The Toyota Highlander has a sticker price starting at $28,804 and climbing to $37,600. The standard package has a 3.2 liter V6 engine. SUVs aren’t necessarily economical to drive, and Toyota has tackled this problem with an optional 3.5 liter V6 hybrid engine. The gas mileage of the Highlander hybrid is a middle-of-the-road 28 mpg combined (29 mpg highway, 27 mpg city), which is representative of the Highlander’s overall performance. It is still the most popular 4wd SUV on the market. It seats seven with an new luxury interior that you might find in a mid-priced luxury automobile. Attractive leather trimmed seats and wood paneled cab components make for a pleasant experience. It handles well on the highway.

The Ford Escape 4wd has a sticker price starting at a low $23,109 with a standard 4-cylinder engine. It is an affordable SUV with some nice features. The Escape’s price goes up dramatically with the addition of extras — including a new hybrid engine at $10,000. Add more stuff and the price goes up to $35,124. With the hybrid engine you can get okay gas mileage: 28 mpg combined (29 mpg highway, 27 mpg city). You may get similar mileage with the standard engine, just by slightly over-inflating the tires! It seats five with abundant cargo space. It is a wonder to drive off and on the road, with a 5 speed manual transmission on the floor. This is an excellent buy at the base price.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee has been brought out in a slightly bigger edition. The size can be felt primarily in the interior. The size is less than visible outside. It has an economical 3.6 liter V6 engine that gets 23 mpg combined (22 mpg city, 25 mpg highway). A 390 hp V8 is also available — an option that would probably be more attractive if gas prices weren’t headed into the stratosphere. The 290 hp V6 is a pretty good engine though — able to handle a big SUV. The price starts at around $40,000 and goes up from there. It seats four comfortably because of the added interior space. Like Jeep Grand Cherokees of the past, this year’s model is fast and powerful.

The Nissan Xterra is a truly rugged entry in this class — unchanged in this respect from previous years. It is focused on robust off-road performance, and it has an easy-to-clean interior to better deal with the mud and grime you experience off the road. Gas mileage might be what you expect for an SUV with the off-road capabilities of the Xterra: 18 mpg combined (16 mpg city, 20 mpg highway). This is the most authentic off-road experience you will find in a 4wd SUV. The price starts at $24,000 and climbs to $37,000 depending on the package you order.

The Toyota Highlander is one of the cars that have already caught the eye of many people . People who wish to have the best 7 passenger crossover must take a look at this SUV from Toyota because it might be what they are looking for.

The Toyota Highlander has a few different models. They are the Highlander, Highlander SE, Highlander Limited, Highlander Hybrid and the Highlander Hybrid Limited.

Toyota Highlander SE

The Highlander is a 7-seater vehicle with a third row of seats. It comes with 17-inch alloy wheels that are just big enough for this full-size SUV. This SUV has 7 airbags for safety purposes and a CenterStow second row seat.

The Highlander SE version is more expensive because it comes with a power liftgate, leather-trimmed interior, and multi-stage heated front seats for the people who want to have more comfort in their vehicles.

The Highlander Limited has a wood-grain-style interior trim in addition to the leather trim that the SE version has to offer. It makes this version even more luxurious looking compared to the SE model. The Limited model also boasts a 10-way power driver’s seat, smart key system and the three-zone climate control. The climate control is very useful especially if someone is not feeling well in the vehicle.

The Highlander and the Highlander SE comes in 2 2WD models where one is a 2.7L 4-cylinder engine while the other one is a 3.5L V6 engine. There is also a 4WD model with the 3.5L V6 engine. The Highlander Limited on the other hand comes only in the 2WD and 4WD models with the 3.5L V6 engine.

The Hybrid version of the Highlander is more eco-friendly because it has the EV mode, the ECON mode and the Hybrid synergy drive so that you can be able to drive without harming the environment. While the Hybrid Limited version is just like the ordinary Limited version because everything is designed to make the inside look more luxurious. All other features are similar to the Hybrid.

