I think they are very different from just a lifted car. They are not only higher off the ground (which dramatically affects their feeling of plantedness and stability while driving) but they are also much taller, less aerodynamic, boxier, and less nimble. There are good exceptions (Mazda CX50, Porsche Macan, etc) but otherwise crossovers are generally much less fun to drive, and in some cases actually have less cargo space than a comparable wagon. And they are probably harder to parallel park!