2012 Honda Pilot SUV



2012 Honda Pilot SUV

Introduction

Sometimes meaningful change can be achieved with just one or two thoughtful adjustments, and so it is with the 2012 Honda Pilot. For years, the  Honda Pilot was at best a mediocre alternative in a segment led by outstanding picks, but this year, the crossover gets tweaks that address its most nagging flaws. As a result, Honda's boxy hauler gains some ground, climbing the compact-SUV hierarchy to become a more appealing choice.

The Pilot's biggest shortcoming concerned unacceptably long braking distances; in this respect, its performance trailed that of rival models by a significant margin. Happily, this worrisome fault has been addressed; the 2012 Honda Pilot's braking distance shows improvement of almost 30 feet, bringing the crossover in line with segment averages. Fuel economy also gets a boost, with the 2012 model upping mileage by 1 mpg city/2 mpg highway and 2 mpg combined thanks to various efficiency tweaks made to the engine and body aerodynamics. These gains are enough to make this Honda one of the most fuel-efficient models you can choose if you're looking for a V6 midsize crossover.

2012 Land Rover LR2 SUV



2012 Land Rover LR2 SUV

Introduction

As Land Rover's entry-level vehicle, the 2012 Land Rover LR2 has never managed to win us over, despite this model's success in Europe. It's the right size, featuring a platform that isn't far (though a little smaller) from the Volvo XC60, which has proved very popular with us. Yet somehow its Land Rover-caliber all-weather, all-terrain capability doesn't do this crossover any favors in its role as daily transportation.

If you're breaking trail to your farm in Bucks County, this could be the right sort of everyday vehicle for you, as Land Rover's all-terrain technology definitely will get through the mud or snow. With standard all-wheel drive, plenty of ground clearance and electronic assistants to tame a variety of surfaces, there are few remote locations that would be out of reach.

But once you hit the pavement, the Land Rover LR2 shows evidence of its off-road breeding with driving dynamics that are a little ponderous, with noticeable body roll and un-noticeable acceleration. At the same time, the LR2 is also a little short on interior quality and a little compact in cargo capacity, so it delivers neither the luxury nor the utility that you might expect in a crossover.

2012 Chevrolet Traverse SUV



2012 Chevrolet Traverse SUV

 Introduction

While the average American family has 2.6 kids, sometimes you end up with a Brady Bunch-sized clan. If you can relate, and you need something bigger than the typical midsize sedan to cart around your brood, the 2012 Chevrolet Traverse is worth a look.

It's important to note, however, that the 2012 Traverse is actually one of three vehicles GM sells with this body style and 288-horsepower V6. The Buick Enclave and GMC Acadia differ in styling, interior design, some feature availability and the quality of some cabin materials, but otherwise they are mechanically identical. As for picking one, it really comes down to price, style and which dealer treats you best.

One of the best modern family haulers to come out in the last few years, the Traverse is a large crossover that boasts a refined ride and an enormous cabin that can fit as many as eight adults. Thanks to its carlike unibody architecture, it's lighter and more maneuverable than traditional SUVs like Chevy's Tahoe. The Traverse has other advantages as well, including more interior space than other competing crossovers, decent fuel economy and top crash test scores.

2012 Chevrolet Suburban SUV



2012 Chevrolet Suburban SUV

Introduction

The 2012 Chevrolet Suburban has talents as large as its footprint. There's seating for up to nine people, massive cargo space and a towing capacity that's robust enough to handle a quartet of thoroughbreds or a boat bigger than some apartments. Equally impressive is the gentle giant's pleasant driving demeanor thanks to its comfortable ride and beefy V8 power. But the reality is that there's just a small, exclusive group that needs all this capability, and some other vehicles might work out better for the rest of us.

For driving around town or taking the kids to school, a gas-guzzling full-size SUV is complete overkill. In comparison, a large crossover like the Chevrolet Traverse or the somewhat fancier Buick Enclave and GMC Arcadia are all nearly as roomy yet are more nimble to drive and easier on gas.

2012 Cadillac SRX SUV



2012 Cadillac SRX SUV

Introduction

There's more to like for the 2012 Cadillac SRX, too. In prior years, the SRX came with either an underwhelming base 3.0-liter V6 or a more satisfying but expensive turbocharged 2.8-liter V6 upgrade. Now both have been replaced by a 308-horsepower 3.8-liter V6. This is certainly good news, as you no longer have to pay top dollar to get the best engine. And as before, the SRX is offered in both front-drive and all-wheel-drive variants.

When it debuted two years ago, the Cadillac SRX was a bit of an underachiever. We described it as "competent but far from class-leading." Thankfully, Cadillac has made a number of changes this year to make the 2012 SRX a more appealing luxury crossover SUV.

