Video: How to choose the best SUV for you

SUVs have become the most popular vehicle category, fueled by all-weather traction, versatility, and the promise of adventure. Given the diversity of sizes, prices, and capabilities, it can be difficult to choose the one that best fits your lifestyle, driving preferences, and budget. To help narrow down your list, ConsumerReports.org has a new car selector that can be used to sort and filter vehicles by the factors that matter most to you. (See our SUV buying advice, ratings, and recommendations.)

Many drivers are drawn to SUVs for their high driving position, towing capacity, and the ability of some to carry seven or eight people. With an all-wheel-drive or four-wheel-drive system, they also provide extra traction in slippery conditions and can tackle some moderate off-road terrain. But SUVs as a class are not as nimble as passenger cars and their high center of gravity can make them prone to roll over more easily than cars do in emergency situations.

SUVs are available in a wide range of sizes and prices. Small SUVs are the least expensive. Even though they are compact outside, they often have enough room for a family inside. They also offer the best fuel economy. Midsized models typically provide more  interior space and engine power, but at the expense of fuel economy and a higher purchase price. Larger models provide more room and towing capacity, but get poor gas mileage and are less maneuverable. 

When looking for an SUV consider the type of driving you do, the weather conditions, how much power and cargo capacity you need, and how many people you will transport. A real risk with SUV shopping is over-buying. Being realistic about your regular needs may point you toward a model that is more affordable to purchase and operate than buying more on impulse. Many SUVs also come in two-wheel-drive versions which could be ideal for warm climate states where all-wheel-drive may not be necessary. According to the EPA, two-wheel-drive versions tend to get better fuel economy by one to two mpg. 

Determining the SUV type (small, compact sporty, midsized, and large SUV) will help narrow the field and is a useful step towards creating a short list of models to research. Further, our SUV section highlights the models from several categories that have performed best in our tests and stand out for safety and reliability.

The embedded SUV buying advice video provides more advice and tips on choosing the right SUV for your needs.

For Ratings and recommendations on SUV models, see our SUV buying guide.

— Liza Barth