Looking for a small, dependable SUV for work that's good on gas. Need suggestions.
As a guideline, we have the Cars.com Best Bets, where we pick dependable and safe new models. Our 2008 recommendations are currently in the works, but our 2007 small SUV Best Bets include the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V and Ford Escape. The methodology behind the Cars.com Best Bets can be found here.
Of those small SUVs, the 2007 Escape Hybrid with front-wheel drive has the best mileage ratings, with a combined estimate of 30 mpg using the EPA’s 2008 ratings. However, the hybrid is also the most expensive, with a $6,000 premium when comparing all three base FWD models.
The Honda and Toyota have standard electronic stability systems, whereas the Escape Hybrid doesn’t have one at all; neither do the non-hybrid 2007 models. However, a stability system has been added to the redesigned non-hybrid 2008 Escape. For 2008, the RAV4 and CR-V are largely unchanged from their 2007 counterparts.
Hopefully that gets you started. Auto show season will be in full swing soon, and it’s a perfect chance to get into the aforementioned SUVs, all under one roof -- and indoors, too! Keep an eye out for special auto-show-only incentives. The Philadelphia Auto Show is February 2-10, 2008, at the Pennsylvania Convention Center.
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Why not the Hyundai Tucson, fwd or 4X4?
Consider it, Gail!
Peace!
Subaru Forester?
What About the All new Nissan Rogue? It is more affordable than the CRV or RAV 4 and with a the CVT transmission it costs less to maintain and provides nissan dapenablility
Any methodology that includes any Ford since the Falcon as "dependable" is flawed.
Actually,early 70s stats showed the Ford Maverick was the least trouble prone car in that timeframe.Of course you couldnt get any options in that thing,and that kept the failure rate down.I would imagine the similar Fairmont would have held that title in the late 70s.
The new Mitsubishi Outlander is very nice. You can't beat the warranty and value.
Lets be serious here...
Only RAV-4 and CR-V are as close to perfect as it gets (reliability/fuel economy/comfort/options). Everything else has big CONs and you have to admit that:
- Outlander/Mariner/Tribute/Escape are gas-thirsty and have weak resale value
- Mariner/Tribute/Escape Hybrids - way to expensive
- Forester has cramped interior
- Hyundai and Kea are money-loosers (you have to run it to the ground or you lost)
- Rogue is a new model. So far the only dependable thing from Nissan was that you can depend that your car will have bunch of recalls.
I have a '98 Dodge Gr. Caravan. Looking for something easier to get into. Not as High as mini-van, not low as sedans that you get "down into and struggle to get out of" Suggestions?
Yea. Wait for Toyota Venza...
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Why not the Tribute and Mariner?