2012 Infiniti QX SUV



2012 Infiniti QX SUV

Introduction

Last year's complete redesign saw the Infiniti QX move to its own unique platform (previous models were built on the platform of the Nissan Armada pickup), a move that improved its handling and overall refinement and put it on a more level playing field with the competition. Powertrain upgrades included a significant bump in horsepower, a seven-speed automatic transmission and a new full-time four-wheel-drive system.

"Nothing succeeds like excess," Oscar Wilde said, and he could have been describing the 2012 Infiniti QX. That's because Infiniti's full-size SUV flagship is the quintessential cup-runneth-over by just about every measure you'd care to name.

2012 Infiniti EX SUV



2012 Infiniti EX SUV

Introduction

The Infiniti EX's appeal continues inside as it surrounds its occupants with impressive luxury trimmings, including soft leather upholstery and genuine wood trim. An array of cutting-edge technology is also available, including the Around-View Monitor that stitches together images from four video cameras to give the driver a handy 360-degree top-down view of the vehicle and its surroundings.

The 2012 Infiniti EX is built on the same platform as Infiniti's sporty G Sedan, and this means the EX is a cut above most other compact luxury crossovers when it comes to the way it drives. With its 3.5-liter V6 under the hood, the EX also delivers plenty of muscle. Really, if you're a fan of the G sedan but wished it was a little more practical, the EX should be the perfect compromise.

2012 Chevrolet Equinox SUV



2012 Chevrolet Equinox SUV

 Introduction

Relegated to also-ran status just a few short years ago, the 2012 Chevrolet Equinox SUV has moved to the front of the small SUV pack. This second generation of Chevrolet's compact crossover now offers a distinctive look and a level of refinement that makes it a viable alternative to the long-popular category leaders from Honda and Toyota.

Under the hood you'll find a choice of either a 182-horsepower inline-4 or a 264-hp V6. Both of these engines deliver respectable acceleration, and the four-cylinder is notable for its above-average fuel economy (even though we've found it doesn't quite meet its lofty EPA estimates).

2012 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class SUV



2012 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class SUV

 Introduction

Unlike many other large luxury SUVs, the 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class is not based on a truck chassis, so it boasts better road manners and interior packaging than a truck-based SUV. Its comfortable and composed ride is worthy of a Mercedes luxury sedan, and while it can be cumbersome to maneuver in tight quarters, the GL boasts superior handling compared to similarly sized rivals. And, of course, like any true Mercedes, the interior boasts excellent quality and construction.

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class means to provide family transportation for up to seven people and do so while showcasing the engineering and craftsmanship one expects from a vehicle wearing the three-pointed star. While there are plenty of family-friendly SUVs and plenty more luxury SUVs, the Mercedes GL is one of the few that can be both.

2012 Buick Enclave SUV



2012 Buick Enclave SUV

 Introduction

The Buick Enclave SUV rides on the same unibody platform as the Chevrolet Traverse and GMC Acadia. To help distinguish it as the most premium model in the group, the Enclave has sleeker exterior styling and the most luxurious interior. Other traits are similarly shared but are still quite positive, including a powerful V6, a comfortable and quiet ride and massive cargo capacity.

The family hauler has changed a lot over the years, with wagons making way for minivans and then truck-based SUVs. Today, crossovers have largely melded the attributes of the latter two, with a few wagon bits occasionally thrown in for good measure. One of the best of these modern family haulers is the 2012 Buick Enclave, a large crossover that boasts a refined ride and an enormous cabin that can fit up to eight adults.

2012 Dodge Journey SUV



2012 Dodge Journey SUV

 Introduction

The 2012 Dodge Journey slots into the crossover SUV fray alongside tweener-sized vehicles like the Chevrolet Equinox, Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. Like the RAV4, the Journey offers a small third-row seat that is useful for occasionally taking on a couple of extra kids. With or without the third row, however, the Journey strikes a right-sized balance for shoppers looking for something to schlep the family around without stepping up to costlier, thirstier and more cumbersome models like the Dodge Durango and Toyota Highlander.

Once, the Dodge Journey was only a good idea compromised by half-hearted execution. Slow, ponderous and inefficient on the highway, it was further flawed by an interior that didn't fit the human form and seemed poorly made besides. Usually it takes an entirely new model to turn around such a wayward ship, but Dodge managed to bail out its midsize crossover with a bold makeover last year. The result is a compact sport-utility that suddenly is worth considering as a family hauler.

2012 Dodge Durango SUV



2012 Dodge Durango SUV

 Introduction

The Dodge Durango SUV returned to the market after a one-year hiatus. Fully redesigned, the latest Dodge Durango is a much different and much better vehicle than the generation that came before. With improved handling and ride dynamics, a nicer interior and a more refined and powerful V6, Dodge's full-size SUV gets a level of respect that the old Durango couldn't have gotten if Nelson Mandela himself was behind the wheel.

