The best SUV and Small SUV

We are talking about the selection of the best "big" and used 4x4 SUV, that is to say those that fall in the ranges of manufacturers, above the compact. They measure 4.60 m minimum, and more for the most impressive. Indeed, we have already done the selection of the best urban SUV and crossovers, which can be found here. There, more luxury, and purchasing budgets and necessarily higher use, justified by the category. Do not be surprised to find premium amid the "hardcore" ...

If you're tempted by the purchase of a large 4x4 or SUV, SUV and SMALL SUV’s blogs advise you:

BMX X5

The X5 is just an institution in the category. First serious competitor to the ML, in 2000 he brought with him a fairly new concept, having the feeling of driving a sedan while one is driving a 2 ton beast ... and it works with a beautiful success the key. Admittedly presentation, finishing, equipment, character of the engines, steering precision, are quite impressive. Comfort a little less, but the "road feel" dear to the brand to the propeller is there. The first generation today is a bit dated, but ends up pretty affordable (so to speak) on occasion. Its reliability is not blameless (injection, turbo, admission, fragile BVA). The second generation of 2007 is a must. More expensive, yet it accords better comfort and sportiness. And is more reliable. If you have the budget, this is the one to focus on, version 3.0d 235/245 hp, and no need for more to enjoy the qualities of the chassis.

Hyundai Santa Fe

With the latest generation of Santa Fe, in question here, the Korean brand enters the big leagues. Everything is done to upgrade premium competitors, including price in nine, but with a much therefore standard equipment! On occasion, the prices are reasonable, and as a bonus, we have a 5 year unlimited mileage warranty from Hyundai. In terms of presentation, materials, comfort, equipment, Korean, if it is still logically worse than luxurious German barbed options, defends very well, in is amazing. The same look can appeal. Reliability is today hailed for its very good level. The only downside will supply engines in France since it boils down to one diesel unit, a 2.2 liter with 200 hp, and that's it. However, it will struggle to forget that the competition can climb much higher performance. That said, this is as good as the Volvo XC90 presented in this page...

Mercedes ML

The brand was a pioneer as regards luxury 4x4. Indeed, by launching in 1997 the first generation M-Class (or "ML"), it invests the luxury 4x4 segment, long before BMW X5 and Q7 or Audi and. But let us rather look at the second generation, launched in 2005, much more reliable because beyond all mechanical and most electronic problems which were all decked Mercedes early 2000s However this second version still had some problems before the 2008 restyling It will therefore favor a later model, if the budget allows. Or pay attention to the proper monitoring of the vehicle concession. The M-Class is certainly built for the road, and may even allow bitumen breaks out, when the optional differential lock. Livability is good, excellent comfort (suspensions, soundproofing), and the quality excellent workmanship, although some copies, assemblies can demonstrate relaxation. On occasion, prices have fallen dramatically with the arrival of the last generation, and we can do good business on property motorized model. Warning against by the gasoline budget!

Mitsubishi Pajero

It's called a "hardcore", that is to say, a model that will, by its capacity (angle, departure angle, ramp angle, short range of speeds) able to think outside the box, and more. It therefore does not point to climb the sidewalks of cities or roll on track. It is capable of crossing, exercise in which his "short" version of excel. But to transport family and luggage, this is the version 5 doors long that will be interesting. The diesel 3.2 DI-D 165 hp will be the best to help you. Its power and torque are largely sufficient to make the road and the motorway. Since the launch of the third generation in 2000 in Europe, the Pajero not be ashamed of its presentation and its finish, almost luxurious, but of course do as well as premium 4x4. But it will shadow its designated rival, the Toyota Land Cruiser, which is also part of this opportunity selection.

Nissan X-Trail

We are talking about the second generation arrived in 2007. Very resemblance to the first, with a fighter look said she made a leap forward side benefits. Despite its small size (4.63 m), the X-Trail can be considered a "large" as set in the range above the Qashqai, which is the model "compact" ... In any case, despite its dimensions contained, it offers proper interior space and boot space quite appreciable (603 liters). The latter can also take advantage of handy storage drawers. The presentation of the passenger is serious, even if not cavorting. It's not fancy like on board premium also described here, the equipment is also a bit below, but customer models that display their ability to think outside the box will be conquered, for indoors outside, we feel that the Nissan is made for adventure. Reliability is above the lot, and we particularly recommend the diesel 2.0 dCi 150 and 173 hp, robust and sober, despite good performance.

Toyota Land Cruiser

This is a reference to what the large 4x4 market. As the Mitsubishi Pajero, Land Cruiser is a fighter, which tracks, crossings and bridge crossings are not afraid. But who also knows polished show is on the road and for long trips ... In terms of reliability, it lives up to the reputation of Toyota, although some diesel injection pumps could fail. A battery side rails cracking failure can also occur in intensive track use. But in regular use, not too worried. Roominess and trunk space are good. Especially we regret, but the mass of all explains, somewhat high consumption and braking to anticipate. The versions from 2002 to 2010 are preferred. The last, most recent, is more expensive in time, and not necessarily better in overall benefits.

Volvo XC90

With XC90, Volvo wanted in 2003 released a model capable of competing with the German 4x4 BMW X5 and Audi Q7. Mixed result, but intrinsically successful. With an average size (4.80 m) to the category, it still offers the possibility to have 7 seats, two folding seats in the boot floor. Road services are very correct. The XC90 takes a little roll because of soft suspension, but holds the road well. Its petrol engines are powerful, effective but very greedy. The D5 diesel is (slightly) more sober. We must have version 185 or 200 hp, 163 hp but not too small for the weight to carry. The level of active and passive safety is high, and the very equipment provided, even if the new is obviously much better in terms of high-tech and connectivity. However, luxury is present. Reliability does not pose any particular concern from the time the vehicle was followed in the network.

The list is not exhaustive again. Other good choices: Audi Q5, Nissan Pathfinder, Mitsubishi Pajero Sport, Land Rover Range Rover Discovery…