Optional SUV

The Bottom Line: The 2009 Dodge Ram 1500 Laramie managed to surprise us with its excellent performance and handling, as well as its well-appointed cabin and tech. This is definitely a great option for the sophisticated truck buyer.

Specs: Truck, Ram Pickup 1500, Gas

The Bottom Line: The 2008 Toyota Highlander Limited is a well-equipped crossover with some advanced cabin technology and a smooth power train. Aside from some questionable cabin materials, the Highlander is a worthy contender in a competitive segment.

Specs: SUV, Limited, Gas

The Bottom Line: The 2008 Toyota Highlander Limited is a well-equipped crossover with some advanced cabin technology and a smooth power train. Aside from some questionable cabin materials, the Highlander is a worthy contender in a competitive segment.

Specs: SUV, Sport, Gas

The Bottom Line: The 2008 Toyota Highlander Limited is a well-equipped crossover with some advanced cabin technology and a smooth power train. Aside from some questionable cabin materials, the Highlander is a worthy contender in a competitive segment.

Specs: SUV, Sport, Gas

The Bottom Line: The 2006 Nissan Pathfinder is a solid performer that offers drivers and front passengers a plenitude of cabin comfort and technology without venturing in the realm of the luxurious. Rear passengers, however, will find the back seats a squeeze.

Specs: SUV, LE, Gas

The Bottom Line: The 2006 Jeep Commander is a powerful and well-appointed upscale SUV. While its performance blows the doors off the competition over any terrain, a cramped interior and clunky cabin tech bring it down.

Specs: SUV, Limited, Gas

The Bottom Line: The 2006 Subaru B9 Tribeca tries to be too many things to too many people, its gimmicky exterior styling representing the car accurately in this regard. But under the skin, a competent chassis and well-designed electronic systems await.

Specs: SUV, Ltd. 7-Pass., Gas

The Bottom Line: The 2005 Volvo XC90 is comfortable and easy to drive but doesn't connect to MP3 players or cell phones.

Specs: SUV, 2.5T, Gas

The Bottom Line: Beyond a few proprietary issues, the Mercedes-Benz ML350 offers better comfort and performance than most street-oriented SUVs.

Specs: SUV, ML350, Gas

The Bottom Line: Volkswagen builds a powerful set of off-road systems into the extremely civilized Touareg SUV, although it needs a navigation update.

Specs: SUV, V6, Gas