2008 Hyundai Veracruz

On a trip to Arizona, copy editor James Dryden observed that the Veracruz "sails like a boat down the freeway but doesn't wobble or feel floaty at the same time-breezy is the word that comes to mind." Plus, with its AWD system, the Veracruz "plowed right through the thick-as-meatloaf mud we came across, even after everyone warned we'd get stuck."

Adoration aside, Dryden did find some nits to pick. "My sister doesn't think this SUV is built for short people, as she couldn't adjust the seat high enough for good visibility nor the steering wheel low enough for a comfortable driving position. The placement of the power-rear-hatch button on the lower left of the dash-it's just about at knee level and twice I accidentally bumped it, prompting the rear hatch to inadvertently open."