SUV Question

[Dreamcast18]

We're looking @ getting a SUV for the ski trips. Key critiria:
- storage
- roof rack
- 4WD
- car-like handling
- 3rd row seating
- allows for 4 pax and 2 dogs

We've narrowed it down to:

1. 2006 Acura MDX w/Navi
http://www.prowltalk.com/ppost/data/2/01mdx_2.jpg

2. 2006 Toyota RAV4 V6 4WD Limited
http://www.prowltalk.com/ppost/data/2/toyota-rav4-1.jpg
http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/Drives/FullTests/articleId=108153

Of course if $$ is not object, the MDX is the way to go..but both are different in a sense that they cater to 2 different markets but suits all our needs at reasonable price.


Might also consider a used VehiCross 2001: (like/hate the looks)
http://www.prowltalk.com/ppost/data/2/vehicross1.jpg

http://www.motortrend.com/roadtests/suv/112_9905_suvs_isuzu/

What's the opinion of the fine folks here?

[Bcoffman Gray Ghost]

I always liked the styling of the Vehi-Cross. Guy near here had a 2001 with 15,000 miles. Don't remember now what he got for it. Sold it earlier the last fall. Kinda wish now I had tried to buy it. Oh well!!!

[pumpkin]

Mercedes ML55, is nice.

[DavidN]

If we are voting on the two i would have to go with:

2. 2006 Toyota RAV4 V6 4WD Limited

i like the new Ford Explorer....

[Dreamcast18]

Pumpkin is obviously a loyal Mercedes fan. We actually took the ML on the track...it was fast and rock solid. However, no 3rd row sitting and abit pricey when loaded (the R-class is too minivan like..kinda like the Pacifica)

I like the Vehicross though, but space is a negative on that one..and it seems most people do no like how it looks.

For a daily beater and for ski trips, the Rav4 seems like the most practical/econimical choice (will also re-direct funds to the other toy car). They won't get the V6 AWD till Feb/Mar in LA (they're sending those to those snow covered East Coast folks). So might wait till then before making a decision.

another option that we might consider is the Mazda/Ford CX-7/9. Looks good. David: any idea if Ford will release a sister version?

Thanks for the feedback! U guys rock!

[Dreamcast18]

These are reasons why I want a Vehicross:

http://www.vehicross.info/modules/Downloads/userfile.php?id=2

http://www.yefim.com/snow/vx_snow.wmv