Mid Size SUV Models
Mid size SUVs have been some of the most popular vehicle types since the nineties, largely due to their practicality and utilitarian image. For many car owners, a mid size SUV combines the features of large towing capacity and efficient passenger carrying space - not so big, not so small. With their build, mid size SUVs are also termed as off-road vehicles or 4x4 autos, even though that is not always the case. But the newer mid size SUV reviews indicate a trend of a cross-over feel towards a lighter car experience, putting these SUVs in the class of large sedans or station wagons rather than heavy duty utility vehicles.
The popularity of mid size SUVs in North America came from the desire of consumers for everything large. With the release of the Jeep Cherokee in 1984, potential auto owners wanted something bigger to replace the smaller cars popular in the 1970's. The want for larger vehicles is translated by car owners as wanting to have more cabin space, higher ride height, and perception of safety that comes with large vehicles. But, as the first decade of the 21st century closes, the trend of SUVs has taken the compact route with lower ground clearance, sleeker car-feel look, and more speed. To many, the top rated mid size SUVs have the most to offer compared to other great models in other classes.
2008 Honda Pilot
The best mid size SUVs are rated using five general components; namely, performance, interior, exterior, safety, and reliability. In these five areas, the 2008 Honda Pilot tops the list of the best mid size SUVs in 2008. The Honda Pilot has the excellent combination of quality performance, roomy and luxurious interior, and outstanding safety and reliability data. Car and Driver has named the Honda Pilot as one the 5 best trucks every year since it debuted in the U.S. Intellichoice also named the Pilot the Best Overall Value of the Year in 2008 due to its highly justified and affordable ownership cost. The Honda Pilot is in the sleeker side in its class of mid size SUVs sporting a V6 engine - just the right engine for its size and purpose. A lot of critics also give high scores on the Pilot's maneuverability and handling, while Insurance Institute of Highway Safety chose the Pilot as a Top Safety Pick. Taking all this into consideration, it is not surprising that such a well-built car will be mentioned among the best of the best mid size SUVs in 2008.
2007 Nissan Murano Mid Size SUV
The 2007 Nissan Murano is also another proud member of the top rated mid size SUVs today. Its biggest trump cards over other mid size SUVs is its bold exterior styling that resembles a humpbacked space wagon with lots of style. When one looks at the Nissan Murano, the clear cut design and profile reflect what a 21st century car should look like. In addition to such praise on the exterior component, the Nissan Murano also drew the reviewer's praise as having one of the "best V6 engines in history." The Murano is right up there with the Honda Pilot when it comes to the safest mid size SUVs - a product of rigorous crash testing and various safety features that other mid size SUVs do not have.
Buick Enclave Mid Size SUV
The Buick Enclave's sleek looking exterior and quiet riding experience makes it worthy to be included in the list of the top rated mid size SUVs this year. The interior cabin is both spacious and comfortable with seating for up to eight people. That is more than the usual space that other mid size SUVs provide. Its roomy interior also ensures that you can take a lot of materials in it for out of town trips and long journeys. While it may not follow the car-oriented trend in today's mid size SUVs, the Enclave combination of size and versatility makes it an excellent option for car owners who want more legroom.
The other notable top rated mid size SUVs according to rankings from U.S. News (http://usnews.rankingsandreviews.com/cars-trucks/rankings/Affordable-Midsize-SUVs/) are the 2008 GM Acadia, 2008 Saturn Outlook, 2008 Toyota FJ Cruiser, and the 2008 Ford Edge. The GMC Acadia is known for its cargo space and ride experience, although it could use an increase in power, while the Saturn outlook is known more for its fuel economy and capacity.
As 2008 continues, these top mid size SUV models will be updating their specifications to compete again with one another. Mid size SUVs will continue to roll with the crossover theme, where anything between the extremes of a car and a utility vehicle is a mid size SUV. The fascinating thing about this market is that there is a lot of room for creativity and adjustment for the auto manufacturers, as consumers continue to decide what they really want - a prerequisite for a highly competitive market for years to come.
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