Value
A most-improved-player acknowledgement must be given to the Korean manufacturer Kia for its all-new Sorento. While it lacks the technological tour de force or sophistication of some American, European, or Japanese marques, the Sorento can be pronounced a serious player in the small-to-midsize SUV arena--especially at this price point. Every editor found its full-frame chassis, longitudinal V-6, and four-wheel-drive architecture sound. This points the Sorento well on its way to widespread recognition. Kia is still a few years and a few million South Korean Won behind in terms of package development, but you can't argue with the under-$20,000 price and 5-year/60,000-mile basic warranty.
2003 Subaru Forester
Base engine: 2.5L/165-hp SOHC F-4
Opt engine: None
Drivetrain: Front engine, AWD
Fuel economy: 21/27
Price range: $21,070-$25,970
What's Hot: Carlike driving experience with SUV flexibility; seamless AWD; Subaru tough
What's Not: Odd rear styling; not much spread-out room, low ground clearance
What's New: Second-generation design; EBD electronic brake distribution; dual-stage airbags
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Known for value, the Hondas continue their family tradition with the unusual new Element offering far more vehicle than you'd expect in the $16,000-$21,000 range.
We've praised the Hummer H2 for being all the Hummer H1 anybody would ever need for almost half the price--plus being a far more liveable vehicle to boot. Still, about $50,000 is a great deal to pay for the privilege of saying you've got both the visual impact and the necessary hardware to back up the title as the world's most capable SUV.