Three-row lux SUVs, part 2

Mike Quincy: Honestly, none of the gigantic SUVs from the November group blew me away, although I did enjoy the Mercedes-Benz GL450 during a week's vacation in Maine. My kids especially loved the built-in DVD screens in the back of the headrests. Still, my tastes are for smaller, more fuel-efficient models, such as the Toyota Highlander Hybrid. Much has been written by CR about how hybrids may or may not make financial sense (available to ConsumerReports.org subscribers). However, that doesn't bother me. Compared to these much, MUCH larger SUVs, I'll take the Highlander's responsive V6/hybrid system, superior fuel economy, and, at nearly half the cost of the as-tested GL, the unarguably clear price advantage. Besides, a third-row seat is only occasionally used by my family, and the Highland Hybrid's rear bench folds neatly into the cargo floor. I'll go green over gargantuan any day.

Gene Petersen: Last month our audience lashed out at us for buying and testing frivolous dream sports cars that were way-out over priced and offered no practicality to the typical Consumer Reports reader. Rather than take sides on the issue, let's just say I understand the complaints registered.  Fast-forward to this month and you'll see that we tested some pricey SUVs in the $60,000 range and I fear that we are going to get another deluge of angry letters and emails. True, they sell for $30,000-$40,000 less and are immensely more practical than sports cars, but I find myself questioning, "Do I really need to dip into my kid's college fund to afford a comfortable, well performing SUV?"  Ah, the answer is in the Ratings chart (available to ConsumerReports.org subscribers). The Honda Pilot is my pick. It cost about 40-50 percent less than any of those premium large SUVs, outperforms them handily, and while it may not be as luxurious, it's certainly well equipped and hospitable inside. Plus, it holds eight passengers and would leave some money for tuition.