This guide is a compiled list of the top-performing 2008-model year small SUVs in J.D. Power and Associates’ key automotive research studies. The studies include the 2007 Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS), the 2007 Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study, and the 2007 Initial Quality Study (IQS). All models are listed alphabetically by manufacturer.
Honda CR-V: New for 2007, the compact 5-passenger CR-V ranked at the top of its segment in the 2007 IQS, which measures new-vehicle quality at 90 days, and in the 2007 APEAL study, which measures owner delight with the design, content, layout, and performance of their vehicles. In the 2007 VDS, which measures problems experienced by original owners of three-year-old vehicles, the Honda CR-V ranked among the top three models in its segment. When crash-tested by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), it earned a “Top Safety Pick” rating. In 2008 testing, the EPA rated the 2WD Honda CR-V’s fuel economy with an automatic transmission at 20 mpg city/27 mpg highway. Honda has added new dual-zone climate control and an 8-way power driver’s seat, and made premium audio standard on all 2008 CR-V models.
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Honda Element: Honda’s stylishly boxy SUV, the Element, first appeared as a 2003 model. It offered high utility, and styling that did nothing to hide its versatile interior and cavernous cargo capabilities. In the 2007 VDS, the Honda Element ranked among the top three models in its segment. When compared to other SUVs, the Element is also frugal with fuel. The two-wheel drive Honda Element, with an automatic transmission, is rated at 20 mpg city/25 mpg highway by the EPA. The Element received a makeover in 2007, including a new interior, updated exterior styling, more engine power, and enhanced safety features. The 2008 Honda Element is roughly unchanged except for a new paint color on the Element SC model.
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Hyundai Tucson: The smallest SUV in Hyundai’s lineup, the Tucson was first launched in 2005. Utilizing the same mechanicals as the Kia Sportage, the 5-passenger Tucson offers a choice of 4- or 6-cylinder power, and either front- or all-wheel-drive (FWD or AWD) powertrains. In the 2007 IQS, the Hyundai Tucson ranked among the top three models in its segment. The FWD Hyundai Tucson, with the 4-cylinder engine and an automatic transmission, is rated at 20 mpg city/25 mpg highway by the EPA. For 2008, Hyundai added standard active front head restraints, standard XM satellite radio, an auxiliary jack input, and a 6-disc CD changer standard on the Limited model.
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Mazda CX-7: This sporty Crossover Utility Vehicle (CUV) first rolled into showrooms as a 2007 model. With seating for 5, and a strong turbocharged powerplant, the stylish CX-7 meets the needs of consumers who are looking for something that is fun to drive and handles well, but require more utility than can be found in a typical sport sedan. In the 2007 APEAL study, the CX-7 ranked among the top three models in its segment. For 2008, Mazda is recommending premium fuel, and offering a standard roadside-assistance program. During EPA testing, the 2008 Mazda CX-7, when equipped with an automatic transmission, earned fuel-economy ratings of 17 mpg city/23 mpg highway.
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Nissan Xterra: The Nissan Xterra has a reputation as a rugged, go-anywhere SUV for consumers with active lifestyles. The second-generation model, which made its debut for the 2005 model year, significantly refined the Xterra’s ride and powertrain while adding new safety and technology features. In the 2007 IQS, the Nissan Xterra ranked among the top three models in its segment. The Xterra is available with a standard 6-cylinder engine, with rear-wheel drive (RWD) or 4WD. The standard RWD Xterra, when equipped with an automatic transmission, earned 2008 EPA fuel-economy ratings of 15 mpg city/20 mpg highway. In 2008, Nissan added more standard equipment to the X Grade trim level, a Technology package, and a new interior and exterior color.
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Toyota FJ Cruiser: All new in 2007, Toyota’s FJ Cruiser is a retro-themed throwback to the Japanese automaker’s famous off-road FJ40 from the 1960s. The modern incarnation sports 2 doors and seating for 5, on a durable body-on-frame platform. With a choice of 2WD or 4WD (with a low-range transfer case), the FJ Cruiser is built to take a serious trail. In 2WD trim with an automatic transmission, the EPA rated the fuel economy at 16 mpg city/20 mpg highway. In the 2007 APEAL study, the Toyota FJ achieved a top-three ranking in segment. Toyota added several safety components on the FJ Cruiser for 2008. Two-row side air curtains and front-seat side air bags are now standard. In addition, a tire-pressure-monitoring system is now standard across the lineup. An Off-Road package, with upgraded shocks and tires, is also available.
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Toyota RAV4: The first RAV4 models rolled into showrooms in 1994, joining the “cute ute” segment that included the early Honda CR-V. Over the past several generations, the RAV4 has grown in size, offering added refinement and creature comforts while trying not to intrude on the Toyota Highlander’s customer. The current model, redesigned for the 2006 model year, is available with a 6-cylinder powerplant and seating for up to 7. In the 2007 VDS, owners reported a very low number of problems with their 3-year-old vehicles, pushing the Toyota RAV4 to a top ranking in its segment. The 2008 model year brings a new finish on the 18-inch sport wheels, a standard engine immobilizer on the Limited models (optional on the Base and Sport), and a new exterior color.
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