Lexus GX

All-wheel drive and three rows of seats are standard. Handling feels ponderous in corners, even at moderate speeds. Even though the GX has a standard third-row seat, it's way too cramped. Access is awkward, as is opening the side-swinging rear door in tight spaces. The subscription-based Lexus Enform Remote app performs unlock/lock, remote start and trace functions, along with a tracking service. You can get an alert sent to your smartphone if the vehicle exceeds a preset speed or mileage limit to help you keep an eye on a teenage driver. We'd get a GX 460 Premium with the optional blind spot monitoring system and heated wood-and-leather steering wheel. It's the best deal in the lineup.

A body-on-frame design with a live rear axle, the GX has three rows of seats and can accommodate eight. However, the third-row seat is small and consumes cargo space when folded, while reducing visibility. Interior fit and finish are impressive. Ride quality is comfortable and quiet, but uneven pavement can cause side-to-side movement and cornering is less than agile. Full-time 4WD with low range gearing, a hill-descent feature and a system that prevents roll-back on steep ascents make it remarkably competent off-road. 2005 brought a horsepower boost.