USED CARS - SUVs

Among mid-sized SUVs, the Honda Pilot (*est. $27,100 to $34,900, depending on options) wins over five experts, including Car and Driver, where editors named the Pilot best mainstream SUV three years in a row. Automobile Magazine describes the Pilot as the best SUV for families. The Pilot is based on the more luxurious Acura MDX, (which picks up an award from Kiplinger's) but is larger and less expensive. In turn, both the Pilot and the Acura are based upon the very successful Honda Odyssey minivan platform. The Pilot can seat up to eight people with its important third-row seating and has lots of cargo room in a relatively compact space.

Critics note that the Pilot handles well on the road and is reasonably capable off-road. It is rated to tow 3,500 pounds, and 4,500 pounds for boats (which are easier to tow because of their decreased wind resistance). The Pilot is also quite quick for its size, able to reach 60 miles-per-hour in about 7.9 seconds. The second and third rows are split 60/40 and can be folded flat�Edmunds lauds this versatility�the Pilot achieves a whopping 90.3 cubic feet of cargo space when the seats are folded. Experts say the Pilot is a terrifically well-rounded vehicle with insightful design touches, such as conveniently placed storage for small items and an optional rear-seat DVD system. Car and Driver says the Pilot is simply "very good at everything."

Subaru's Forester (*est. $21,900 to $28,800 depending on options) is the best choice among small SUVs, and it's the most compact model in our Fast Answers chart. The turbocharged 2.5L version gets particularly good marks, with an award for best 2005 small SUV from Car and Driver, and an Editor's Choice award at New Car Test Drive. Its 0 to 60 time of 5.3 seconds impresses many reviewers, who claim it is plain fun to drive. Based on the sporty Impreza compact car, this practical SUV is basically a tall station wagon, but reviewers say it offers excellent traction on slippery surfaces and in moderate off-road conditions.

The Forester's ride and handling are good and crash-test results are impressive, with the Forester rating the highest possible scores in government safety tests. Reviewers describe the seats as comfortable and highly supportive, although there are only two rows (the larger Pilot has a third row). Rear-seat passengers reportedly have good head and legroom. The back seat folds into the floor for more cargo space of 64.1 cubic feet, a third less than that of the larger Pilot. Safety features include ABS and breakaway foot pedals. The Forester's airbag system includes front airbags with dual stages for the passenger, and side-impact airbags in the front. Overall the Forester is an excellent value for those with limited hauling and passenger carrying needs.

A more luxurious image comes at higher cost, but if you want a commodious interior and higher-end features, the Cadillac SRX wins praise from reviewers including Car and Driver, Consumer Guide and Kiplinger's, where it is praised for styling and practicality. Editors at Automotive.com claim the SRX drives like a European sports sedan and note "its edgy styling stands out in a sea of boxy sport-utilities and minivans". Consumer Guide likes the SRX's road manners and packaging, and claim it is among the best in performance, features, and accommodations for those with mostly on-road, no-tow needs. Kiplinger's rates the V8 model as best overall, while the V6 model (standard package (*est. $37,000 to $39,000, depending on options) ) wins a ranking of best for fuel economy and safety. Car and Driver calls it the "class of its class".

The standard V-6 Cadillac SRX seats five. (Third-row, fold-flat seating is optional with luxury packages starting at about $45,000.) The second row seat powers back and forth for added legroom or added cargo space. Automotive.com notes that the interior is stylish, comfortable and practical, with easy to operate controls, including window switches. Safety features include side airbags, a tire pressure monitoring system, ABS, traction control, and an electronic stability control system. Crash-test figures are good. The SRX is available with GM's Magnetic Ride Control suspension that automatically adjusts firmness based on road surface. Experts like this feature, but it's only available with models optioned with the luxury package (starting at *est. $50,000).

The venerable Toyota 4Runner (*est. $27,800 to $37,800, depending on options) scores lots of praise for its off-road capabilities. Motor Trend notes its competence at tackling serious off-road trails as well as snow and ice. Testers at Automotive.com note that the 4Runner excels off-road while also being smooth, quiet and highly sophisticated. Edmund's considers the 4Runner the best SUV for those seeking both on and off-road performance. Predictable Toyota reliability and resale value make the 4Runner a top pick. Performance of both V6 and V8 models is better than last year's models, due to changes in both engines and transmissions.

