Best SUV 2012

2012 was a contentious year amongst SUV car brands. New models, designs, engines, and complete brand overhauls came about that shifted the way we will look at SUVs from here on out. Some of those leading the way include Chevy, GMC and VW. US news made an in-depth study evaluating all of the 2012 SUVs from safety and performance, to the exterior and interior designs. In a consolidated format below, I have laid out some of the main points to be taken away from the study. Have a look, and see what you think!

The top rated SUVs of 2012 (rated by us news) are as follows:

1) 2012 Chevrolet Equinox
2) 2012 GMC Terrain
3) 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan

Breakdown of the top 3 SUVs of 2012

#1 2012 Chevrolet Equinox

Overall: 8.8

Safety: 7.6
Performance: 8.9
Exterior: 9.0
Interior: 9.4

Pros: Superior quiet ride, strong versatility, sliding back seats, spacious back seats
Cons: Expected driving experience, no 3rd row seats, limited storage space

The 2012 Chevy Equinox came in at #1 out of 20 for most affordable compact SUVs. This SUV is a great car for those of you looking for a family car. It has great fuel economy and tons of passenger legroom. It doesn’t have the most horsepower or sportiest engine, though based on other specs such as MPG, comfort, price, simple design, and safety, the Equinox still took gold in this years us news top SUVs of 2012.

#2 2012 GMC Terrain

Overall: 8.7

Safety: 8.0
Performance: 7.5
Exterior: 8.9
Interior: 9.4

Pros: SUV leading MPG, rearview camera across all trims, strong versatility, sliding back seats, quality and quiet interior
Cons: Large exterior frames inhibits rearview, expensive

With one of the largest turnoff being its high price, the Terrain certainly has many advantages that have pushed it to the top of the rankings. Some of the benefits include its great exterior design, review camera, passenger space, cargo space, and several other features. And like the Equinox, the Terrain is a great choice for those of you looking for a fun and useful family car.

#3 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan

Overall: 8.7

Safety: 8.5
Performance: 7.6
Exterior: 8.5
Interior: 9.5

Pros: Sporty driving, turbo enhanced engine, quality interior, comfortable seating, dashboard and controls
Cons: Limited cargo space, poor MPG, needs high-grade gas

The leading reasons the Tiguan shared the 2nd place overall rating is due to its great interior and engine. Though being slightly more expensive than many of its competitors, you certainly get what you pay for. It also took one of the highest ratings in safety, which has become a key buying aspect for many shoppers. The main drawback to this car is its lack of cargo space.

Other Notable Cars

#4 2012 Honda CRV
#5 2012 RAV4
#6 2012 Hyundai Tucson
#7 2012 Kia Sportage
#8 2012 Subaru Forester
#9 2012 Mazda CX-7
#10 2012 Suzuki Grand Vitara

When looking to see what other people say about the 2012 top SUVs, make sure you keep in mind what aspects of a car you need. It’s going to be you car for the next few years so make sure you buy something you will be happy with!

The reasons seem so obvious why a person would want to purchase an SUV. They are by far the most versatile vehicles available, they have tons on cargo space, additional seating, elevated driving, strong towing capabilities, and don’t drive like a truck. Additionally, they have the ability to come in AWD or 4WD to give you the added traction you need in wet or snowy conditions. Listed below are several of my best SUV advice to keep in mind when choosing your SUV.

SUV Engine: It’s most common for SUVs to come with a six-cylinder engine as it gives you enough power as well as MPG. It is possible to get 4 and 8 cylinders but you will be giving up certain aspects of the SUV. For instance, the 8 cylinders will hurt you at the pump while 4 cylinders may not be able to tow the trailer up the hill. Finally, if you are really fuel conscious you can also get the SUV in manual.

SUV Size: You will have the ability to pick and choose from several sizes that may range in price. Think about your needs. Do you need a lot of cargo space? Is legroom a requirement? Do you want better gas mileage from a smaller SUV? Or do you need more towing capacity, thus less MPG? Remember to think about these and other questions before you begin the search process.

SUV Safety: Nowadays nearly all SUVs come stocked with front air bags for the driver and passenger, seat belts, child seat attachments in the back, and more. You can often include side air bags for an additional charge and head protection equipment. ABS brakes are typically standard as well as electronic stability control. You will also notice many other features to improve safety such as tires, monitoring systems, lights, etc.

SUV Drive: You can often choose the SUV in AWD, 4WD, or RWD. All 4 wheels will be getting power in either the AWD or the 4WD. You will more often see RWD in the more truck oriented SUVs that are almost 100% on pavement without snow or ice. 4WD will give you the option to use lower gears to handle the more difficult terrain. AWD can handle most weather conditions comfortably such as snow, ice, and sand, but is not the most optimal for off road terrain.

If you are in the market today for a new SUV, make sure to check out all the brands with my best SUV advice in mind. Most offer a variety of SUVs with a handful of options. If you want a vehicle that can do it all, then look no further than an SUV.