Another option that comes with this vehicle is that you can choose to have 19-inch wheels, which will make the vehicle that much bigger. This option is a good one because this car looks so much better bigger anyway.

With all the benefits that you get from this car, it would be one of the best choices to get if you are looking for the best 7 passenger crossover that is out in the market right now. The price of the car is very competitive and it will be worth the investment if you ever decide to get one for yourself.

The first 4wd suv model for consumers to look into when on the market is the 2011 Toyota Highlander Hybrid 4WD model. Offering great fuel mileage for an SUV, you get 28 city, 28 highway, and an overall combined mileage of 28 MPG. The base price for this hybrid is pretty pricey, coming in at $37,290, however, for a fuel efficient hybrid, with a great name like Toyota, you can expect excellent performance and quality. It also comes with an excellent base package including: leather interior, seating for up to 8, sporty and sleek exterior look, 6-CD changer, sunroof, navigation system, auto ignition start with the push of a button, and many add-ons can also be added, but will cost you. For a fuel efficient, great manufacturer in the industry, this is a top contender.

Another great 4WD Suv is the 2011 Lexus RX 450h, which comes in at a base of $43,235. Although pricey, it does have the luxury name all consumers would love to have. It offers 32 highway and 28 city MPG; and gets an overall 30 MPG. It is a great pick offering: great gas mileage, a smooth noise free ride, luxurious upgrades (navigation, heated leather seats, optional third row seating for up to 7), and all the luxurious features you would expect from a Lexus. For a luxury model you can rely on, this is a great option for consumers to consider.

Next up is the 2011 Ford Escape Hybrid 4WD, coming in a little more reasonably priced at $29,935 for the base model. Getting 34 highway, 31 city, and a combined 32 MPG, this is an extremely fuel efficient, money saving 4WD suv to consider. It is not as luxurious as other models, but does offer great features for the price. Seating for up to 8, great cargo and hidden storage space, a smooth ride on the highway, excellent safety features, and additional add-ons consumers can choose from. For a fuel efficient, well priced vehicle, the Escape is definately a contender in the market as well.

Another great model is the 2011 Subaru outback Wagon 4WD. Extremely reasonably priced at $23,195, it gets 29 highway, 22 city, and an overall 24 MPG on the road. Although it doesn’t offer luxury, it does offer a smooth ride, base features (power windows and seats, auto lock, and safety features); it also seats up to 7. This is a great cost saving 4WD suv to consider.

Depending on your choice of luxury vs non-luxury, and the manufacturer name you are looking for, there are several great 4wd suvs on the market today for consumers to consider.

The Lexus RX 450h 4 wheel drive delivers an extremely safe driving capability, on all terrains, including the snow. It has a room interior, seating up to 7, and offers a combined 29 MPG fuel efficient choice. The model is one of the few hybrids offered by Lexus, and offers a powerful drive, yet still giving consumers great fuel mileage for an suv. It has a 3.5 liter engine, and also uses an electic motor, giving a powerful yet smooth ride. The base price for this luxury model is $46,000, but offers all the luxury you could ask for, including: navigation system, sunroof, leather interiors, storage space, wood trims, auto transmission, satellite radio, and other base features. To top it off, it offers superior handling and safety features, to keep your family safe on long rides.

The Ford Escape Hybrid four wheel drive offer 31 mpg highway and 28 mpg city, getting a combined 29 MPG overall. The model can comfortably seat up to five, and has plenty of cargo space for all the storage you might need. The base price comes in at $31,500, which is more affordable, yet doesn’t offer luxury features. It has a cloth interior base, power windows/locs, CD changer, radio, and other basic features found in most vehicles. But, if you are looking for a fuel efficient, and economical vehicle, this is a great option to consider.