The interior is described by Automotive.com as roomy, functional and comfortable. Quality of interior materials is good, as is their fit and finish. An optional third-row seat increases the standard five-passenger capacity to seven. The third seat can be folded over or removed to regain cargo space. Safety features include an electronic stability control system, four-wheel ABS, traction control and a tire pressure monitoring system. A unique safety feature is the hydrophilic glass used in the 4Runner's windshield, side windows, and side mirrors. This glass repels water like a waxed car or a window that has been treated with Rain-X. The resulting large drops of water are quickly shed by gravity or wind.

Two nearly identical General Motors full-sized SUVs, the Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon (*est. $35,900 to $45,400, depending on model and options) win more praise from critics than any other SUV in their class. Though these brutish trucks can seat up to nine passengers and tow more than four tons, they ride smoothly and are reasonably competent off-road. Experts say these SUVs are more maneuverable than other vehicles with comparable passenger and towing capability. In fact, the turning circle of these large GM trucks is as tight as that of some mid-sized cars when equipped with optional four-wheel steering. This feature, however, will add significantly to the price, which puts it squarely in the Luxury class (see our report on Luxury SUVs).

The Chevrolet Suburban and GMC Yukon XL (*est. 38,600 to 51,500, depending on model and options) are mechanically identical to the Tahoe and Yukon, but are built on a stretched frame that gives them increased cargo room at the expense of maneuverability. The more compact versions win more critical favor.

We found some mixed reviews for the Volkswagon Touareg (*est. $34,900 to $43,000, depending on model and options) . Only the V6 variant can be had for under $40,000, the price cutoff for our report (see our separate report on luxury SUVs for pricier options). Although Motor Trend awards the Touareg Sport-Utility-of-the-Year accolades for 2004, the reception is somewhat less enthusiastic at Car and Driver. Motor Trend's editors love the Touareg's design lines as well as its interior, noted as "fresh, contemporary, adult." Car and Driver concedes the Touareg is "handsome," but has major quibbles with driving "oomph" for the money.

The Touareg V-6, according to Car and Driver, lacks prowess, straining to make 60 mph in just less than 10 seconds, decidedly slower than the V-8 equipped Touareg. Editors felt the less-powerful engine was sluggish under the truck's weight, but that it handled well, in general. Motor Trend has strong praise for the Touareg's adjustable pneumatic suspension, which can vary the ride height (and thus suspension) from a suburbanly 6.3-inch height up to an off-road-worthy 11.8-inches. Car and Driver isn't quite as overwhelmed, noting that the option adds $2,300 to the price.

While Motor Trend's editors say the Touareg is a good value compared to the likes of the Porsche Cayenne and BMW X3, Car and Driver isn't as bullish: "Convincing Americans that a Volkswagen SUV deserves to be cross-shopped with today's luxury nameplates is a steep hill the Touareg is faced with." While the Touareg is an interesting entry, Car and Driver's hesitation over the V-6 Touareg convinced us to pass on including it in Fast Answers. The V-8 variant will be addressed in our separate report on luxury SUVs.

Other options

The Acura MDX (*est. $37,000 to $44,000) is much loved by reviewers, and it's the higher-end cousin to the Honda Pilot. They praise this roomy, luxurious seven-passenger SUV for having a refined, yet sporty ride, an innovative third row seat (for kids) that can fold into the floor for more cargo space and for its reliability. The MDX gets added entertainment features for 2005.

The Volvo XC90 (*est. $35,000 to $45,000, depending on options) has gotten some positive reviews. Motor Trend liked it enough to give it Sport/Utility of the Year honors in 2003, even over similarly priced competitors like the Lincoln Aviator, Isuzu Ascender and Toyota 4Runner. The XC90 has excellent all-weather capability, a car-like ride and handling and impressive off-road ability. Engine options include a 208-horsepower turbo-charged inline 5-cylinder engine and a twin turbo inline 6-cylinder engine with 268 horsepower. The base engine allows for decent fuel economy, but only adequate acceleration. The 6-cylinder engine, though less efficient, lets the XC90 accelerate crisply; it can reach 60 mph in 8.9 seconds.

