The Best SUVs in Different Categories?

Answer 1

There are a number of factors that go into determining the best SUV to purchase. While many people look solely at the exterior, aesthetic appeal of an SUV, that should not be the only determining factor. It is true, however, that most car buyers prefer to have a good looking vehicle to drive around. This is precisely why SUV models such as the Land Rover Range Rover, Porsche Cayenne, and Audi Q5 always sell so well. They are sleek, aesthetically pleasing luxury vehicles that are not only great to look at but fun to drive.

Aside from basic looks, savvy SUV shoppers look for other aspects of a vehicle before purchasing. Affordability, especially in this tough and uncertain economy, is one of the biggest draws for many SUVs. At the start of 2012, the top three most affordable SUVs, regardless of size are the Chevrolet Equinox, GMC Terrain, and Volkswagen Tiguan, each costing in the $22k to $35k range. Many of the luxury SUVs have not made the top affordability list because of the added features that come with even the basic model. That does not mean that they are not affordable within their own class. The top three in that category are the Cadillac Escalade, Mercedes Benz GL, and Land Rover Range Rover, which the SUVs in the $60k range on the lower end to the $90k range at the higher end.

Looks, price, and features are all top factors, but they are not the only ones. In today's environmentally-friendly society, shoppers also want to know that they are getting good gas mileage and that less gas is used, thus reducing their carbon footprint. There are plenty of hybrid cars but fewer SUVs with that classification, though more and more companies are beginning to produce them. In the hybrid category, the three SUVs that have been ranked the highest this year include the Lexus RX 450h, GMC Yukon Hybrid, and Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid. All of these SUVs have traditionally been in the "large" category, but because of the new hybrid versions, getting on average about 30 to 32 mpg on the highway.