Traditional, truck-based SUVs are also best for off-roading, thanks to their strong construction, high ground clearance, and availability of low-range gearing and locking differentials. Electronic aids are also a trend; they're designed to optimize off-road capability at the push of a button by altering the throttle response, transmission programming, stability control and suspension height.

The following is what the experts say to look for in a large SUV:

  • Cargo flexibility and comfort matter most in large SUVs. All vehicles in this class can carry at least seven people and have at least 90 cubic feet of cargo space with the seats folded and/or removed. A third row of seats is standard on most large SUV models.
  • Forget about fuel economy. If you're shopping in this size class, you're probably aware that you'll be compromising on fuel costs. Most large SUVs get about 12 to 18 mpg in mixed (city and highway) driving. The best fuel economy comes from the Chevy Tahoe Hybrid or GMC Yukon Hybrid, which utilize gasoline-electric hybrid powertrains and boast fuel-economy estimates of 21 mpg city and 22 mpg highway. Unfortunately, the hybrids cost significantly more than their conventionally powered counterparts, and they may not be worth the added expense, even with the fuel savings factored in.
  • Acceleration, handling and braking are not an SUV's strong suit due to heavy overall weight and a high center of gravity. A typical passenger car, station wagon or minivan offers superior handling, performance and fuel economy.
  • Comfort of the third row varies. Because of the high step-in height and second-row layout, most large SUVs don't offer easy access to the third row of seats. And children will probably be more comfortable back there than teens or adults. The Chevy Suburban and Ford Expedition offer the most third-row seating space, but no SUV has the kind of third-row access, legroom and headroom typically found in a minivan.
  • Experts say less than five percent of SUV owners regularly take their vehicles off road. If you're one of the other ninety-five percent, pay attention to the vehicle's on-road comfort and performance. The more nimble and car-like the better.
  • If you're considering an SUV to transport your camper or boat, make sure it's up to the task. Truck-based SUVs are better than car-based versions in this regard. The two-wheel-drive Toyota Sequoia, for example, can tow up to 10,000 pounds, which is best in the class.
  • Some SUVs are two-wheel drive, which is sufficient for many owners' needs. Many truck-based SUVs are rear-wheel drive, although all brands offer four-wheel or all-wheel drive as standard or optional equipment. AWD vehicles automatically distribute power to the wheels with the best traction and can be driven on dry roads. Four-wheel-drive vehicles allow the driver to engage all four wheels on demand, for temporary use in slippery or off-road conditions. Low-range gearing is designed for off-road use.
  • Crossover SUVs are more comfortable. If towing and off-road performance are not priorities, a midsize crossover SUV may be more comfortable and will likely be more fuel efficient. For example, the Chevrolet Traverse crossover has similar interior space as the Chevrolet Tahoe, but gets better fuel economy. Crossovers are lighter and generally have softer suspensions than truck-based SUVs. Performance and handling is usually better in a crossover too, although maximum towing capacities can be considerably lower.

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