’s dive into the crossovers that take interior design seriously, offering textured grips to make every journey a little safer.
1. 2021 Ford Escape
The 2021 Ford Escape is a compact crossover that’s known for its user-friendly features, spacious interior, and efficient performance. One aspect that makes the Escape stand out is its thoughtfully designed interior, particularly when it comes to the footwells and steps.
The 2021 Escape has textured grips on the interior steps, which provide a much-needed layer of safety when entering or exiting the vehicle.
Ford has included rubberized, anti-slip surfaces in the footwells of the Escape, helping to prevent passengers from slipping, even in rainy or snowy conditions.
This is particularly important for drivers or passengers who are frequently on the go or who need to enter and exit the vehicle quickly.
The textured surfaces ensure that the footwells are not only functional but also safer, especially for those who might be carrying bags or kids and need a stable step.
In addition to the textured footwells, the Ford Escape offers optional step bars for added accessibility, which further enhance stability for passengers.
This combination of textured footwells and optional running boards makes the Escape a standout for safety and convenience, ensuring that both the driver and passengers can enter and exit with ease.
This design feature is particularly important for families, elderly passengers, and those with limited mobility, ensuring that the Escape is a practical vehicle for a wide range of drivers.
2. 2021 Mazda CX-5
The 2021 Mazda CX-5 stands out in the compact crossover segment for its premium interior, engaging driving dynamics, and impressive attention to detail — especially when it comes to comfort and safety.
One area where the CX-5 excels is in its thoughtful interior design, which includes the use of textured grips in the footwells. These anti-slip surfaces offer a noticeable advantage when compared to smoother interior steps found in some other crossovers.
Mazda has paid close attention to the tactile elements inside the CX-5. The footwells feature subtly patterned textures and durable rubber surfaces that improve grip underfoot, particularly during wet or icy conditions.
These non-slip materials help reduce the risk of passengers slipping when entering or exiting the vehicle — a safety feature that’s especially appreciated by older adults, families with young children, and those with mobility concerns.
The CX-5’s textured design extends to other elements as well, including rubberized door sills and supportive step angles that make the entry and exit process feel natural and stable.
Unlike some crossovers that focus purely on aesthetics, Mazda balances style with function, ensuring the materials used inside the vehicle are both attractive and practical. This attention to ergonomics is what helps the CX-5 offer an elevated user experience.
Additionally, the low step-in height of the CX-5 complements the textured grip, creating a seamless and safe transition for occupants getting in and out. Combined with wide door openings and a thoughtfully designed cabin, the CX-5 makes entry and exit feel smooth and secure — no matter the conditions outside.
Mazda’s dedication to driver and passenger comfort is evident throughout the CX-5’s cabin, but the inclusion of grippy, textured footwells sets it apart as a smart choice for those who prioritize safety.
In environments where traction matters — like rainy city streets or snowy driveways — this crossover ensures a confident step every time.
With its sleek design and user-friendly features, the 2021 Mazda CX-5 proves that even small design choices can make a big difference in everyday usability.
3. 2021 Subaru Forester
The 2021 Subaru Forester has long been a favorite among those who need a reliable and practical crossover with excellent off-road capabilities. One of the standout features of the Forester is its attention to detail when it comes to interior accessibility.
Subaru has equipped the Forester with textured grips on the footwells, which are designed to provide a secure footing for passengers when getting in and out of the vehicle.
These textured grips are especially useful for the Forester, given its higher ground clearance and rugged nature, which might make it more challenging for some drivers or passengers to enter or exit the vehicle.
The textured surface helps prevent slips and falls, especially during wet or icy conditions, making it a safer choice for those who need a secure grip when stepping into the vehicle. This feature is especially appreciated by outdoor enthusiasts who take their Forester off the beaten path, where muddy or wet conditions can make foot placement a bit more precarious.
The Forester’s interior also offers additional safety features, such as larger door openings and a low step-in height, which further enhance accessibility for all passengers.
Together, these features make the Subaru Forester a great option for families, elderly passengers, or anyone who needs a vehicle that offers both off-road capabilities and interior comfort.
By incorporating textured grips in the footwells, Subaru has shown that it understands the importance of user safety, especially when it comes to the challenges of stepping in and out of a higher-riding vehicle.
The 2021 Forester’s design reflects this commitment to practicality and safety, making it a top contender in the compact SUV category.