As expected, this year's 2012 Dodge Durango has the same positive qualities going for it. We're particularly fond of its sleek styling and upscale cabin. As a large crossover SUV, the Durango can seat up to seven passengers. It is also pretty easy to maneuver and rides well on both the highway and city streets.

2012 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid SUV



2012 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid SUV

 Introduction

The 2012 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid SUV is an expensive but well-appointed full-size SUV with impressive green credentials, considering its size and capability. It can seat eight and tow up to 6,200 pounds, but still gets an estimated 20 mpg in city driving. That's better fuel economy than a six-cylinder Honda Odyssey, for instance.

Credit for this capability goes to the Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid's two-mode hybrid powertrain, which combines a 6.0-liter V8 with a pair of electric motors and a specialized transmission. Shoppers with an eye on conserving the earth's resources, yet who still need the size and towing capability of a big SUV, can feel good about choosing the Tahoe Hybrid. This is especially true if you routinely end up in stop-and-go traffic, as the efficiency improvement delivered by its electric components is maximized in such driving conditions.

2012 Audi Q5 SUV



2012 Audi Q5 SUV

 Introduction


Based on Audi's A4 sedan, the 2012 Audi Q5 inherits much of its smaller stablemate's entertaining driving dynamics. With confident handling and a choice of two responsive engines, the Q5 represents one of the most engaging SUVs on the market. But performance does not come at the expense of fuel economy, as the turbocharged four-cylinder engine returns an EPA-estimated 22 mpg in combined driving, while the V6 offers up a still commendable 20 mpg. Given that the four-cylinder is just as quick as the V6, we see little need to pay extra money for extra cylinders, though.

In most cases, compromise means settling on a middle-of-the-road choice that neither side considers attractive. In the automotive world, this usually means performance is traded away to gain economy and practicality, and vice versa. But there are exceptions to the rule, and one of them is the 2012 Audi Q5.

2013 Mazda CX-5 SUV Review



2013 Mazda CX-5 SUV

 Introduction

Choosing a vehicle in the compact SUV segment can sometimes mean settling for less when it comes to modern amenities. Not so with the CX-5. Even on the base trim, an impressive list of standard equipment will keep budget-minded consumers happy. Moving up the range will naturally net you a more comprehensive roster of equipment, but Mazda also wanted to ensure that popular equipment (such as Bluetooth, a rearview camera and so on) that may be standard on higher trim levels would still be available even on the base vehicle as an option.

The 2013 CX-5 isn't the first compact crossover SUV from Mazda, but it might as well be. Mazda's previous attempts at making inroads in the highly competitive segment included the Tribute (a clone of a Ford Escape) and the highly regarded but slow-selling Mazda CX-7. With this all-new, athletically minded and generously equipped compact SUV, Mazda finally gets the recipe right.

Starting with an all-new unibody, Mazda's engineers set out to combine a relatively roomy interior, sharp driving dynamics and a lightweight overall package. The 2013 Mazda CX-5 will be initially offered with one fuel-efficient engine, a sophisticated 2.0-liter direct-injected four-cylinder making 155 horsepower and 150 pound-feet of torque. Mazda estimates highway fuel economy at 33 mpg, meaning the CX-5 should be at the top of its class for efficiency.

In terms of storage and cargo capability, the CX-5 is on par with its competitors. The base model CX-5 Sport has 60/40-split-folding rear seats, but for those who enjoy four-up skiing and snowboarding, the Touring and Grand Touring models feature a special 40/20/40-split-folding rear seat to accommodate long objects in the cargo area. Maximum cargo capacity isn't class-leading, but it's not far off.

2012 Acura MDX - SUV Review



2012 Acura MDX SUV

 Introduction
The 2012 Acura MDX could be the best high-class cross-over you haven't yet regarded. Missing among the European-style symbols, the United states bulk carriers and its own Japanese competitors, the Acura MDX is a quiet challenger. It offers some of the grateful high-class sessions, top safety and comfort technology, and rewarding driving characteristics in the class without depending on brand name cachet to get your attention. 

Much of the MDX's dynamic enjoyment comes from its "Super Handling" all-wheel-drive system (SH-AWD). Many luxury crossover shoppers will only consider a rear- or all-wheel-drive model, and the Acura uses its AWD system to apportion power automatically to outside wheels during cornering. While the MDX is still mostly driven by the front wheels in straight-line cruising, the system kicks in undetected to all but the savviest drivers during spirited maneuvers on twisting sections of road. The net effect is a crossover with predictable driving dynamics in all kinds of weather conditions, plus communicative steering that makes this utility vehicle feel smaller than it is.

Inside its cabin, the MDX rivals Acura's flagship RL sedan for quality. Soft leather, handsome wood trim, and buttons, switches and knobs with a precise action to them demonstrate Acura's attention to detail. The base MDX comes with a wealth of standard features, but three available packages push the tech and luxury into territory more familiar to buyers of European models.