Honda's compact CR-V (*est. $20,000 to $25,000, depending on options) offers great versatility and is a good choice among inexpensive SUVs. The five-passenger CR-V is based loosely on Honda's highly regarded Civic platform. The CR-V is roomier, better handling, more reliable and more efficient than its competitors. The CR-V gets special mention at Kiplinger's for retaining a high resale value. Overall, however, we found more recent good reviews for the Subaru Forester.

The Infiniti FX35 (*est. $35,000 to $36,000) , which debuted for the 2003 model year, was last year's top choice among premium SUVs and is still a good pick, especially for those who want to emphasize 'sport' as opposed to 'utility'. The Infiniti features a smooth, advanced V6 engine generating 280 horsepower. The Infiniti's cargo capacity is somewhat less than competing vehicles, such as the Lexus RX330 and Acura MDX. So, if you regularly carry a lot of stuff, they may be better choices. Critics laud the FX's aggressive styling and build quality.

The Buick Rendezvous (*est. $27,000 to $39,000) is not a reviewer favorite. Experts cite its less exemplary off-road ability and relative lack of refinement compared to the best vehicles in this class. The Buick is based on parent company General Motors' minivans, and thus is roomier, but less competent off-road than most other SUVs. It seats four to seven adults, depending on how it's optioned. A 3.6-liter, 245-horsepower engine is available on premium editions, an improvement over the smaller 185-horsepower base engine. New for 2005 is a passenger-sensing system for the passenger's side front seat, which turns off the airbag if it detects a child (or very small person) or no occupant. This is intended to avoid possibly injuries to children and/or unnecessary deployment of the airbag.

BMW's X3 (*est. $30,000 to $35,000) is a compact all-wheel-drive wagon. It has virtually the same passenger space as the larger X5 and has more cargo volume. The X3 is available with both a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine and 3.0-liter 6-cylinder. Both team with a 6-speed manual transmission or optional 5-speed automatic with manual shift gate. The X3 seats five and is intended for only light-duty off-road work.

Chevrolet's TrailBlazer, GMC's Envoy and the Isuzu's Ascender (*est. $28,000 to $39,000) all share the same platform and engine choices, differing only in trim, cosmetics and warranty. Experts say these are decent trucks for the money, especially when priced under $35,000. They all have a smooth, powerful in-line six cylinder engine as standard with a V8 engine as an option. These SUVs do not appear to excel in any one area, according to critics, but they are generally competent all around both off-road and on.

The Ford Explorer (*est. $27,000 to $38,000) started the SUV craze and remains among the most popular models. It was redesigned in 2003 with an independent rear suspension that gives it a commendably smooth ride and allows for an available third-row seat. In response to safety concerns stemming from a high tire-failure rate with the older model, Ford has installed many safety features with the redesign, including a standard tire-pressure monitoring system. Critics like the Explorer, but it garnered few top picks for 2005.

Honda's Element (*est. $18,000 to $22,000) is shorter and wider than the CR-V on which it is based. It has innovative features such as a sliding roof panel, an easy-to-clean rubber floor and wide-opening center-hinged side doors. Some critics have questioned its aggressive styling, which is meant to appeal to twenty-somethings.

In the lower-cost category, Hyundai's Santa Fe (*est. $22,000 to $27,000) is cited by experts as a good value. For 2005 it includes an extensive list of standard convenience, safety and trim features. Styling has been revised with a new grille, tail-lights, and rear bumper. Although some reviewers had favorable impressions of the Hyundai, there were caveats, including a traditionally low resale value. Long-term dependability is also a concern with some reviewers, but this may be alleviated by a long warranty (ten years/100,000 miles on powertrain and five years/60,000 miles bumper to bumper). Based on the reviews we've found, the Santa Fe appears to be a good choice among lower-priced SUVs.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee (*est. $32,000 to 34,000) is highly regarded by critics for combining all-around capability in a tidy, easy-to-park package, and it has been redesigned for 2005. Experts say the Grand Cherokee rides adequately on paved roads and is one of the most capable off-road vehicles you can buy. Though it lacks the passenger and cargo room some large families may need, it is highly maneuverable. The old 4.7-liter V8 remains available in 2005 as well as a new 5.7-liter Hemi V8. With the new Hemi, the Jeep becomes one of the fastest SUVs, able to reach 60 mph in about seven seconds. Edmunds.com says it retains its classic style and unparalleled off-road ability while delivering a level of luxury never before seen in a Jeep. For off-road use, the Jeep is a good choice, but reviewers select other vehicles for their better road manners and superior gas mileage.

