MotorWeek Picks Best Family-Friendly SUV for under $29,000

COMPARE: SUV Specs, Prices and Reviews
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OWINGS MILLS, Md. February 2, 2011; They’re a popular and trendy alternative to the traditional family sedan or minivan, so what’s the best SUV for under $29,000? To answer that question, MotorWeek teamed up with Cars.com and USA TODAY, as well as actor Joey Lawrence and his family, for the $29K SUV Shootout. The results will be featured on MotorWeek episode 3022, which begins airing on PBS stations Saturday, February 5, 2011 (check local listings).

Nine automakers provided vehicles for under $29,000 before destination charges, which limited the field of contenders to mostly compact utilities. Eight of the nine were front-wheel drive, while the Subuaru Forester was all-wheel drive. The Dodge Journey was the lone V6 competitor. Rounding out the list of contenders: the Kia Sportage, Nissan Rogue, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Chevrolet Equinox, Honda CR-V and Hyundai Tucson.

The SUVs were evaluated on factors mattering most to families -- comfort, safety and styling. The automotive journalists and the Lawrence family took a close look at car seat latch accessibility, roominess of the cargo bay, cup holder and storage bin placement, and of course entertainment system options. Handling and real world drivability were tested on freeways and suburban streets around the Los Angeles area.

The Chevrolet Equinox was the winner, edging out its competitors with an ultra impressive interior. “The Chevrolet Equinox has plenty of family-friendly features, as well as a high quality interior and lots of high tech goodies,” said MotorWeek host John Davis. “It’s easy to see why the Equinox is the new benchmark in this class.”

Actor Joey Lawrence called the fit and finish remarkable, “It almost feels like you’ve upgraded to a whole other segment. For under 30 grand, you just can’t beat that.”

For the full comparison, and to find out which contenders made it to the final four, tune in to MotorWeek episode 3022, or check out the review online at motorweek.org.

Now in its 30th season, MotorWeek is one of the nation’s leading sources for the latest car and truck reviews, do-it-yourself car care tips and auto industry news. The award-winning series airs on PBS, HD Theater and V-me, and is produced by Maryland Public Television. Video Road Tests are available on Cars.com and YouTube.