Quite frankly, we’re glad that large, traditional truck-based SUVs are no longer the go-to vehicles for style-conscious families who simply want a high seating position and greater cargo versatility. For consumers seeking those attributes, a plethora of car-based crossovers provide superior drivability, manageable size and more fuel-efficient powerplants.
If you happen to be a driver who still needs a rugged, body-on-frame sport-ute with low-range gearing for treacherous off-road excursions, massive cargo space and brawny engines that have the ability to tow heavy loads, well, there are plenty of excellent choices in that class as well. All of these vehicles either come standard, or may be equipped with, four- or all-wheel drive for enhanced traction.
About Vehix Buying Guide and JDPower.com Ratings
Vehix 2010 SUV Buying Guides features ratings by JDPower.com. Learn more about the criteria and ratings.
There are ten vehicles highlighted in the 2010 SUV Buying Guide. All vehicles are listed in alphabetical order.
Ford may have taken its sweet time tackling the midsize crossover SUV category, but when the Edge finally debuted in 2007, people took notice. Combining five-passenger capacity, a strong V-6 engine, and a comprehensive list of cool features like the Sync communications system, Ford created a stylish package that was impossible to ignore. It is now four years old, but the 2010 Ford Edge (view photos) (available in SE, SEL, Limited, and Sport trim levels) has received continual minor upgrades over the years, and is thus still a contender in the fiercely competitive crossover category. Cargo capacity with the rear seats in use is 32 cubic feet; fold them to reveal 69 cubes. That’s not terribly impressive, but interesting options like the expansive Vista Roof helps endear the Edge to its drivers.
For 2010, all versions have improved fuel economy ratings from the standard 3.5-liter, 265-horsepower V6. Plus a new navigation system is available that includes six free months of Sirius Travel Link service. There’s also a new options package available in the Edge Limited trim level with upgraded leather and aluminum accents that raise the zoom quotient. The Edge makes a compelling package, but be sure to check out its appealing stablemate, the Ford Flex, when shopping in this category.
- No. 1-ranked Midsize Multi-Activity Vehicle in the J.D. Power and Associates 2009 Initial Quality Study (IQS)
- 17 city/24 fuel economy range
- MSRP: $26,920 - $35,770
Research the 2010 Ford Edge
View the 2010 Ford lineup