SUV Today » Toyota SUV

Best SUV Crossover – Toyota Rav4

admin — Sun, 04 Jul 2010 22:36:45 +0000

The Toyota Rav4 is the best suv crossover ever made. The Rav4 is stylish and contemporary. It comes with an increased cargo, which is great for hauling many different items from camping gear to your dogs or groceries. Or if you have children you can get all their sports gear inside with no problems.

The Rav4 has an optional 2nd back seat, without it you can increase your cargo size even more. A big plus is also the regular back seats fold completely down extending the cargo space that much more. The Rav was also the first suv crossover from Toyota. It comes with optional 4 wheel drive or all wheel drive.

With the Toyota Rav 4 you can get either standard transmission or automatic transmission. This vehicle has the power to continue going in the snow, mud or sunny weather. It has fuel mileage ranging from 17 to 27. Toyota is well known for having the best suv crossover.

Toyota is also one of the most trustworthy companies for all vehicles, they have great lasting power and with regular upkeep can run for what seems forever. The Rav4 also comes in either 4cylinder or 6 cylinder, making it the best suv crossover.

Plenty of power for those who want to go, and plenty of power for those who just want to have no problem climbing hills. The Rav also is great for higher visibility and maneurvability for those who want to be able to have the best of both worlds, a car and a suv. You won’t miss the smaller interior of cars when you climb into this vehicle.

Plenty of leg room for everyone, no one is too small or too tall for this vehicle. There is cargo netting that will help protect the things that you do not want on the floor. Great for groceries that need more care, such as milk, or eggs.

Overall, this vehicle is everything that a person could want, room for everyone, power to go where you want when you want, cargo space to fit everything in. The comfort of knowing that you are protected with not only four wheel drive if it is needed but superior support within the Toyota company.

Comparing Three Of The Best Small SUVs In Today’s Market

admin — Fri, 25 Jun 2010 18:52:12 +0000

If you’re thinking about buying one of the best small SUVs, you absolutely have to take a look at these three models. The Subaru Forester is a good basic SUV for those wanting Subaru’s reliability in an SUV. The Toyota RAV4 is available in a 6 cylinder for those wanting more power. Finally Hyundai’s Tucson which is something to consider for anyone wanting a lot of SUV for the money. These are great models to consider for the fuel economy of a compact and the performance of a full sized SUV.

2010 Subaru Forester

Subaru has always been known to offer no frills automobiles and the 2010 Subaru Forester is no exception. With suggested base price at about $20,500, the Forester is a safe and practical addition to this year’s compact SUV line-up. While it won’t ever be mistaken for a luxury car it does offer solid good looks inside and out with lots of room for the kids.

One of the Forester’s most endearing qualities is its ability to drive more like a car than an SUV. This 4-door SUV Features a turbocharged 224hp engine with the 5 speed manual transmission that can get as much as 30 MPG on the highway. Additionally, the air bags all the way around and Subaru’s famous reliability make this a solid choice for any compact SUV shopper.

2010 Toyota RAV 4

2010 Toyota RAV4 has to be the best looking compact SUV on the market today. The 260 horsepower V6 engine is very quick and fuel efficient getting about 26 MPG highway. With this power the RAV4 can easily tow up to 3500 pounds making this the ideal compact SUV for towing. The RAV4 adds a 3rd row seat to seat 7 passengers. The rear seats also recline front and backwards for extra cargo capacity. The 6 cylinder model has a base price of $23,710. One of the best small SUVs for families with a lot of small kids or for people that want to tow a camper, boat or RV vehicles and still get decent gas mileage.

Hyundai Tucson

2010 Hyundai Tucson comes in with the lowest base sticker price at $19,995 and includes the longest warranty with its five-year/60,000-mile basic warranty. The Tucson has been redesigned for 2010 and has added a lot in the curvy and cute department. It even rivals the good looking RAV4. Its 176-horsepower 4 cylinder engine won’t break any speed records but it gets the job done and will get an estimated 31 MPG on the highway with the automatic transmission. Certainly one of the best small SUVs to consider for the money and excellent fuel economy.

Reviewed – Best SUV 2009!

admin — Fri, 25 Jun 2010 08:51:09 +0000

According to consumer reviews, the best SUV 2009 is the Toyota Sequoia. This vehicle comes recommended higher than any other SUV by the people, and there are dozens of reasons why it came out on the top of the polls. There are so many great features to this vehicle for people to enjoy.