The Toyota Highlander Hybrid four wheel drive, can seat up to 7 with the third row up, and up to five when the third row is folded down, providing for extra cargo space for storage. It gets a combined 28 MPG on the road, houses an electric motor and a 3.5 liter engine, giving the car a smooth ride. It comes at a base price of $37,490, although a little pricey, it is roomier than many models on the market, and offers a great manufacture name backing its performance. It also offers several luxury features such as leather seats, navigation with optional voice sync activation, a sunroof, heated electric seats, auto ignition start from the keychain, and a 6-CD changer AM/FM radio. It offers a sporty looking exterior, yet a refined and neat interior for any consumer.

No matter what your considerations are when on the market for the best 4 wheel drive suv on the market today, there is no shortage in options for consumers to choose from. Depending on if you are an economical shopper, a luxury seeker, someone looking to save on the cost of gas, or just looking for a great ride for comfort on long trips, there is a great 4 wheel drive suv on the market for every consumer looking.

So why choose a hybrid SUV over a conventional model? Hybrid SUVs combine the great features of SUVs along with a duel power source. They operate with both gas engine and electric motor making for a highly efficient driving experience.

The 2012 Hybrid SUV models are high end vehicles that provide fuel efficiency far surpassing what a conventional SUV can offer. Plus, along with better fuel economy, hybrids have lower emission levels.

Let’s compare three of the top Hybrid SUVs of 2012. These three represent a good cross-section of the available SUV hybrids.

As you might expect, the major drawback to any 2012 Hybrid SUV is the cost. You’ll need to put quite a few miles on to recover this additional cost, especially for larger size models.

As far as hybrid SUVs are concerned, there’s no denying the appeal of the 2012 Ford Escape Hybrid. The gas powered model has traditionally been the best selling SUV manufactured by Ford. With the introduction of the hybrid version of the Escape, consumers have even more options.

Ford Escape Hybrid

The Ford Escape Hybrid version is a smaller SUV which seats five passengers comfortably and has cargo space of about 66 cubic feet.

The Escape comes with a 2.5 liter, 4 cylinder gas powered engine which operates along with an electric motor. You can travel at speeds of up to 44 mph powered by the electric motor alone, for limited distances. At higher speeds or over longer distances, the gas motor kicks in to supplement the electric motor.

Where the Hybrid Escape comes out ahead is in fuel efficiency. And it does that well compared to other hybrid SUVs. Coming in at 34 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway, this is the most fuel efficient SUV in its class

The suggested retail price for a base model is around $30,500 making it possibly the most affordable hybrid SUV on the market.

The Toyota Highlander Hybrid has been on the market for seven years. It’s certainly earned its reputation as the most popular of the mid-sized SUVs. The 2012 Toyota Highlander Hybrid should have no trouble maintaining that popularity.

Toyota Highlander Hybrid

Although rated as a seven seat SUV, the third row seats do tend to be on the small size. Adults may find them a bit cramped for real comfort. But by limiting the size, the Highlander Hybrid is able to achieve great fuel economy.

It’s rated at 28 mpg for both highway and city driving, which is even better than earlier models and great for an SUV of this size.

Credit goes to the 3.5 liter V6 engine combined with 2 electric motors. The Highlander can run for up to 1 mile entirely on electric power at low speeds, making it ideal for use in stop-and-go city driving.

Although the Highlander Hybrid SUV is an all-wheel drive vehicle, it’s not suitable for off-roading which may disappoint if you’re expecting the 4-wheel drive experience. The trade-off though comes in a smoother ride.

The cost of the base model which starts at just over $38,000 is good value for this 2012 Hybrid SUV.

If you’re looking for an SUV heavy enough to do some towing, the 2012 GMC Yukon Hybrid is the one for you. The Yukon is a full-sized SUV with a roomy seating capacity of 8. Cargo space of about 110 cubic feet is included to provide lots of room for just about anything you want to bring along.

GMC Yukon Hybrid

The Yukon Hybrid is powered by a 6.0L Vortec V8 engine along with an electric motor. Even with a V8 engine, the Yukon gets an impressive 20 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway.

This kind of fuel efficiency is achieved with an engine that’s designed to conserve fuel whenever possible. If less power is needed while you’re on the road, smart technology shuts down four of the eight cylinders.

