Come behind the scenes with the editors of Motor Trend Magazine, as we spend several days wringing out the competition for the 2005 Sport/Utility of the Year Award. From the Chevrolet Equinox, Ford Escape Hybrid, and Ford Freestyle, to the Jeep Grand Cherokee, Infiniti QX56, and Nissan Pathfinder, each vehicle was given a chance to show its strengths and weaknesses. We took them all deep into the shadows of the earth and far out into the desolate desert in order to find the one SUV worthy of the award.
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Read about the winner at Motor Trend Names 2005 Sport/Utility of the Year Winner.
For dowloadable wallpaper images of each of the contenders, check out our 2005 Sport/Utility of the Year Wallpaper Gallery.
The official judging began...
The official judging began with a group walkaround of each vehicle, lead by the most knowledgable editor on a particular vehicle. In all cases, staff members had driven the vehicles prior on manufacturer events, where days had been spent with the development and marketing teams.
Truck Trend Editor Mark Williams...
Truck Trend Editor Mark Williams discusses the six-cylinder powerplant found under the hood of Equinox, as he relays points about the vehicle's structure.
Long days on the road necessitate...
Long days on the road necessitate a ready supply of caffeine. Senior Editor Ron Sessions and Technical Editor Kim Reynolds agree a good cuppa joe starts a day of testing off right.
The previous Sport/Utility...
The previous Sport/Utility of the Year winner, Volkswagen Touareg, served as mobile craft services. From experience, we knew this impressive machine could tackle the planned off-road route.
The editors analyze each and...
The editors analyze each and every aspect of the vehicles, including sitting in each seating position.
Editors regular confirmed...
Editors regular confirmed the VW's cargo capacity while endulging in the mobile buffet.