The Toyota Sequoia, best SUV 2009, will provide with you amazing longevity. Toyota vehicles are well known for their amazing quality, so you can rest easy knowing that your Sequoia is built to last. The vehicle can fit up to seven passengers, and also has plenty of cargo room.

The climate in the vehicle can be controlled in three different zones for passenger comfort as well. Upgrades many people obtain are navigation systems, dvd players, and rear cameras. There are also many different safety options available, such as ABS, side airbags, an anti skid system, and also traction control.

Toyota Sequoia

Although this is a very popular vehicle, the fuel economy isn’t the greatest. The standard model of the Toyota Sequoia has a 5 speed transmission along with a V8 engine under the hood. Other options are available. Both all wheel drive and rear wheel drive are available on all models. The Sequoia is great for hauling things, such as trailers or campers. It can tow weights up to 10,000 lbs.

Overall the Sequoia is not overly priced, and is an affordable SUV. The moderate price is made up with quality, and lack of service fees. If the Sequoia is not what you are looking for, there are other SUVs that are similar and comparable.

A few of these other options are the Chevrolet Tahoe, the GMC Yukon, and the Ford Expedition. Consumer reviews have choose this SUV as the best sports utility vehicle for 2009, test drive one today and see what it can do for you.

2 of the Best Economical SUVs

admin — Fri, 21 May 2010 17:35:58 +0000

The economical and compact SUV category was initially brought to the forefront of consumers with the introduction of the Toyota RAV4 and the Honda CR-V. Since their introduction there have been a number of candidates for the consumer to choose between in their shopping process. None of these vehicles are geared toward serious off road use. They do offer the size and versatility of an economical SUV that will provide the added safety of all wheel drive with high gas mileage ratings.

The RAV4 has continued its’ evolution as a front runner in this category. It brings to the table the legendary reputation of a Toyota all wheel drive vehicle. In recent years it has also added considerable performance with the optional six-cylinder engine. They have also chosen to stick with the side hinged back gate. It allows easy access to a large cargo area, but requires the owner to consider how the load will be brought to the vehicle as well as parking considerations and the proximity of other vehicles behind the rig. The RAV4 has excellent drivability, but the driver’s compartment is snug for larger frame individuals.

Honda has a solid reputation with their CR-V with an excellent balance of power to weight. While they may not have an engine upgrade option, their standard choices work quite well for everyday driving. The most common negative is that there is considerable road noise in the cabins of these vehicles. Typical of a Honda, it has exceptional ergonomics in driver’s cockpit. Pairing that with easily accessible cargo space and a roomy cabin makes the CR-V an industry standard that will be in place for quite some time.

Subaru wrote the book on all wheel drive applications for sedans and wagons, and the Forester is no exception. With higher seating and better visibility than the Subaru wagons, the Forester is an excellent consideration in the economical SUV category. The Forester offers competitive gas mileage and good drivability due to a slightly lower center of gravity. It trails behind other vehicles with the outdated four speed automatic transmission, but the flat four-cylinder engine keeps it as a viable entry in this class.

The Santa Fe from Hyundai is another excellent choice for an economical SUV. Typical of Hyundai, they offer excellent features in a well-built vehicle. The gas mileage of the Santa Fe is comparable, cargo space excellent and detail work tolerable to good. It has a heavier feel than other choices, but not in a good way. Acceleration is a slower, turns are a little more work, and stopping distances requires wariness.

One of the most date entries in the economical SUV segment is the Tribute by Mazda. They do offer high safety ratings and decent gas mileage. Drivability is okay at best and interior space is limited compared to the other choices. Mazda has been building their reputation for a great driving experience, but it appears to have been overlooked in the Tribute. It is a solid vehicle, but lacks somewhat in the zoom-zoom aspect.

The economical SUV choices in the market are many, varied, and likely to offer great results for the diligent consumer.

Finding Affordable and Gas Efficient SUVs

admin — Thu, 25 Mar 2010 20:31:33 +0000

One thing is for sure these days, and that is the fact that the price of everything is rising! This includes the cost of fuel. With fuel prices on a constant rise, we have to, at last consider, finding efficient ways of travel, that will accommodate our every day needs.

For those who need more room than a compact car can offer, don’t lose hope. There is a gas efficient SUV waiting for you to take it home!

Taking into consideration whether or not you keep proper maintenance on your vehicle, or if you often feel the need to fly without actually being in a plane, there are several options in fuel efficient SUVs.

