According to Consumer Reports, there is an impressive lineup in sport utility vehicles this year. From the small players to the big, testers name the vehicles that make its starting lineup and the ones that fail to make the team.

Top-Rated Small SUVs

Toyota RAV4: Testers said that the redesigned Toyota RAV4 is a star in the small SUV category. Testers said that it is a little roomier than its previous version and includes a rear seat that folds down, allowing each half to be removed individually. Testers said that the new RAV4 has an engine with added horse power, handles well, braking is excellent and its crash test was above average. Its base price range is $16,528 to $18,975.

Subaru Forester S: The Subaru Forester S, is a car-based SUV. Testers said that its automatic transmission works well and found its acceleration to be "adequate." All-Wheel-Drive is standard and helpful in all weather conditions. The front seats are comfortable, but testers found the rear seating to be cramped for adults. The Forester's crash tests were above average. Its base price range is $20,295 to $22,895.

Low-Rated Small SUV

Kia Sportage EX: Consumer Reports said that the KIA Sportage EX rides "stiff and jittery," and its handling is "clumsy." Testers call the engine "crude, weak and noisy," the interior "cheap," and crash test results were "marginal." Its base price range is $15,095 to $18,975.

Top-Rated Midsized SUVs

Toyota Highlander Limited V6: The top pick in the midsized SUV category was the Toyota Highlander Limited V6. While it is based on the new Camry and similar to the Lexus, it is roomier and less expensive.

Testers said that the Highlander performs well in foul weather. Everyday handling was fine, but testers said that it can be "twitchy" in emergency situations. The ride was described as "comfortable, quiet, and pleasant." Its base price range is $23,800 to $30,795.

Acura MDX: The Acura MDX has a strong V6 engine, independent suspension and All-Wheel-Drive. Overall handling was fine, although testers call it "twitchy" in emergency maneuvers. Its 50/50-split third seat can fold flat into the floor and crash tests were described as "good." Its base price is $34,600.

Lexus RX300: Testers liked the Lexus RX300 describing it as "comfortable, quiet, smooth and responsive." Testers found the All-Wheel-Drive system to have good traction in bad weather or in light, off-road use. Stability control is standard, and crash test performance was excellent. Testers said that the only downfall is the limited cargo space. Its base price range is $33,955 to $35,705.

Low-Rated Midsize SUV

Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo 6: Testers gave low ratings to Jeep's Grand Cherokee Laredo 6. They said that the V6 engine is noisy and slow, and that the automatic transmission is rough. Testers found that the vehicle rocks from side to side on rough roads. They said the inside is cramped, and reliability has been "poor." Its base price range is $25,425 to $36,830.

Top-Rated Large SUV

Among large SUVs, testers gave top ratings to the Toyota Land Cruiser. Testers said that its routine handling is sound and off-road performance is good.

The Land Cruiser has a 50/50 forward-facing rear seat that is easy to fold, but when it is in use, it limits cargo space. It is also expensive, with a base price of $52,595.

Low-Rated Large SUV

Ford Excursion XLT: The largest SUV tested, the Ford Excursion XLT can hold up to nine people and tow up to 10,000 pounds. Testers said that its size and sluggish handling make driving a chore. Testers described the ride as "stiff and bouncy," the engine is noisy, and it gets just 10 miles per gallon. Its base price range is $32,820 to $46,905.

The BMW X5 4.4i scored higher than all other SUVs in Consumer Reports' tests. However, it was not recommended because of its below average reliability.

Copyright ©2002 Consumers Union of U.S., Inc. All rights reserved.