Standard SUV

The Bottom Line: The 2010 Honda Pilot provides room and entertainment for many passengers, but its cabin tech isn't of the highest caliber and innovative engine technologies don't deliver on their promise of increased fuel economy.

Specs: SUV, Gas

The Bottom Line: The 2009 Dodge Nitro R/T 4X4 shovels a good cabin tech package into a vehicle that delivers mediocre performance and economy.

Specs: SUV, R/T, Gas

The Bottom Line: The 2009 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid combines ostentatious luxury with an overt green theme, while offering seating for seven, cargo room, and fuel economy worthy of a V-6.

Specs: SUV, Hybrid

The Bottom Line: The 2009 Chevrolet Traverse is a big family hauler with a few modern features. It shows a good direction for Chevrolet, but hasn't quite caught up with the rest of the world.

Specs: SUV, LTZ, Gas

The Bottom Line: Ford's cabin tech sets the 2009 Mercury Mariner Hybrid far ahead of the competition, with extremely convenient features, and the hybrid system allows for gas-free driving at low speeds in this small and practical SUV.

Specs: SUV, Hybrid

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 GMC Yukon Hybrid provides the most power, utility, and economy available today. It makes a good choice if you need to haul people, cargo, and trailers, but it comes up a little short in its cabin tech.

Specs: SUV, Hybrid

The Bottom Line: The 2009 Dodge Journey is a well-sized seven-passenger crossover with a full collection of cabin tech options to keep occupants entertained, but its thirsty V-6 spells trouble at the pump.

Specs: SUV, R/T, Gas

The Bottom Line: The 2008 Mercury Mariner Hybrid has the practical configuration of a small SUV, along with the low emissions and good fuel economy of a hybrid. Its cabin electronics are up-to-date, although not extraordinary.

Specs: SUV, Base, Hybrid

The Bottom Line: Although it has some of the trappings of a crossover, the 2007 GMC Acadia feels a lot like an SUV. Its tech offerings are considerable, but it gets pricey when fully optioned up.

Specs: SUV, SLT-2, Gas