Hyundai Tucson

One of which is the Hyundai Tucson. Making it’s debut in 2005, this SUV gets mileage of up to 22 mpg in the city, and 27 mpg highway miles. It also offers 65.5 cubic feet for what ever you may want to haul! Of course, if you kick it into four wheel drive, you’ll lose one mile per gallon on both sides.

Toyota Highlander

Another option that you may consider is the Toyota Highlander. Also coming out in 2005, it matches the Tucson as far as miles per gallon, however, it offers a bit more horsepower and cargo space, which makes the price of purchase a bit higher.

The Mitsubishi Outlander can get you 22 mpg in the city, but it can get you 28 mpg on the highway. It comes with 60 cubic feet in cargo space. Offering you 66.2 cubic feet of storage, the Subaru Outback Wagan, when purchased with a manual transmission, gives you up to 23 city mpg, and 28 highway mpg. However, should you prefer an automatic transmission, your city miles will decrease to 22 mpg.

If your looking for the most in storage space, the Honda CR-V may be what you’re looking for. It offers you 72 cubic feet in space, and runs a very close second to the highlander in fuel efficiency.

The Ford Escape Hybrid, being the first of it’s kind on the market, is ranked # 1 in fuel efficiency, delivering up to 36 mpg for city driving, and 31 mpg on the highway, and offers you 65.5 cubic feet in storage space.

No matter what you’re looking for, or the demands of your everyday life, you can be sure that there is a fuel efficient SUV for you.

Top 4 SUV Gas Mileage Comparison

admin — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 21:13:24 +0000

Topping the list of fuel-efficient 2010 SUV vehicles is the Ford Escape Hybrid. This gas/electric model rivals the mileage capability of some sedans and rules the roost in SUV gas mileage comparison. Rated at 29-34 mpg in the city and 27-31 mpg on the open road, this small-class SUV makes visits to the pump a lot less painful than some its larger cousins. The 153 horsepower 2.5 liter inline four-cylinder engine is mated to a 94-horsepower electric motor and a CVT (continuously variable transmission). If you’re concerned about the environment you will be pleased to know that the Ford Escape Hybrid is considered an “eco-warrior” by meeting two ecological benchmarks: The Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (SULEV II) and Advanced Technology Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle (AT-PZEV) standards.
Mercury Mariner
The 2010 Mercury Mariner Hybrid equals the Escape in mileage rating and can legitimately argue for first place in any SUV gas mileage comparison . It offers something extra with its 2 or 4-wheel drive feature. A special standard plus is the regenerative braking technology that helps to recharge the nickel-metal hydride battery pack. It also enjoys the same eco-warrior status along with its Ford competitor and uses soy-based seat foam instead of petroleum-based which is more eco-friendly. Special sensors provide alerts when a collision is imminent and also combine with the Active Park Assist System to actually parallel park the vehicle while the driver operates the gas and brakes.

The 2010 Lexus 450h luxury hybrid SUV boasts a respectable 30-32 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, somewhat compensating for the sticker price and making it a real player in any SUV gas mileage comparison. Its new 3.5 liter V-6 gas engine (245 horsepower) combines with the hybrid battery to produce a total of 295 horsepower. The RX version is available in two or four-wheel drive with a CVT transmission. Although somewhat pricier than its fuel efficient competitors, it offers a low carbon emission rating and additional luxury items such as a voice recognition navigation system, a Dual-Screen Rear-Seat Entertainment, DVD player and standard XM radio. Road safety is enhanced with a windshield display of vehicle speed and turn directions, allowing the driver to keep their eyes on the road at all times.

Toyota’s 2010 Highlander hybrid SUV employs the Toyota Hybrid Synergy Drive. The 650-watt electric motor generator pairs with the 209 horsepower 3.3 liter V-6 to produce a combined 270 horsepower. Its 27 mpg city and 26 mpg highway rating can be improved with the use of the EV mode which allows full electric operation for limited distances at slower speeds. It features a backup camera to allow the driver to see what’s behind the vehicle. With seating for seven passengers this mid-size SUV also offers an incredible 94.1 cubic feet of storage space when the rear seats are configured for cargo.

Best Small SUV: 4 Top Small SUVs to Choose From

admin — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 06:01:41 +0000

Buyers looking for the best small SUV may feel intimidated by the vast selection of vehicles available to choose from. However, there’s no need to feel challenged; that’s why we’re reviewing the top selections for you, so that you can choose what you like without having to worry about quality.

