In theory, the SUV was a sensible choice: more room for your cargo, more ground clearance when roads are snowy or unpaved, and more traction when climbing slippery hills. It’s the trade-offs that make traditional midsize SUVs a less ideal choice: poor fuel economy, high purchase price, and difficulty maneuvering and parking.
Before the SUV came the wagon. Its basic purpose: to carry more cargo than a sedan while using similar amounts of space and natural resources. The SUV gained popularity in the ’90s because it satisfied a desire for increased room and ruggedness, and offered the all-weather security of four-wheel drive.
