Best in class: SUVs
$26,000 to $40,000
By Terry
Jackson • Bankrate.com
This is where buyers will find the greatest number
of midsized SUVs, as well as a few large, truck-based SUVs. It's
also where manufacturers have to add incentives to get these SUVs
moving off dealer lots. So while the prices mentioned here are manufacturer
list prices, a buyer can expect to get a significant discount from
that.
Jeep Grand Cherokee
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Jeep Grand Cherokee: Jeep
arguably created the SUV craze, but for the past decade it hasn't
kept up with the competition. That has changed with the all-new 2005
Grand Cherokee. There are new four-wheel-drive systems, an independent
front suspension, three engine options and better ergonomics and build
quality. The highway manners of this SUV are among the best available
and combine in four-wheel-drive form with Jeep's legendary off-road
capability. There are three versions of the four-wheel-drive system
-- a full-time all-wheel-drive system and two different four-wheel-drive
options -- connected to a five-speed automatic gearbox. The standard
engines are a 210-horsepower V6; a 230-horsepower 4.7-liter V8; and
the 325-horsepower 5.7-liter V8. As with most SUVs, fuel economy is
nothing special. Buyers will be lucky to see 18 miles per gallon on
average, and 14 mpg with the largest V8 won't be unusual. The interior
is the most luxurious ever seen in a Jeep. Prices start at about $27,000,
rising to more than $34,000 for the Limited edition.
Toyota 4Runner
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Toyota 4Runner:
Long a favorite, the 4Runner has gotten some updates for 2005.
The base V6 now comes with a five-speed automatic, and the 4.7-liter
V8 produces 270 horsepower. Although it has less cargo room than
a Ford Explorer, the 4Runner is available with third-row seating
on SR5 and Limited models. More truck-like than some midsize SUVs,
the 4Runner has a towing capacity of 7,300 pounds in V8 trim.
Prices start at more than $28,000 and rise to more than $38,000
for the top model.
Nissan Armada
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Nissan Armada: If
you don't care what your Earth First! friends think -- or if you
have to be seen in the biggest monster SUV this side of a Hummer,
then the Armada is for you. Powered by a 5.6-liter V8 that makes
305 horsepower, the Armada has brute power and a maximum tow rating
of 9,000 pounds. But the big-brute features stop there. The interior
is luxurious and includes such options as a video back-up camera,
which drivers will need. There's seating for eight, with plenty
of legroom for all. Prices start at less than $35,000, rising to
more than $42,000 -- making the Armada a keen competitor to the
Ford Expedition and Toyota Sequoia.
-- Posted: Feb. 15, 2005
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