No matter what kind of SUV you’re looking for, there’s one here to suit your needs. Here are 4 of the best options to choose from when looking for a compact SUV.

The Subaru Forester

The Forester is popular among owners for its improved design, with traditional SUV-style bodywork and emphasis on passenger and driver comfort. This vehicle offers standard all-wheel drive, two rows of seating, fuel economy, and powerful engines.

Although it earned rave reviews (including the Motor Trend’s Sport Utility of the Year award), the Forester has been criticized for having its outdated four-speed automatic feature; reviews have also highlighted its tendency to pitch and roll more than competitors.

The Toyota RAV4

The Toyota RAV4 is hailed by reviewers for its powerful base engine, as well as the optional V-6 engine which is the most powerful in its class but still effective at delivering excellent fuel economy.

Particularly well-reviewed design features include an optional third-row seat (which has been described as too cramped for adults but perfect for children), plenty of cargo space, and excellent safety ratings. Cons of purchasing this vehicle include minimal interior design and difficult-to-access top-tether anchors.

The Ford Escape Hybrid

The Ford Escape Hybrid is unique in its accomplishment as the leading SUV in fuel economy, offering 34 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway, surpassing the numbers of small economy vehicles.

A powerful gasoline engine and quite performance make this SUV a favorite among reviewers, who are also impressed with the space and comfort level of the interior as well as the Escape being the IIHS Top Safety Pick. Negative reviews mentioned cheap interior parts and lack of power for passing on the highway.

The Nissan Rogue

The Nissan Rogue is most popular for its design, sporting a jaunty look that earns it extra points for aestheticism, as well as for the ease of driving—reviewers state that the Rogue handles like a car.

Additional perks include comfortable seats, good safety ratings, and affordability. Reviewers were less than impressed with the loudness of this vehicle, its lack of cargo space in comparison to competitors, and poor rear visibility.

With these choices, selecting your new SUV is an easy process! Should any small SUVs be added to the list? Leave us your thoughts!

Economical SUV: Top 5 Economical SUVs

admin — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 18:45:03 +0000

The economical and compact SUV category was initially brought to the forefront of consumers with the introduction of the Toyota RAV4 and the Honda CR-V.

Since their introduction there have been a number of candidates for the consumer to choose between in their shopping process. None of these vehicles are geared toward serious off road use. They do offer the size and versatility of an economical SUV that will provide the added safety of all wheel drive with high gas mileage ratings. Here are 5 of the Top Economical SUVs on the market today.

Toyota RAV4

They have also chosen to stick with the side hinged back gate. It allows easy access to a large cargo area, but requires the owner to consider how the load will be brought to the vehicle as well as parking considerations and the proximity of other vehicles behind the rig. The RAV4 has excellent drivability, but the driver’s compartment is snug for larger frame individuals.

Honda CR-V

Honda has a solid reputation with their CR-V with an excellent balance of power to weight. While they may not have an engine upgrade option, their standard choices work quite well for everyday driving.

The most common negative is that there is considerable road noise in the cabins of these vehicles. Typical of a Honda, it has exceptional ergonomics in driver’s cockpit. Pairing that with easily accessible cargo space and a roomy cabin makes the CR-V an industry standard that will be in place for quite some time.

Subaru Forester

The Forester offers competitive gas mileage and good drivability due to a slightly lower center of gravity. It trails behind other vehicles with the outdated four speed automatic transmission, but the flat four-cylinder engine keeps it as a viable entry in this class.

Hyundai Santa Fe

It has a heavier feel than other choices, but not in a good way. Acceleration is a slower, turns are a little more work, and stopping distances requires wariness.

Mazda Tribute

Mazda has been building their reputation for a great driving experience, but it appears to have been overlooked in the Tribute. It is a solid vehicle, but lacks somewhat in the zoom-zoom aspect.

The economical SUV choices in the market are many, varied, and likely to offer great results for the diligent consumer.

Environmentally Friendly SUV: Best SUVs for the Environment

admin — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 17:21:33 +0000

Anyone who enjoys driving around in style knows that you just can’t beat the prestige, power and look of the SUV. The problem with this however is that most SUV’s on the market are not environmentally friendly SUVs, but are huge gas guzzlers accounting for a decent percentage of overall emissions. The truth is some people just like big cars and others well they just simply love the fell of an SUV under their bottom.

