Where to Find Reliable SUV Ratings

Finding reliable information on SUV ratings is easy with the Internet. There are many websites out there that write reviews on various SUV's. Below are some of the sites you should look at first in order to see if your SUV is in fact, a good one.

CarsDirect
You are already on a site that has reliable information when it comes to SUVs. There are many articles about specific cars, as well as comparisons between different SUV models. The SUV buying guide page can be found here. From there you can check out types of SUVs (i.e. compact, luxury) or go to specific model pages (i.e. Infiniti QX56, Acura MDX). You can find online reviews, pictures, ratings, and more on each specific page.

US News & World Report
US News & World Report carries ratings of all types of vehicles, including SUVs. They have ratings for each type of SUV: compact, midsize, large, affordable, luxury, etc. They have ranked them from top to bottom, and you can view the rankings for each type. On each car specific page, you will see a write up about the car, including quotes from various sources. These include comparisons to other SUVs in the same class, as well as recommendations. You can then select some of the tabs that say: price, performance, safety, exterior, interior, etc. For example, on the safety tab, you will find safety ratings for that car done by various researchers such as the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

Understanding SUV Ratings

It is relatively easy to understand and compare SUV ratings set by the automotive industry. This way the average consumer can choose the right SUV according to the intended use. Crossover and sport activity vehicles have opened up a new niche with respect to the SUV market.

SUV Ratings
SUV ratings could be based on a lot of factors such as power, handling, comfort, off road ability, fuel economy and crash safety ratings. All of these factors should be taken into consideration when buying an SUV. In a harsh economy it's best to pay attention to fuel economy and crash safety.

Fuel Economy
Modern SUVs are equipped with robust chassis assemblies that enable them to properly carry a bigger and wider body. With this increased vehicle weight they need a large engine for propulsion. That means the typical SUV does not get very good MPG. Look to alternative fuel sources to get the best fuel economy. Diesel is always a good alternative for those who don't want to sacrifice power and space in an SUV. Consumers will get the best of both worlds in a diesel and will have the space, luxury and comfort of a full size SUV with the MPG rating of a small crossover.

Crash Safety
Overall safety ratings should be considered when buying an SUV. The robust frame and heavy chassis of an SUV are designed to make things safer in the event of a collision, but look for an SUV with a perfect or high score in the U.S. Crash Safety Standards, as mandated by the government.

An SUV is ideal for large families or hauling a considerable amount of cargo. Take time to study and compare SUV ratings to properly determine the SUV that is right for you.