Think of some top rated SUVs, you imagine big, gigantic machines that roar when you drive, and provide you extreme comfort and good fuel economy. This article is an honest work to help you seek some of the world’s best SUVs.
The world today is going crazy over the introduction of new and improved SUVs. Today, more and more people are getting attracted to the SUV genre, than ever before. There is something different about an SUV, and usually this difference can only be understood by people who love SUVs. Whenever an SUV zooms down the road, I feel it owns it, no offense to any sedans and hatchbacks out there. The big engine, the structure and size are enough to let all the cars on the road know that their big brother has arrived. As effects of the economic recession are slowing down, we are witnessing the entry of some good SUVs in the automobile market. But which one to choose? Which is the best suited for you? Let’s find out…
Best SUVs
The current year comes with a lot of promise and good hopes from the automobile industry. A great line of top rated SUVs – expensive and economical have been launched in the market, and here is a look at those models which have received excellent reviews from critics and consumers.
Cadillac Escalade
Ranked at #1 without a doubt, Cadillac Escalade is one of the top rated large SUVs, that has become a favorite of all in no time. Big on power, big on comfort, and big in size, it comes with a 6.2 liter V8 engine, that offers a 400 HP. It is one of the few AWD vehicles, which scores high points in comfort and space. The amazing exterior is probably the most attractive feature of this car. Additional features of this great SUV include; a fully automatic climate control, heated leather seats, Bose audio system, GPS and satellite navigation and even a rear view camera. Unlike other SUVs, where speed is hampered because of the heavy weight, consumers face no such problem while driving the Escalade. The cost of Cadillac Escalade starts from $63,495 and it is my #1 pick for the year 2011.
Mercedes-Benz-GL-Class
The biggest advantage of the Mercedes-Benz GL Class is the large extra space that you can’t find in other SUVs. Most SUV makers use a truck platform as the basis of the SUV, but not Mercedes, they have built a modern decor on a car platform. This new technology helps in providing good speed and a better grip on the road. This German SUV is for people who follow road manners and have a better control on the speed of a car. With comfortable seating for 7 and an excellent AWD system, the price range starts from $57,866, and it stands tall on the best SUVs list.
Mazda CX-9
The new Mazda CX-9 is available in three variants – Sports, Touring and Grand Touring. All three models have all automatic features that any SUV fanatic would want to see. They contain ABS, tire pressure monitoring system, stability control, dual front side mounted air bags, front, rear and third row head airbags, privacy glass power windows, mirrors and door locks, cruise control, three zone climate control and an AM/FM in-dash single CD player with 6 speakers. All the three models are powered with 3.7L V6 engine, and the price range of the Mazda CX-9 starts from $27,521.
Nissan Pathfinder
The Nissan Pathfinder is one of the most beautiful SUVs I have ever come across, and its 4 Wheel Drive system only adds up to the desirability factor. It comes with a 4.0 V6 engine, ABS, traction control, stability control, 16-inch alloy wheels, key less entry, a CD stereo, powered seats, dual front and side airbags. In addition to the power of V6 engine, the car has good cargo and leg space, and it was awarded a 5 star rating by many car critics. If you regularly drive on mountain sides and on rough roads, then the Nissan Pathfinder is the car for you. It starts from $28,706 and is a favorite with countryside people.
Honda Pilot
Another award-winning SUV from the Japanese major, the Pilot is still considered one of the best SUVs in the automobile market. The Pilot offers comfortable seating for 8 and provides a better performance with its 3.5 liter V6 Honda J engine. Additional features include; all season floor mats, leather steering wheel, Honda DVD entertainment system, back up sensors for comfortable parking and GPS and even a rare view camera. The award-winning Pilot is available for $40,000.
Top Rated SUVs and Crossovers
A crossover is mixture of your regular sedan and SUV. Being specific, it is a vehicle built on a car platform and its body is loosely inspired from the traditional SUV.
Chevrolet Equinox
Engine: 2.4-liter DOHC 4-cylinder
EPA Fuel Mileage: 22 city/32 highway
Price: $23,360
Toyota Venza
Engine: 3.5-liter DOHC V6 with dual VVT-i
EPA Fuel Mileage: 18 city/25 highway
Price: $29,250
Honda Crosstour
Engine: 3.5-liter, 24-Valve, V-6
EPA Fuel Mileage: 18 city/27 highway
Price: $29,670
Acura ZDX
Engine: 3.7-liter V6-cylinder
EPA Fuel Mileage: 16 city/22 highway
Price: $45,495
Volvo XC60
Engine: 3.0-liter, 24-valve DOHC inline 6-cylinder
EPA Fuel Mileage: 16 city/22 highway
Price: $37,200
Infiniti FX50
Engine: 5.0-liter, 32-valve DOHC V8
EPA Fuel Mileage: 14 city/20 highway
Price: $56,700
Lincoln MKT EcoBoost
Engine: 3.5-liter EcoBoost twin- turbocharged V6
EPA Fuel Mileage: 16 city/22 highway
Price: $49,200
Dodge Journey
Engine: 3.5-liter V6
EPA Fuel Mileage: 19 city/25 highway
Price: $21,165
Cadillac SRX
Engine: 3.0-liter V6
EPA Fuel Mileage: 18 city/25 highway
Price: $33,830
Mazda CX-7
Engine: 2.5-liter inline 4-cylinder
EPA Fuel Mileage: 20 city/28 highway
Price: $22,450
Top Rated 3rd Row Seating SUVs
Some people prefer their SUVs with some extra seating. So if you are one of those with a big family, then the following SUVs would be perfect for you.
- Acura MDX
- Audi Q7
- BMW X5
- Buick Enclave
- Chevrolet Suburban
- Chevrolet Tahoe
- Chevy Traverse
- Dodge Journey
- Ford Flex
- Ford Expedition
Top Rated Compact SUVs
SUVs are not only for those with a big budget and big a parking lot. Enter a new generation of compact SUVs, which are small in size and on your pocket.
- Subaru Forester
- Toyota RAV4
- Nissan Rogue
- Ford Escape Hybrid
- Honda CR-V
- Volkswagen Tiguan
- Suzuki Grand Vitara
- Mitsubishi Outlander
Top Rated Luxury SUVs
This list is truly SUV. Mentioned below are some of the top names that dominate the SUV car market. If budget and space is not an issue for you, then the cars in this list are for you.
- Land Rover Range Rover
- Lexus LX
- Land Rover Range Rover Sport
- Hummer H2
- Toyota Land Cruiser
- Lincoln Navigator
- Cadillac Escalade Hybrid
So these were some handpicked names of the best SUVs in the United States. You will notice that the prices of some cars are not mentioned in the lists, it is because the price varies with the state. So get in touch with your nearest car dealer and get detailed information on these brands, and get a test drive to select your favorite SUV.