In the middle of a huge market reform car companies have been striving to create more environmentally friendly SUVs in recent years, this bodes extremely well for those who like big cars. More and more SUV Hybrid classes are being created and put on the market for the waiting public, we will discuss some of the pros and cons of reputable models to ever aid your choices.

Lexus RX

At around $33,000 you can pick up a Lexus RX 400h a luxury Hybrid SUV with the improved fuel economy and performance that only a hybrid can give. It gets 0-60 in 8 seconds and comes in standard and all wheel drive. This car truly strives to be green while continuing to make you feel like your in the black. It’s ride is comparable to its non hybrid counterpart.

For about the same price at $32,000 you can get the Toyota Highlander. If the Lexus married luxury to the environment ,this vehicle definitely is for those with families. It seats seven people making it the roomiest SUV on the market as of now. It rides with the luxury and power of its non hybrid counterpart but keeps the efficiency of a hybrid getting 27mpg. For growing families always on the move but weary of gas expenses this is the car.

Now for a little less money than the other two the Mercury Mariner Hybrid. The price tag for this is set at $28,867 and is virtually identical to the Ford escape hybrid. It comes equipped with AWD and a large amount of cargo space.

Another more affordable choice is the aforementioned Ford Escape Hybrid itself coming in at about $27,300. While this model is mostly identical to its non hybrid counterpart its powered by an Atkinson-cycle 4 cylinder engine which is combined with an electric motor.

With its fuel efficiency however it stands above all with its 31mpg on the highway, and 25 in the city. So relax if you are conscious of the environment yet want to remain in style there are choices out there for you.

Best SUV Cars

admin — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 19:42:05 +0000

If you’re in the market for a new sport utility vehicle then now is the perfect time to take advantage of some great deals. Like anything, there are a multitude of SUV cars to choose from.

You can select ones interior space, mileage, exterior appearance, price, etc. However, let’s take a look at some of the most dependable sport utility cars with the best bang for your buck.

What exactly is an SUV car? Succinctly stated, it is a vehicle with both car and sport utility capabilities which mean these can be used as a pickup truck as well as passenger carrying like a minivan.

In response to the many complaints about many SUVs being too masculine or truck like, manufactures have made many new generation sport utility vehicles more car-like to give that added comfort and better fuel efficiency. However, these recent models are not advised for off road use.

The good news is that he compact models of SUVs are prized economically compared to other models. SUV cars contain 4 and 6 cylinder engines which give them more power utility.

Ford Escape SUV

The Ford Escape was the first car-based compact SUV which made it a top seller. With a 2.3-liter, the four-cylinder is a viable choice with good gas mileage. A V-6 model is also available, as is a gasoline/electric hybrid version.

It has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 36 mpg in the city and 31 mpg in highway driving for the two-wheel-drive version. With average reliability and acceptable crash tests with the side-airbag option, the Ford Escape is a good choice for an SUV car.

The Honda CR-V has been a favorite for years because of its reliability. It is moderately price in the mid twenties and is the quintessential SUV car. It comes with your choice of front- or all-wheel drive brings increased gas mileage of 23/30 mpg (city/highway) and 22/28 mpg, respectively. If you look past the conservative exterior styling and you’ll find it the best-designed small SUV in this price range when it comes to interior aesthetics and day-to-day practicality.

The Toyota RAV4 is a top pick for a crossover SUV, especially if you want a V6 or a usable kid-size third-row seat. Although the interior has a budget feel, consumers will benefit from nice power, fuel economy, balanced ride/handling, roomy second-row seating, low cargo floor, solid build quality, and high crash test scores.

Seating for five is standard but limited trim levels increases capacity to seven people. Also, RAV4s can be equipped with either front-wheel or four-wheel drive.

The Kia Sorrento is a great choice for anyone looking for a vehicle capable of handling serious work both on road and off. With stylish, truck-based SUV with lots of amenities, it is priced below the competition. The suspension and quick electric steering make daily errands much more enjoyable than they would be in most SUVs.

New models have a 3.3L V6, which has 242-horsepower and 228 lb-ft of torque, the 2008 Kia Sorrento offers an attractive engine alternative to the excellent 3.8L V6 that puts out 262-horsepower and 260 lb-ft. It has excellent NHTSA crash ratings, impressive warranty, and competitive pricing across the range.

While there are many SUV cars to choose from, it is imperative to conduct the proper research in order to find the best vehicle for your needs.

Best SUV Crossover – Toyota Rav4