Compact SUV
Winner: Kia Sorento
Honorable Mention: Ford Escape
This is an ever-growing category that doesn't look to be slowing down any time soon. In fact, as more and more crossover wagons enter the mix in the next several years, this category will expand and its vehicles will evolve. As you can tell, all the manufacturers are sensitive to having a base model that comes in under, if not well under, the magic $20,000 mark. And maybe like no other SUV class, these buyers are price sensitive. That's why we like the Kia Sorento, with one of the biggest motors, longest wheelbases, largest cargo areas, and a surprisingly comfortable ride. Unlike many vehicles in this category, there aren't a lot of options for this vehicle; as a consequence, choosing the Sorento means that, even if you want to make a few additions, you're still not going to have that familiar bait-and-switch feeling when you drive off the lot. And the interior will surprise you.
To get more information on all the vehicles included in this class, please click on the headline graphics above to reveal a spec chart.
Full-Size SUV
Winner: Dodge Durango
Honorable Mention: Toyota Sequoia
As you may have noted reading our five-way full-size SUV shootout in this issue, the front-runners in this class are the all-new Durango and aging Sequoia. We've always liked the Sequoia for its well-executed packaging and consistent standard of quality, but it offers only one powerplant. Our tip goes to the all-new Durango, with three engines to choose from, a fold-flat third row, and vastly improved ride-and-handling characteristics compared with its predecessor. Our only criticism with the Durango is also its most impressive asset: The available 5.7-liter Hemi engine raises the price of the Durango considerably as well as providing only adequate fuel economy around town. But for towing big toys, the Hemi-powered Durango has the best feel of the class.
To get more information on all the vehicles included in this class, please click on the headline graphics above to reveal a spec chart.
1-Ton Diesel Dualie Pickup (2WD Four-Door Longbed Auto)
Winner: Chevrolet 3500 Silverado/GMC Sierra
People who choose to buy a dualie have to work on a regular basis. And by "regular," we don't mean a few times a year. More correctly, it probably means a few times a week; maybe a horse trailer, a few thousand pounds of construction equipment, or perhaps almost two tons of Lance camper on its back. These trucks want to work, and a diesel is required for the tremendous, constant loads. The Duramax made a stir when it came out three years ago (in fact, that engine played a major role in it winning Motor Trend's Truck of the Year honors). This past year, the Power Stroke and Cummins diesel motors made a splash with either all-new or significantly revamped--and up-powered--power pullers. After much discussion, our editors remained confident about the Duramax. Although it's due for a remodel (and on paper, it's the weakest of the group), several editors tipped the scales in GM's favor because of the Allison transmission.
To get more information on all the vehicles included in this class, please click on the headline graphics above to reveal a spec chart.