This 2012 Hybrid SUV has optional 4 wheel drive available if you’d like to do some of-roading,

Although pricier than the Escape or Highlander, with a base price of about $52,000, the Yukon provides good value for what you’re getting.

Discerning consumers will be hard pressed to find a better alternative than the 2012 Hybrid SUV models. By combining fuel efficiency with the many features loved by SUV enthusiasts, you have a winning combination.

Otherwise, much of it depends on your budget, the size of your family, how much you need to store and even how important the overall look is to you. Here are some of the contenders that did fairly well across the board.

 Top 2011 SUV Models

Toyota RAV4

Whenever a vehicle, especially an SUV, ranks this high in safety it practically secures its spot in any top rated lists. Luckily, the RAV4 has more to offer than just safety. Many consumers prefer this Toyota SUV because it is a compact and sporty choice for this type of automobile. Even with being compact, it is considered one of the most user and family friendly options and can seat up to seven passengers.

The bad news is that drivers tend to offer feedback about the interior feeling cheap when put side by side with other compact SUVs. Of course, the upside is the powerful V6 engine powering the Toyota RAV4. If you want a winning combination of space, fuel efficiency and dependability, then you may want to take a look at this safe compact SUV.

Infiniti FX

For one of the best 2011 SUV contenders when considering midsized luxury, you may want to consider the Infiniti SUV. Drivers seem to enjoy the performance this vehicle offers them. For fuel economy, this one gets an EPA rating of 16 miles per gallon for city roads and 23 for the highway travels. It is also considered one of the more sporty and attractive options around for this market.

In addition to the power, driving enjoyment and style, the Infiniti FX features a good deal of high tech features. Of course, it has its downside, but the complaints are few and nothing of a serious nature except for some drivers reporting of some visibility issues. While the Infiniti can certainly tackle going off the beaten path, many were disappointed by the fact that they felt it wasn’t as practical as some other choices on the market.

Chevrolet Suburban

This has all you need and more, which is ironically one of the negative comments many experts have. Who really needs this much towing capacity or space for passengers or cargo? Well, if you do or just think you do, you may love this traditional full-size SUV. Even if it is more Sports Utility Vehicle than you really need, it offers a roomy and comfortable interior that can often get lost when it comes to designing an SUV, and this is one that can seat up to nine passengers.

The EPA fuel rating for the Chevy is 15 for surface streets and 21 for the highway, which isn’t the greatest but it is a lot of vehicle being fueled. The exterior looks a little dated, but the interior is as attractive as it is comfortable. The engine you get with the Suburban is a 5.3 liter for the 1500 model or a 6.0 liter V8 on the 2500.

Toyota Highlander Hybrid

If a hybrid is what you are looking for, then the Toyota Highlander should be a top choice on your list. In fact, for 2011 the Toyota Highlander Hybrid won the US News Best Cars for Families. Not only is this one safe and affordable, it gets good fuel economy ratings, which will help you save more in the long run. The Highlander is one of the few hybrid SUVs that gets the same mileage all around in fact. For both city driving or highway roads, you can expect to get 28 miles per gallon. Consumer feedback raved about the look, interior space and comfort.

Powering this Toyota is a 3.5 liter V6 that produces 280 horsepower. You also get one quiet and smooth ride with this hybrid SUV choice. On the other hand, many consumers felt the fuel economy could not justify the rather high Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price, even though hybrids are often a higher asking price than standard SUVs.

You have a lot of options when it comes to choosing an SUV for whatever your needs are. If you are still unsure, make a list of the thing you need such as room for seven passengers or great safety ratings, and this should help with your decision-making. This should help you decide which best 2011 SUV is right for you.

Not only that but even those SUVs that boast third row seating that can accommodate 8 passengers don’t always live up to their promise of being comfortable. Find out about some of the choices you have when it come to today’s sports utility vehicle market.

The Chevy Tahoe

There are pros and cons to this one, but it is backed by the trusted Chevy name. One downfall of the Chevy SUV seems to be that it does not have the pick up and speed some other SUVs have. However, it does have a 5.3 liter 8 cylinder engine, which gives it 320 horsepower.

