2002 Ford Explorer VS. 2002 Buick Rendezvous VS. 2001 Toyota Highlander

So What's The Verdict?We hate wishy-washy conclusions as much as you do. But the fact is these handy rigs are likely to appeal to different customers, while still hitting a broadly defined sport/utility paradigm. If your requirements call for a real truck, including lots of off-roading with regular heavy-trailer towing, the rugged full-frame Explorer with much improved ride and third row is the pick. We expect it to remain the best-selling SUV on the market. If you value ride smoothness, around-town civility with max people capacity, and mega interior space with poor-weather traction, the Buick gets it done. If your needs are weighted toward a leaner five-passenger sport/utility on the small end of the midsize spectrum with light off-roading ability, the slick new Toyota Highlander's the hot setup.

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