The history of SUVs began as early as the automobile itself, built as a vehicle to move people and cargo simultaneously. Short diversions to station wagons and minivans peppered the legacy of the SUV in the '70s and appear to be making a resurgence in the new millennium.
The
New Minivan
Doesn't sound
appealing does it? That's probably why so many recent rides have taken on the nameplate
of SUV. The line between SUV and minivan (and even the car) has clearly - well
- been blurred. Witness the beginning of the new era. Automakers have gone as far
as adding a classification called "mid-sized" SUV. What's next?
... The "compact" SUV? Oh, wait... they're here! Some of these
new "SUVs" resemble the 5-door hatchback of yesteryear.
Who
Am I to Judge
If Detroit, Asia and Europe have done their collective homework, consumers will
find something here for everyone's liking. Begin your tour of the SUV 2003 model
year here:
- Compact SUVs
Car-like, but don't be fooled, some of these are built to be tough. - Mid-size SUVs
For those of us who refuse to drive a minivan. A hybrid ride built to appeal to the urban road enthusiasts. - Full-size
SUVs
The traditional people/cargo hauling machine built to scare our environmentalist neighbors.