As far as safety features go, the Tahoe offers traction control, stability and air bags, although those are fairly common and standard. Also standard on the Tahoe are 20 inch chrome wheels and a power, remote liftgate.

The Honda Pilot

When doing an 8 seater SUV comparison, you have to include the Honda. The Honda name is synonymous with dependability and value. When it comes to the Pilot, it is no different. This SUV is known to be spacious, which is rare when it comes to 8 seaters or third row seating sports utility vehicles at all. It even leaves room for ample storage.

The engine is an impressive V6 that offers 250 horsepower. With the Honda you are not getting as much power for towing capacity or horsepower, but the price reflects this. As far as gas mileage goes, you can also get a fairly respectable 25 miles per gallon on the highway. The main con of the Pilot is that consumers complain about the long distance required for braking, which can make it slightly more dangerous than other SUVs. Otherwise, this is a good family friendly SUV choice.

The Lincoln Navigator

Surprisingly, one of the main complaints among those who bought a Navigator is that it is difficult to get in and out of. The big bonus for this vehicle is that the third row seating is known to be comfortable, even for adult passengers. It is also known to be a smooth ride and a vehicle that handles well in all types of road conditions.

It has a 5.4 liter V8 engine, but is still supposedly weak, as consumers report. The fuel economy is about down the middle when comparing SUVS with 14 miles per gallon for city driving and 20 for the highway. Like most SUVs now, the standard edition has a power liftgate and front seats that can be heated or cooled. The bottom line is that the Lincoln Navigator is big and may not even be so for a good reason.

The Toyota Highlander

Consumers mention that the Highlander looks classy, but those who want something that looks more like a sturdy and strong SUV aren’t thrilled with the design. For those who want an 8 seater sports utility vehicle that actually offers comfort not just third row seating, this may be a good choice. It is actually in the 7 seater category, but can accomodate8 passengers. The interior is known for being roomy while still allowing some space for storage. The engine has been well received by those who own it and it is a 2.7 liter, 4 cylinder V6 engine that gets 187 horsepower.

The Nissan Armada

One of the reasons the Nisssan SUV does so well on the market is that it boasts impressive towing capabilities and has more power than you may expect from a Nissan. It has a 5.6 liter V8 engine and 317 horsepower. Consumers especially like it for its unique safety features. In addition to standard air bags, the Armada has active head restraints and side curtain airbags.

The downfall of the Nissan sports utility vehicle is the 13 miles per gallon for city driving and 19 on highways. Also, many people do not feel the look is exactly what they want when it comes to an SUV. The Nissan also offers stability control and traction control, making it a safe and smooth ride for the whole family.

The Final Word

Much of what you want in an SUV is based on your own individual needs. If you know you need an 8 seater SUV, your options may be more limited than with other needs for an SUV. However, with enough research and test driving, you can find the perfect sports utility vehicle for you and your family’s needs.

What Is an SUV?

First of all, let’s discuss what an SUV actually is. The term SUV is an acronym for Sport Utility Vehicle. There are many different types of SUVs available on the market today, and they have different uses. Some are specifically geared towards soccer moms, while others are marketed to those who love outdoor adventures. A seven passenger SUV will hold seven passengers, which includes the driver. There is a lot of storage space in these vehicles, and they are able to haul loads that are similar to loads a full-size pickup trick can haul. As a rule, these vehicles are very popular with families, and are usually used as passenger vehicles. There are even hybrid seven passenger SUVs available for those who are environment conscious and want to save money on their fuel costs.

