New Models Make 2006 a Banner Year for Trucks, SUVs and Crossovers

2006 Subaru Tribeca - Short on Passenger Space but Big on Quality

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Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press

for its symmetrical all-wheel drive technology but having never previously offered a "true" sport utility, Subaru has come to market with "What an SUV Should Be!", or so its TV ad purports. While off-roaders and the makers of the many benchmark traditional and crossover SUVs the ad debunks as passé may disagree, Subaru faithful will probably buy into the vehicle's unique styling and familiar drivetrain layout. All said, the B9 Tribeca is beautifully made, light on its feet and should deliver enviable reliability. The five seats behind the front row are tighter than average, but its upscale environment should please many.

2006 Suzuki Grand Vitara - Good Enough for Compact Premium Status

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Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press

Suzuki's all-new Grand Vitara the new compact SUV class leader? It has fewfaults, and fresh new styling, a well engineered cabin featuring highquality materials, plus standard ABS, traction and stability control,as well as eight airbags, give it a knock-out punch. But to Suzukiloyalists, its stand-out off-road capability that includesoptional bull-low gearing puts it into a category of few rivals. But most willappreciate the Grand Vitara's commendable on-pavement skills, as ithandles more like a car than a 4x4 capable SUV. A standard 185-hp 2.7L V6, matedto a 5-speed manual or 4- or 5-speed automatic, allows true 3000 poundtowing power.

2006 Toyota Highlander Hybrid - Thrifty Midsize SUV Goes Like the Wind

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Photo: Toyota Canada

the previously released Lexus RX 400h, Toyota's Highlander Hybrid delivers V8-output with four-cylinder fuel economy, all for a price most would expect to pay for a traditionally powered eight-cylinder SUV. Its get-up-and-go will floor you, especially when highway passing is needed, and interior room and flexibility as good as the already well received gasoline-powered Highlander. A few styling tweaks set it apart from the regular model, while about as many interior upgrades enhance the well-equipped cabin. Rising fuel costs will promote the Highlander Hybrid better than advertising could, and no doubt Toyota will sell as many it can make.