2005 SUV of the Year Testing
Bits & Pieces Cont...
Badge Compensation?
It's no surprise that the ginormous Infiniti QX56 wears the biggest identity badge (8.0 inches wide by 4.5 tall), but the dark-horse runnerup is the Lilliputian Equinox. Its tail-plinth bowtie stretches 8.0 inches wide by 2.8 high.
Bushwhacker's
Navi
Many trails look alike, so to ensure a safe return to civilization, Jeep's nav system can store a trail of virtual breadcrumbs. Land Rover's optional nav does the same and includes topographical information.
Rack 'em up
Active-lifestyle vacationing in an SUV often forces some gear up onto the roof. Here's what to look for in a luggage rack:
• Adjustable crossbars--Grand Cherokee and Escape bars are easily secured with thumb-wheels; Equinox and QX56 (rear bar) use levers; but Pathfinder requires tools. Freestyle and LR3 lack optional crossbars.
• Tie-down points--Jeep wins with 12 loops or rings; Freestyle's smooth rails will require clever Boy Scout hitch knots.
• Capacity--Wispy Escape bars can only handle 100 pounds; 220-pound-capable Equinox rack trumps even the QX56 by 20 pounds.