What to Look For

If you are in the market for a new 7 seater SUV, there are a few things that you should be looking for. Obviously, one of your first considerations, besides the vehicle having enough room, is to make sure that it gives good gas mileage. There are many larger vehicles out there that are great for hauling big families around, but they can really make a dent in your wallet when you visit the pumps. One option would be to get a hybrid, which will help you to save a lot of money on gas. Other things you need to consider when choosing an SUV include:

• Price – SUVs range in prices depending on the features you want them to come with.
• Safety Features – There should be certain safety features that are standard on all SUVs, and you should also look for models that offer additional safety features.
• Safety Rating – Make sure the SUV you ultimately choose has an excellent safety rating.
• Performance – You will want to know if the vehicles you are looking at have any performance issues. You would do well to go online and check out the various reviews and articles that are there about the different SUV models available.
• Warranty – If you are getting a new vehicle, you need to make sure that the warranty is one that is going to work for you.

7 Passenger SUV Models

If you are looking for a 7 seater SUV for your family, there are many different models you can choose from, available from a number of auto manufacturers. With one of these vehicles, you can be sure that you will be able to seat your family comfortably, even for long road trips, and you will have plenty of room left over for everything you need to bring along wherever you are going. Some of the more popular models of seven passenger SUVs include:

• GMC 7 Passenger SUVs – There are a variety of different 7 passenger SUVs available from GMC, all of which are very popular. You may be interested in the Chevy Tahoe which is extremely popular, or the GMC Yukon. If you are looking for more of a luxury vehicle, the Cadillac Escalade may be an excellent option for you.

• Toyota 7 Passenger SUVs – There are a few different SUV models from Toyota that you may be interested in test driving. All popular are the Rav4, the FJCruiser and the Highlander. Other popular SUV models from Toyota include the 4Runner, the Sequoia and the Land Cruiser, and one of the most popular is the Toyota Sienna.

• Ford 7 Passenger SUVs – One of the most popular SUVs from Ford is the Expedition. Other popular models include the Escape, the Sport Trac, the Explorer and the Escape Hybrid.

There are many different types of vehicles you can choose from. A 7 seater SUV, which is going to provide you with the space you need, and all of the safety features that will protect you and your family while you are on the road.

Why Do You Need an SUV?

There are a number of reasons why more people are driving SUVs these days. For one thing, they are larger than a typical family car, which means that they can, not only carry more passengers, they can also be used to carry around more stuff, whether it be your groceries, or your camping gear. A 6 passenger SUV gives you all kinds of options, because not only is it larger, because an SUV is made for families, it will have all of the safety features you are looking for. You can take many SUVs off road for fun and excitement, and they are great for taking your kids to school, sporting events, and more.

Types of SUVs

Many companies are introducing their own SUVs. Take Mazda for example. They have the Mazda 5 SUV with HID (high intensity discharge) headlights that will help you to see better while you are driving at night. It comes standard with auto-rain sense windshield wipers, and even heated side mirrors so you don’t get a buildup of ice and snow as you are driving in poor weather. The taillights are mounted high for better vision, and there are a number of other great safety features that come standard on this particular model of SUV. Another option from Mazda is the CX-9; although it is a six-seater, it can easily seat up to seven people.

If you are considering getting a 6 passenger SUV, there are a few things you need to consider. For one thing, you will have to decide if you want a car or truck-based SUV. A car-based SUV is easier on gas and your budget, while a truck-based SUV is great if you are going to be heading for the great outdoors a lot. Here are some more of the most popular models available:

• Mitsubishi Outlander – This will run about $27,000, and you have both four wheel and front wheel drive combinations. There is plenty of room in this SUV for the whole family, as well as all the things you need to bring along with you for a fun family vacation. Safety features include anti-lock brakes, six airbags, and vehicle stability control. The Outlander gives you 23mpg in the city, and 28mpg on the highway.

• Toyota Highlander – This is a very popular model, although it is a little pricier than other models, starting at around $25,000 and going as high as $37,000. This is a fuel efficient vehicle, with 20 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway, and it is also loaded with safety features. The Highlander is roomy and comfortable, and is available as a four-wheel or front-wheel drive.

• Lexus GX 460 – If money is no option, then you may want to consider getting this vehicle. It is a luxury SUV that seats six, and offers good fuel efficiency with 15 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway. All models have the basic safety features standard, and there are power adjustable pedals and parking sensors. There is also an automatic climate control, and a remote starter.

