Powered by a modern V6 or a 4-cylinder engine, the Chevrolet Equinox offers seating for five in a modern interior and features optional all-wheel-drive.

Distinguished from other SUVs by its squared-off styling, the V6-powered Dodge Nitro looks and feels larger than its size, with a high seating position and good cabin space.

The Ford Escape comes powered by a choice of four-cylinder engines with optional 4WD. The Escape offers space for five, sporty looks and excellent handling.

The Honda CR-V comes powered by a 4-cylinder engine only and features optional all-wheel-drive. With seating for five, it offers a flexible interior and comprehensive safety equipment.

Powered by a choice of four- and six-cylinder engines, the Hyundai Santa Fe combines transparent and secure handling with modern looks and space for up to seven passengers.

Powered by fuel-efficient 4-cylinder engines, the Hyundai Tucson seats five and is well appointed, efficient, and pleasingly fun to drive. All-wheel-drive is an option.

Powered by a choice of 4-cylinder engines, the Compass is not a traditional Jeep with go-anywhere off-road capability, but offers a comfortable ride, steady handling, and high mileage.

The Jeep Liberty offers good off-road capability, generous cargo space and a high seating position. But it's heavy and lacks the handling and fuel economy of most of its rivals.

The Mazda CX-5 impresses with leek styling, excellent fuel economy, comfort, versatility, and good road manners. Acceleration from the 2.3-liter engine is only moderate. AWD is optional.

The Mazda CX-7 comes powered by a strong turbocharged 4-cylinder and features sporty styling and handling. The trade-off is less interior room than the top contenders in its class.

Powered by a 4-cylinder turbo, the Nissan Juke is a distinctively styled mix of a sport-utility vehicle and a coupe that offers sporty handling and a comfortable interior.

Powered by a 2.5l 4-cylinder, the Nissan Rogue offers seating for five passengers in an upscale and well-equipped interior. Ride and handling is good, if not sports-car like.

Based on a rear-wheel-drive platform offering optional AWD and powered by a choice of 4-cylinder and V6 engines, the Suzuki Grand Vitara seats five and is quite capable in rugged terrain.

The Toyota RAV4 comes well-powered by four- and six-cylinder engines with up to 269 hp and optional all-wheel-drive. The spacious and comfortable interior is available with third row seating.

The Volkswagen Tiguan offers a fine powertrain with optional all-wheel-drive, a smooth ride and sporty handling, and a spacious and high-quality interior.