The Lexus LX 450 is an upgraded, more luxurious version of the proven Toyota Land Cruiser. The engine is a large, 4.5-liter DOHC inline-six. Coupled with a smooth-shifting four-speed automatic, the six is extra quiet and exceptionally gutsy. Inside, the gentry are coddled with leather seats, wood trim, automatic climate control, and a premium sound system. Its premium price is reflective of its exceptional ability to pamper-on or off pavement.
The Mercury Mountaineer is that division's version of a well-equipped, V-8-engined, four-door Ford Explorer. Although two-wheel drive is standard, Mercury offers a full-time all-wheel-drive system for the weather-challenged buyer. The standard 5.0-liter/211-horsepower pushrod V-8 provides instant highway-passing power or effortless trailer-moving muscle. Standard goodies include: power windows, mirrors, and locks; privacy glass; a rear wiper/washer; a limited-slip rear axle; and a trailer-tow package.
The all-new, affordable Mitsubishi Montero Sport is a five-passenger, four-door sport/utility that rolls on a 107.3-inch wheelbase, just like the current Montero LS and SR. Although it shares its name and wheelbase with Mitsu's existing SUV, the Montero Sport is lower, lighter, and shorter than the LS or SR. Smaller overall and more maneuverable, the Montero Sport is easier to handle when treading lightly on trails or cruising for bargains in mall parking lots. Grunt comes from a 2.4-liter four-cylinder or a 24-valve 3.3-liter V-6.
The third-generation Toyota 4Runner offers several all-new features: chassis, two engines, interior, and exterior, along with enhanced safety equipment. Both engines are sophisticated, freer-breathing double-overhead camshaft designs. The base powerplant is a 2.7-liter/150-horsepower four. The premium engine is a slightly larger, smoother 3.4-liter/183-horsepower V-6. Well known for its build quality and buyer satisfaction, the 4Runner maintains its neat size and clever design, making it a top pick for discriminating off-roaders.
Toyota's RAV4 was among the first of the trail-capable designs to combine friendly small-car elements with a balance of features from light off-road vehicles. The RAV4 has a clever unibody design with a nimble four-wheel independent suspension and full-time four-wheel drive for extreme weather conditions. A five-speed manual or four-speed automatic can be mated with the 2.0-liter/120-horsepower engine.