Experts say the Jeep Wrangler (*est. $18,000 to $29,000) is extremely competent and agile off-road, with the ability to go places that would stop almost any other SUV, including all of the models in Fast Answers. Jeeps are also ruggedly built and have high resale values. Experts caution, however, that the Jeep has a harsh ride and what some describe as a cramped interior. New for the 2005 model year is a long wheelbase version as well as the new Wrangler Rubicon. Jeep examined the modifications many off-road enthusiasts were making, and engineered many of those features into the new Rubicon model. Automotive.com describes the new Rubicon as a 4x4 gem.

Since replacing the Jeep Cherokee, the Liberty (*est. $19,000 to $27,000) has garnered some favorable reviews. Like all Jeeps, this compact five-passenger vehicle is competent in extreme off-road conditions. This competence comes at the expense of on-road ability, however. An advanced, 2.7-liter common-rail diesel engine is available for 2005 for class leading fuel economy. The diesel is backed by a five-speed overdrive automatic transmission. A new, six-speed manual transmission replaces the previous five-speed manual.

The Mercury Mountaineer (*est. $30,000 to $36,000) is based on the Explorer chassis, but with a more stylish interior and a different all-wheel drive system that favors on-road traction to off-road ability. In addition, a third row seat comes standard on the Mountaineer. Critics say it is a decent choice, offering a smooth ride and plenty of room.

The Kia Sorento (*est. $20,000 to $26,000) is reasonably refined and represents an excellent value, according to experts. Even base models feature air conditioning, power windows and locks and cruise control. Four-wheel-drive models offer decent off-road ability. All models come with a 192-horsepower V6 that offers adequate performance. Resale value is a question mark for this relatively new entry to the market, but reviewers are impressed with the value Kia brings to the SUV market.

On the other end of the price spectrum is the Lexus RX330 (*est. $36,000 to $37,500, depending on options) . The Lexus RX 330 was redesigned and introduced as an all-new model for 2004. Experts say it is among the most car-like SUVs available, praising its quick acceleration, smooth ride and good handling. The second-generation RX330 is described as swift and silent, riding more quietly than most cars, not to mention other SUVs. Critics note that the RX330 handles more like a luxury car or minivan than an SUV since its underlying structure is based on the Toyota Camry. However, these passenger-car roots and a lack of low-range gearing mean the RX330 is not particularly well suited for rugged off-road conditions and can only tow 3,500 pounds. If loaded with options, this SUV easily exceeds the $40,000 cut-off we established to separate regular SUVs from luxury variants. For those seeking a more refined vehicle which won't see off-road use, the Lexus RX300 ranks highly with reviewers.

Critics praise the Nissan Xterra (*est. $21,000 to $27,000) for its back-to-basics approach. This ruggedly constructed SUV offers an adequate ride and seating for five at a low starting price. The Xterra has been completely redesigned for the 2005-model year. NewCarTestDrive describes it as considerably improved. The new model has more power, more room and carefully thought-out utility features. The Xterra now has a 4.0L engine with 250-plus horsepower and 270 lb./ft. of torque. The engine is an increased displacement version of Nissan's 3.5-liter VQ engine found in the 350Z. Safety features were upgraded as well, with an available side-curtain airbag system for rollover protection. Critics say the Xterra's low-range gearing and pickup-truck-based frame allow it to go off-road easily, but also makes for a bumpy ride. Though not best in class, this SUV remains a solid choice.

Toyota's car-based RAV4 (*est. $18,750 to $21,000) was redesigned for the 2004 model year and critics praise its build quality and handling. Based on a version of Toyota's Camry, the RAV4 offers all-wheel-drive in a tall, but compact, body. This is one of the smallest and least powerful SUVs on the market and the similarly priced Mazda Tribute/Ford Escape in back-to-back comparisons outclasses the Camry's performance. It is, however, among the most reliable small SUVs on the road, a trait the Escape/Tribute can't boast. Another redesign for 2006 is rumored.