4. 2021 Toyota Highlander
The 2021 Toyota Highlander is a midsize crossover SUV that delivers on space, comfort, and utility. As one of the most well-rounded vehicles in its segment, the Highlander has been designed to offer a seamless experience for passengers of all ages, from children to seniors.
One of the standout features of the Highlander is its textured footwells, which are engineered to provide a secure grip when getting in or out of the vehicle.
The Highlander’s interior steps are equipped with rubberized, anti-slip surfaces that ensure a stable footing, even in challenging weather conditions.
This is especially important for families or anyone who frequently drives in wet, snowy, or icy conditions, where slipping can be a major concern. The textured grips on the footwells allow passengers to confidently step into the vehicle without fear of losing their balance or footing.
In addition to the textured footwells, the Toyota Highlander offers convenient step bars in some trims, which can further improve accessibility for passengers.
These features, combined with the vehicle’s spacious interior and low step-in height, make the Highlander an ideal choice for families and older drivers who prioritize safety and convenience.
The Highlander’s design reflects Toyota’s commitment to creating vehicles that are not only comfortable but also practical and accessible for everyone.
With its thoughtful design elements and attention to safety, the 2021 Toyota Highlander is a prime example of how crossovers can incorporate textured grips to improve overall accessibility and user experience.
Whether you’re heading to the store, taking a road trip, or going on an outdoor adventure, the Highlander ensures that you can enter and exit the vehicle with ease and confidence.
5. 2021 Hyundai Tucson
The 2021 Hyundai Tucson is a compact crossover that stands out for its modern design, efficient performance, and user-friendly features.
One of the highlights of the Tucson is its attention to interior safety and accessibility, particularly through the incorporation of textured footwells.
These rubberized grips offer a secure and stable surface for passengers, ensuring a safe entry and exit experience even in wet or slippery conditions.
Unlike many crossovers that feature smooth or slippery footwells, the 2021 Tucson’s textured surfaces provide excellent traction, reducing the risk of slipping when entering or exiting the vehicle. This is especially beneficial during rainy or snowy weather, when a stable step can prevent accidents.
The textured footwells are particularly helpful for elderly passengers, families with young children, or anyone with mobility challenges who need extra support when getting in or out of the vehicle.
In addition to the textured footwells, the Tucson offers a low step-in height, making it easier for passengers to enter and exit the vehicle without much effort. The combination of these design elements makes the Tucson a standout in terms of accessibility and safety.
Whether you’re running errands or taking a long road trip, the Tucson ensures that you can enjoy a secure and stable experience every time you step inside.
Hyundai’s commitment to user safety is evident in the Tucson’s interior design, which prioritizes comfort, ease of use, and stability. For those who want a crossover that combines practicality with modern features, the 2021 Hyundai Tucson is a top choice, offering a safe and accessible driving experience for all.
In conclusion, the importance of interior design in crossovers, especially when it comes to the steps and footwells, cannot be overstated.
While many vehicles prioritize aesthetics and performance, safety features like textured grips and non-slip footwells are critical for ensuring that passengers can enter and exit the vehicle with ease and security.
Whether you’re navigating wet, icy, or muddy conditions, a crossover with textured grips can make all the difference in providing a safe, stable experience.
The crossovers with slippery interior steps, such as the Jeep Grand Cherokee, Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Nissan Rogue, and Subaru Outback, exemplify the risks posed by smooth footwells.
While these vehicles excel in other areas, like off-road capabilities or overall performance, their lack of textured surfaces in the footwells can make it harder to maintain traction when entering or exiting the vehicle, especially in inclement weather.
This issue is particularly concerning for elderly passengers, people with limited mobility, and those carrying heavy bags or small children.
On the other hand, the crossovers equipped with textured grips, like the Ford Escape, Honda CR-V, Subaru Forester, Toyota Highlander, and Hyundai Tucson, offer a much more secure and stable experience.
These vehicles take into account the importance of accessibility, ensuring that both the driver and passengers can easily and safely step in and out of the vehicle.
The textured footwells or optional step bars found in these models provide peace of mind, making them excellent choices for families, older adults, or anyone who prioritizes safety and comfort.
Ultimately, crossovers with thoughtful interior design—particularly when it comes to non-slip steps and footwells—show how manufacturers are evolving to meet the needs of a diverse and safety-conscious consumer base.
As vehicle design continues to prioritize both functionality and comfort, the inclusion of these simple yet effective features will continue to improve the user experience, making it easier and safer for everyone to enjoy the ride.
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