• Ford Explorer – This is one of the more popular brands, for many types of autos including SUVs. There are a number of Ford SUVs available, including the 4X4 XLT, the 4X2 XLT, the 4X2 Eddie Bauer, the 4X4 Eddie Bauer, and the all-wheel drive limited. Standard features include run-down battery protection, transmission oil cooler, side curtain airbags, front anti-roll bar, and gas-pressured front shocks. You also have the option of getting a moon roof, a voice-activated navigational system, and bucket seats. The wheels are a standard 18 inches, although you do have the option of getting 20 inch wheels.

If you are considering getting yourself an SUV, you need to learn about the many different models available. Find out which types are within your price range, and which are going to be the easiest, and least expensive to use. Do your homework, take a few test drives, and you can be sure that you will find the right 6 passenger SUV for you.

When a vehicle is designed for seven passengers, you can be certain there is plenty of cargo space for pets or items such as tools, as well as seat belts, air bags and elbow room for the passengers. Not to mention, now with better designing in mind, most crossover vehicles are much more fuel efficient. Of course, there are a many of them on the market, as car manufacturers scramble to keep up with the competition. So, before selecting one to buy, it is a good idea to know a little about what is available.

What You Get with Seven-Passenger Crossover Vehicles

A crossover vehicle is, basically, a vehicle design that utilizes the frame of a car to handle the body of a smaller sized SUV. Generally, this works for people who do not plan to do much, if any, off roading and do not need the towing capacity of the bigger, stronger full sized sports utility vehicles. If you would rather have some of the functions of an SUV, need something with more power and space than a car and would like the handling of something the size of a minivan, then a crossover utility vehicle may be just the thing for you.

The Honda Pilot

What many like about the Honda Pilot, aside from the attractive design, is the power that comes from the V6 3.5 liter engine. The engine on the Pilot also comes complete with variable cylinder management, which increases your fuel efficiency and lowers your emissions. As for miles per gallon, this Honda crossover gets 17 while city navigating and 23 for the highway. It doesn’t hurt that the crash test scores were close to perfect for this vehicle, either.

There is plenty that comes with the Honda Pilot Crossover, such as a navigation system and power tailgate. There are other important safety features on the Pilot, including traction control, stability assist and automatic independent wheel braking for regaining driver control. Honda has earned a reputation as being dependable, as far as vehicles go, and this Honda Crossover promises the same high standards.

The Toyota Highlander

You can’t have a list of top seven-passenger crossover vehicles without including the Toyota Highlander CUV. Part of the strong positive feedback has been the feel and handling of this crossover vehicle. In fact, many claim it has car-like maneuverability as opposed to even feeling as bulky as a minivan. It has muscle, coming with a V6 engine to power it.

For those who are concerned about safety, you will want to know Motor Trend magazine gave the Toyota crossover the highest rating. Safety features include front and side air bags, electronic stabilization and a backup camera, just to name a few. With the Highlander, you also get details such as all-wheel drive and energy management.

The Chevrolet Traverse

Again, some of the popularity for the Chevy Traverse comes from the great handling consumers seem to feel it has. This is, indeed, one smooth ride and comparable to the feel of driving a car and not a truck or minivan. It also has one of the best fuel economy ratings on the market for this type of vehicle. That’s because the Chevy Crossover gets 24 miles per gallon for highway driving.

With the Traverse, you also get a vehicle with a five star safety rating, a relatively affordable price point and all-wheel drive. Many people are thrilled with the spacious cargo areas the Chevy CUV has included into the interior design. While it may not have quite as many standard whistles and bells as some other seven-passenger crossover vehicles, you do get things such as on-board entertainment for kids and rear parking audio assist.

The Crossover Crossroad

As you can see, there are plenty of car manufacturers producing crossovers for you to choose from. The idea is to determine just how much power, towing capability and off roading ability you need. If you can do with less than what a standard sports utility vehicle offers, but need more than just a car, a seven-passenger crossover vehicle may be just what you and your family need.