For the past few years, auto manufacturers have scrambled to keep up with fierce competition in the SUV market. Today, even the emblems of high-end brands such as Lexus, Mercedes, and Lincoln can be seen on SUVs around the country.

   I’m often asked what SUV is the right purchase for my clients. It’s a lot like asking someone what baseball team they like, or what type of food they prefer.  Like anyone else, I have my own opinions on what SUV is the best for all-around use, family transportation, vacation and work. With nearly three decades in the automobile business, I can get pretty finicky when doing my research; So, to keep this column running smooth, and to cover as many areas as possible, I recommend the following SUVs, based upon reliability, resale potential, safety, and all around value.

   For the low-end models, or for consumers just embarking in the world of SUVs, the Toyota RV4 and Honda CRV are great values for what you get. These models come with all kinds of standard goodies, plus, there are many options and third party add-ons that make these the darlings of small families, working people, and hikers, campers and other outdoors types.

   Mid-priced value, reliability, and safety can be found in the Jeep Cherokee, Ford Explorer, and Chevrolet Suburban. Keep in mind that so many of these mass-produced domestic SUVs are being produced, that high re-sale values may be a problem, especially with higher trade-in miles, and two-wheel drive packages vs. four wheel drive. Click Here For Our Used Car Department

   My opinion for the best all-around, domestic SUV is the Chevy Suburban, but expect to pay around $35,000 to $40,000 for one that’s well-equipped.

   Mid-sized between the big Suburban and the smaller Ford Explorer is the Ford Expedition, one of the hottest selling domestic SUVs on the market today.

   Now we come to my choice for the best non-domestic SUV.

   Hands down my choice is the Toyota 4 Runner. Great value, great safety. great handling. If you don’t mind giving up some of the passenger space offered by the larger domestics, the 4 Runner is the best you can get for your money in this cost-class, second only by the Nissan Pathfinder.

   A lower priced option is the Mitsubishi Montero. Although it doesn’t come close to the quality of the Toyota or Nissan models, it has great looks, and a lot to offer for the price.

   In the overall preference, without first consulting about the unique needs of a client interested in a new SUV, I would also recommend a serious look at:

   Toyota Landcruiser

   Lexus RX 300

   Mercedes Benz-M320

   Lexus LX 470

   Along with the Toyota 4 Runner, the above four models, although quite a bit more expensive, are rated higher than any other SUV on the market in areas of service, safety, reliability, and resale.

  Purchasing or leasing an SUV requires the same research and comparison required for any other new vehicle. Of course, other deciding factors include budget, use for vehicle, and space requirements.

   As new vehicle specialists, my staff of consultants and myself are proud of the work we do for our clients in finding the best all around vehicle at the best price.

   If you are considering an sport utility vehicle, please e-mail or call us to find out more about the exciting new line of Sport Utility Vehicles now being introduced for the new car season.

  Thanks,

  Bob Worner