Smaller SUVs Growing in Size - and Price
Submitted by BoarderPhreak on Tue, 05/22/2007 - 5:17am
Related Terms :
Big praise for small SUVs:
The Subaru Forester Sports XT, the Forester X ($23,420) and the Honda CR-V EX ($24,645) join previously tested versions of the RAV4 ($30,328 for the top-rated Limited V6 and $23,163 for the four-cylinder Base version) as recommendations for all-around competence. A good bet for serious off-roading is the Nissan Xterra. (The S version CR tested cost $28,000.) Its strong V6 and truck-based platform also allow it to tow 5,000 pounds.
In the 10 years since the four-cylinder, five-passenger Toyota RAV4 launched the class, small SUVs have grown so much in size and power that the lines between them and midsize models have become blurred. There are many more small SUVs crowding the field today, some 20 of which have now been rated by Consumer Reports.
Several models offer both four- and six-cylinder engines. Their interiors are expanding, as well: The redesigned RAV4's optional third-row seat is no longer unique to this class.
But gains in power, size and amenities come at a cost. These not-so-small SUVs can approach or exceed $30,000, putting them very close to midsize models in price.
In CR's recent tests of small SUVs, none of the models outperformed the six-cylinder Toyota RAV4 Limited. Still, several models came close. (CR rates vehicles on how well they scored in performance tests. To earn the magazine's recommendation, a car must perform well, respond at least adequately if subjected to government and/or insurance-industry crash and rollover tests, and show average or better reliability based on the real-world experiences of CR readers.)
Hyundai Santa Fe
Redesigned for 2007, the Santa Fe is a big improvement over the old model and trails only the RAV4 in CR's performance ratings. It's quiet and refined and rides comfortably. Handling is improved, and the 3.3-liter, 242-hp V6 is powerful and smooth. While the interior has impressive fit and finish, the Santa Fe's optional third-row seat is suitable only for children. The Limited AWD version that CR tested cost $30,745. Reliability is unknown for this new model, so CR can't recommend it yet.
Subaru Forester
CR tested the high-end Sports XT version ($27,662, with automatic transmission and standard electronic stability control) and found it quick and nimble. The turbocharged 224-hp, 2.5-liter engine runs smoothly and provides V6-like acceleration on premium fuel. The lack of available curtain air bags is a negative, and the snug interior lacks the ambience found in newer SUVs. Reliability for the Forester, however, has been excellent.
Mitsubishi Outlander
A strong 220-hp, 3.0-liter V6 and new six-speed automatic transmission help propel the redesigned Outlander to a very good performance rating. CR found that handling is improved over the old design, but the ride is on the stiff side, road noise is pronounced and fit and finish are disappointing. With options such as heated leather seats, a sunroof and an audio and navigation package, the Outlander XLS as tested cost $30,615. Reliability for this new version is unknown.
Suzuki XL7
Another redesigned model, the formerly truck-based XL7 now derives from the shorter Chevrolet Equinox. Its 3.6-liter, 252-hp V6 provides ample performance. However, at just 17 mpg in mixed city/highway driving, fuel economy is unimpressive. Also unimpressive is the car's 44-foot turning circle, which hampers tight maneuvers. CR paid $29,284 for its Luxury model, with an optional rear DVD system. Reliability is unknown.
Dodge Nitro
The Nitro has bold styling -- it shares a platform with the Jeep Liberty -- but otherwise falls flat. The unrefined 210-hp, 3.7-liter V6 provides mediocre performance and poor fuel economy. Handling is clumsy, and the ride is unsettled. Interior materials are insubstantial, poorly constructed hard plastics. The tested SLT version with part-time 4WD and options, including towing package, cost $28,875. Reliability for this new vehicle is unknown.
Big praise for small SUVs
The Subaru Forester Sports XT, the Forester X ($23,420) and the Honda CR-V EX ($24,645) join previously tested versions of the RAV4 ($30,328 for the top-rated Limited V6 and $23,163 for the four-cylinder Base version) as recommendations for all-around competence. A good bet for serious off-roading is the Nissan Xterra. (The S version CR tested cost $28,000.) Its strong V6 and truck-based platform also allow it to tow 5,000 pounds.
