SUVs
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SUV Under $25,000: Jeep Patriot</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD align=middle width=90>
</TD><TD width="100%">The Jeep Patriot isn't perfect, but our editors point out that this capable compact SUV has a couple of things going in its favor. One key asset is styling. Many cute-utes are uncomfortably heavy on the "cute" aspect of the equation. The Patriot has an angular aggressiveness that's less puppy than it is urban piranha. Guys won't feel emasculated when they're behind the wheel, and women will appreciate piloting a vehicle endowed with an aesthetic that's sharp and striking. Another highlight of the Patriot is its off-road capability. Most compact SUVs are designed to function only on pavement; this makes sense when you consider that for most buyers, this is where virtually all of the action takes place. If you're one of those who like to kick up dust off the beaten path, however, the Patriot is a winning choice. Consumers who championed the Patriot as the winner in this segment praised the SUV's outstanding fuel economy and spacious cabin.
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SUV $25K-$35K: Buick Enclave</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD align=middle width=90>
</TD><TD width="100%">Americans love a comeback story. Just when consumers were ready to write Buick off for good, the 2008 Enclave came to its rescue. The all-new crossover SUV accommodates up to eight passengers in upscale comfort. Easy third-row access, a maximum cargo area of 116 cubic feet and a long list of convenience and safety features make it a natural alternative to both stodgy minivans and rough-riding, truck-based SUVs. Powered by a 275-hp V6 with a six-speed transmission, it has good power across the range, though slow downshifting dampens the driving experience. Handling is competent, but not as sporty as its
Mazda CX-9 competitor. Consumers love the quiet and smooth ride, OnStar functionality, adult-friendly third row and well-designed interior. "Like flying first class," "a home run" and "an eye-catcher" are common refrains. Consumers are happily trading in their foreign-made luxury vehicles for this American comeback kid.
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SUV $35K-$45K: Lincoln MKX</STRONG></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD align=middle width=90>
</TD><TD width="100%">Many Lincoln MKX buyers cited most of the same positives we noticed in this five-seat luxury crossover. The MKX's expansive feature content drew accolades, including items like the heated/cooled front seats, panorama sunroof, power tailgate, THX sound system and Ford's innovative Sync system. The ride is also comfortable, with both rows of seats offering an excellent amount of space and comfort. Styling is also a strong suit of this crossover, as it applies retro Lincoln touches to the modern lines of what is essentially a
Ford Edge. The MKX does have some low points, however. Specifically, we discovered the MKX's braking distances to be noticeably poor, while the interior materials and fit and finish were not up to the quality of other luxury models. So although buyers have been happy with their Lincoln MKX, it's important to note there are worthy competitors.
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SUV Over $45,000: Lexus LX 570</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD align=middle width=90>
</TD><TD width="100%">When it comes to luxury SUVs, consumers think very highly of the Lexus LX 570. It's no surprise, since Lexus has spent the past 10 years perfecting luxury vehicles that offer Toyota reliability combined with excellent value. Those who rated the all-new LX 570 highly, frequently mentioned abundant interior features, the quiet cabin and a powerful but smooth engine in their explanations. A revised navigation system and Bluetooth functionality are also cited as reasons some consumers chose the LX 570 over other luxury SUVs. A 5.7-liter V8 is the only engine offered, so low fuel-efficiency is often mentioned as an area that could improve. A few buyers also want more navigation functionality when the car is moving and more room in the third-row seats. Still, though there are plenty of luxury SUVs on the market, our consumers rate the LX 570 highest in the pack.
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http://www.edmunds.com/reviews/consumerstoprated/2008/index.html