Best SUV

Finding the best SUV can be an experience fraught with obstacles. There are many more options available today than there were just a few years ago. To help narrow down the selection, here are some of the most popular SUVs based on manufacturer sales figures and consumer reviews.

1.

 The compact RAV4 is now a third generation vehicle and is often thought to be the best SUV on the market today. Toyota has added a more aerodynamic ride, more powerful engine, and for the first time, optional third-row seating. Being able to go from 0 to 60 in less than 7 seconds with the optional 3.5-liter 269-horsepower V6, gives the RAV4 sporty handling while still providing a car-like ride. If 0 to 60 isn't your thing, the RAV4 comes standard with a 2.4 liter 166-horsepower 4-cylinder that also gives the driver good handling and a car-like ride. Base price for the RAV4 is around $21,000.

2.

 This SUV is a throwback to the FJ40 Toyota sold in the US from the 1960's through the 1980's. This gives the FJ Cruiser uniquely bold styling to make it stand out from the crowd. Powered by a 4.0 liter 239 horsepower V6 engine and either a 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission. Base price for the FJ Cruiser starts around $22,000.

3.

 This SUV got a makeover for 2007, a bold new look; it also received a horsepower gain with its new 2.4-liter DOHC-VTEC 4-cylinder engine providing 166 horsepower. Don't let the foreign name fool you. As of 2007, all CR-Vs are made in East Liberty, Ohio. Base price for the CR-V starts around $21,000.

4.

 In 2007 the Jeep Wrangler became available in a 4-door model for the first time. Known for its ability off road, the 2007 Wrangler boasts higher ground clearance, a longer wheelbase, and a wider track. Providing power to this Wrangler is a 205 horsepower 3.8-liter V6 engine. Base price for the Jeep Wrangler starts around $20,000.

5.

 For the past 15 years the Ford Explorer has been the best-selling SUV in America, selling almost 5.5 million vehicles. With three rows of seating, the Explorer is quite spacious inside. You have two options to power your Explorer - the base 210 horsepower V6 engine, or the 292 horsepower V8 engine. Base price for the Explorer starts around $25,000.

6.

 The Chevy Tahoe has been the recipient of an all-new makeover for 2007, including a new exterior style, improved fuel economy, and a more powerful engine. To provide a quieter ride, Chevy used noise-reducing components throughout the body structure. This SUV has a 320 horsepower, 5.3-liter V8 using Active Fuel Management and E85 fuel capable technology. Base price for the Tahoe starts around $35,000.

7.

 The two-wheel drive Honda Pilot features a 3.5-liter V6 with variable cylinder management (VCM) that can deactivate three cylinders while cruising for improved fuel economy. This SUV is high on features and still offers room for eight passengers. Base price for the Pilot starts around $27,000.

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