Ford's new Freestyle ($25,700 to $31,100) is equipped with a constantly variable transmission (CVT) that results in reviewers at Car and Driver objecting to high levels of engine noise under acceleration. However the vehicle is quiet at highway speeds, like a much more expensive vehicle. One reviewer labels the Freestyle as a "stylish alternative to the dreaded minivan" due to its low step-in, seating for seven and useful cargo space. Overall the Freestyle gets positive reviews in a crowded segment, but fails to outclass segment leaders.

Important Features

The following is what the experts say to consider when shopping for an SUV:

• An SUV should be roomy, with lots of cargo space. Most of the vehicles in this class can carry at least five people in a pinch, and have adequate cargo space. A third row of seats (which allows the vehicle to accommodate seven to nine passengers) is standard or optional on some models, including the Chevrolet Tahoe, Honda Pilot, Toyota Sequoia, Volvo XC90 and Ford Expedition.

• SUVs have a deserved reputation as gas-guzzlers. Most get about 14 to 19 miles-per-gallon in mixed (city and highway) driving. To be environmentally responsible, and to keep costs down in the face of rising gas prices, you might look for one of the more efficient vehicles in this class, like the Ford Escape Hybrid, Subaru Forester, Toyota RAV4 or Honda CR-V

• Acceleration, handling and braking are not an SUV's strong suit due to the vehicles' heavy overall weight and high center of gravity. The best models reach 60 mph in no more than 10 seconds, corner at no more than .70 g, and stop from 60 mph in 150 feet or less, numbers that don't compare well to most sedans.

• Less than 5% of SUV owners regularly take their vehicles off-road. If you're one of the other 95%, pay attention to the vehicle's on-road comfort and performance. The more nimble and car-like it is, the better. In general, SUVs based on passenger car frames, like the Ford Escape, Mazda Tribute or Honda CR-V have the most car-like rides.

• One thing most SUVs can do better than other types of vehicles is tow. If you're considering an SUV to transport your camper or boat, make sure it's up to the task. Large, truck-based SUVs like the Dodge Durango, Chevy Tahoe/GMC Yukon and Ford Expedition can tow more than four tons. Car-based SUVs have much lower towing capacities.

Our Consensus Report shows how many times products are top-ranked by reviewers included in our
All The Reviews Reviewed chart.

# of Picks	Model (With Retailer Links)	Details from Edmunds.com
5	Honda Pilot (*est. $27,100 to $34,900, depending on options)	details
4	Cadillac SRX (*est. $37,000 to $39,000, depending on options)	details
4	Toyota 4Runner (*est. $27,800 to $37,800, depending on options)	details
3	Subaru Forester (*est. $21,900 to $28,800 depending on options)	details
2	Chevrolet Equinox (*est. $21,900 to $25,300, depending on options)	details
2	Chevrolet Suburban (*est. $38,600 to $51,500) / Tahoe (*est. $35,900 to $45,400, depending on model and options)	details
2	Honda CR-V (*est. $20,000 to $25,000, depending on options)	details
2	Toyota Rav4 (*est. $18,750 to $21,000)	details
2	Lexus RX330 (*est. $36,000 to $37,500, depending on options)	details
1 each	Ford Escape / Mazda Tribute , Ford Escape Hybrid , Ford Expedition , Ford Freestyle , Infiniti FX35 , Toyota Land Cruiser , Volkswagon Touareg , Land Rover Range Rover , Land Rover LR3 , Acura MDX , Jeep Liberty , Dodge Durango , Nissan Armada

Our consensus chart also includes a number of luxury SUVs, which are addressed in our separate report (Luxury SUVs). However, vehicles such as the Cadillac SRX, with both a V6 and V8 option, can fit into both mainstream and luxury categories, depending on options.

The Honda Pilot and Cadillac SRX earn their spots in Fast Answers by winning over four reviewers. The Subaru Forester and the Toyota 4Runner both win three times The Chevrolet Equinox wins both a Motor Trend road test and Edmund's comparative value evaluation, and the Chevrolet Suburban/Tahoe, Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V and Lexus RX330 also win twice.

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