First, it's important to think about how you are going to use your new SUV. Do you just need extra space for groceries and bags from trips to the mall, or do you need a 7 passenger SUV to transport your whole family to ballparks and the zoo? Whatever your needs may be, we have some recommendations for your situation to make sure you make the decision on the best SUV 2012 that is possible.
The Best SUV 2012 List
Our first recommendation on the list is the 2012 Range Rover from the Land Rover division of Tata Motors. Land Rover is the second-oldest SUV brand on the market, and with their 2012 Range Rover they continue to shine. This edition replaces their old Jaguar powered ones and comes with a M62 V8 automatic engine supplied by BMW.
If you need to pull some heavy weight, the 2012 Dodge Durango is our choice for its muscle and size. It is built with Dodge's truck chassis to provide the Durango strong towing power. Despite the size of this vehicle and the power of its signature Hemi engine, the Durango team has improved on its design by adding better looking headlights and a comfortable interior capable of hauling seven to eight passengers.
Next up is the 2012 Mercedes M-Class SUV, which has not changed very much from last year - and that is a good thing. Sales were strong for Mercedes in 2011 due to the highly capable, yet luxury styling of their M-Class. They increased MPG by making this year's model lighter while maintaining their high safety standards.
Hyundai also plays it safe this year by keeping its 2012 Hyundai Sante Fe pretty much intact from last year's model. With the addition of two more colors and some extra styling to the interior furnishings, the Santa Fe should remain as the company's best selling SUV in 2012. Their 2012 Hyundai Tuscan, however, ups the ante by aiming to be a favorite among the fuel efficiency crowd. They improved the MPG and overall efficiency of the climate control systems to make it our green SUV of choice of 2012.
And there you have it! Our picks for the very best SUV 2012 are all solid choices that allow for a range of needs to be filled. This should be a good start to you finding the SUV that will make you happy. Make sure you perform your due diligence by researching test reports, taking them out for a drive, and finding the best prices in your area.
One important thing to mention is that we have not distinguished between a hybrid SUV or regular gas guzzler. Most of the SUV brands on our list above can be customized at the dealership for whichever type of engine you prefer to buy. In the past, fuel efficiency in SUVs were more of an afterthought, but the 2012 lineup is working to change that image with state-of-the-art motors and fuel systems that can really save some money at the pump. Do yourself (and the environment) a favor and consider 2012 hybrid SUVs if your budget can afford it.