The 2012 Suzuki Grand Vitara ranks 10 out of 20 Affordable Compact SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 74 published reviews and test drives of the Suzuki Grand Vitara, and our analysis of reliability and safety data. While the 2012 Suzuki Grand Vitara can handle itself off-road and has standard navigation, reviewers still say that its powertrain and cabin aren’t perfect.

Test drivers don’t call the 2012 Suzuki Grand Vitara a bad SUV. In fact, they like that it comes standard with navigation and are impressed with its off-road abilities. But they still have a lot to complain about. First, with both two- and four-wheel drive, the Vitara has poor fuel economy ratings for the class, even compared with compact SUVs with four- or all-wheel drive. Second, two-wheel drive models aren’t as refined on pavement or as powerful as models like the Toyota RAV4.

There are three styles available for the Suzuki Grand Vitara: Base, Premium and Limited. Even base and Premium models are pretty well equipped with features like automatic climate control, full power accessories, a removable Garmin navigation unit and side and side curtain airbags. The top-line Limited has luxurious upgrades like leather seating and heated front seats. Bluetooth is optional on all but the base Grand Vitara.

Every Suzuki Grand Vitara is powered by a 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder that produces 166 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque. A five-speed manual transmission is standard on base models, while all other versions get a four-speed automatic. Rear-wheel drive is standard across the lineup, but Premium models can also be had with a four-wheel-drive system with a low-range transfer case. Limited models are offered with a four-mode 4WD system (4H, 4H Lock, 4L Lock and N) that allows the Grand Vitara to be flat-towed behind an RV without adding miles to the odometer.

The 2011 Kia Sorento ranks 13 out of 23 Affordable Midsize SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 26 published reviews and test drives of the Kia Sorento, and our analysis of reliability and safety data. Previously an also-ran within its competitive class, the 2011 Kia Sorento has lost its truck-based platform and is now one of the most comfortable-riding and powerful midsize crossovers available.

The 2011 Kia Sorento straddles the line between compact and midsize SUVs. Available seating for seven and its exterior size say midsize SUV, but its price and standard four cylinder engine say compact SUV.  Though the Sorento can cost more than $29,000 if you opt for the highest trim, a modestly equipped base model is quite a good value. Reviewers like the new Sorento so much that they say it gives the class leaders a run for their money.

When the midsize Kia Sorento first appeared, it featured a traditional, trucklike body-on-frame design that provided a level of ruggedness not typically found on crossover SUVs. Blessed with above-average off-roading and towing abilities, the V6-powered first-generation Sorento won our respect for its practical nature. It also boasted impressive value, offering the dimensions of a midsize SUV at a compact-crossover price point.

But the original Sorento was clearly out of sync with the crossover craze. Most consumers want carlike unibody construction in their SUVs these days, so Kia decided to provide precisely that with the current, second-generation Sorento. The present model also offers a usable third-row seat, standard four-cylinder power with a V6 option, and Kia’s extensive warranty package. Even more so than its predecessor, the current Sorento offers midsize functionality and refinement at an extraordinarily reasonable price.

Being almost exclusively an AUV driver (having driven a Toyota Tamaraw FX and a Revo for almost all of my driving years), I always welcome the break when I get to drive a slightly bigger vehicle. That treat came recently when I had a chance to take the 2010 Isuzu Alterra for a spin.

At first glance, I thought it would take some effort to drive since it’s slightly longer and wider than what I’m used to. Surprisingly, driving the new Isuzu Alterra wasn’t a chore at all. Ten minutes into the trip, I forgot it’s an SUV because it’s quite easy to maneuver, much like a sedan. Being on the bigger side of life, I found the Alterra’s spacious legroom an added bonus. I was more relaxed during traffic jams thanks to the extra space for stretching my legs out.

he midsize sport-utility vehicle, just became even better, receiving more value-for-money features that are sure to impress in these gloomy time of recession.
Just think about it, who will be willing to pay P1.7 million for a truck, which is essentially what the Alterra is. Isuzu has all the extras to prove its worth: Two LCD screens, 11 speakers that churn out 5.1 Dolby Digital DTS Surround Sound, a JVC head unit that takes in DVD, MP3, WMA, USB and other auxiliaries, and controls that lets the backseat people enjoy their DVD marathon.

That’s not mentioning the fact that the 2009 model is powered by the trailblazing 3.0-liter 4JJ1-TC common-rail direct-injection diesel engine, furnished with a new-design 16-inch six-spoke alloy wheels as well as a new-design circular tailpipe finisher. Chrome is also a nice addition on the vehicle, as the door handles and power-folding side mirrors have now been chromed.

Compact luxury crossover SUVs like the 2010 Audi Q5 are multiplying like bunnies. With so many of them hopping around, the task of evaluating their relative pros and cons may seem overwhelming. In the case of the Q5, though, it’s worth the effort. Thanks to a sprightly V6 and underpinnings from the A4 sport sedan, the Q5 is one of the most entertaining vehicles in this segment. And thanks to its generous rear passenger space and ample cargo space behind the rear seats, this entertainment doesn’t come with the usual practicality compromises.

The Q5′s wheelbase is identical to the A4′s, as are its Quattro all-wheel-drive system and many of its suspension bits. Interestingly, the Q5′s 3.2-liter V6 — a smooth and powerful engine that’s one of our favorites in this class — is no longer available on the A4. Otherwise, though, the Q5 largely drives like an A4 wagon with an elevated seating position, which is exactly what shoppers in this segment are looking for — carlike handling along with a commanding view from the driver seat.

Anyone who has sat inside the 2009 Audi Q5′s big brother, the Q7, or for that matter in the new, 2009 Audi A4 or Audi’s flagship, the R8 supercoupe, will instantly recognize the Q5′s interior design theme, instrument panel, and controls. As in all contemporary Audi models, the Q5′s interior is beautifully rendered in quality plastics, supple leather, and precisely engineered controls. It’s a very pleasant place to be.

For the U.S. market, many features will of course be standard, such as power seats, windows, and locks; leather upholstery, a ten-speaker stereo, 60/40-split rear seats that recline and also slide fore and aft by four inches; and a new-and-improved version of Audi’s MMI, or Multi-Media Interface, system that controls climate, radio, and navigation functions through a central knob and a display screen.

The Q5 is based on the current Audi A4 platform on Audi’s Modular Longitudinal Build kit.  The Q5 has sporty proportions and a muscular stance due to its long wheelbase and wide body and track.  The elimination of roof joint strips provides a high visual quality and minimized airflow. From the side you’ll notice the steeply raked windshield pillars, pull-out door handles and lower side extensions.  The rear features a wide opening hatch door dual exhaust tips below the bumper LED taillights.  Real aluminum trim is found up front, on the side around the green house and in the rear.  Audi’s passion for excellence in engineering and its hallmark of interior design, workmanship and quality materials follows its larger sibling.