16 Best SUVs and Crossovers for Active Families From JD Powers

Westlake Village, CA June 8, 2013; Parents know that few vehicles beat a crossover or an SUV for serving families that are constantly on the go. Whether shuttling kids to activities, making trips to the big-box store, or taking that epic cross-country summer trip, a roomy vehicle like a crossover or an SUV makes perfect sense for modern families. And because most of them offer optional all-wheel or 4-wheel drive, a crossover or SUV is even more appealing in areas of the country that regularly experience inclement weather.

The question is: Which one is best?

Using the most recent J.D. Power data, we've rounded up a selection of new and used models that have received awards for quality, dependability, and overall vehicle appeal. In the first list you'll find the new crossovers and SUVs that performed well in the J.D. Power Initial Quality and APEAL (Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout) studies, grouped by base price.

CUV’s Under $40,000

Buick Enclave
Ford Flex
Honda CR-V
Infiniti EX35
Mini Countryman

SUV’s Over $40,000

Cadillac Escalade
Ford Expedition
Infiniti QX56
Land Rover Range Rover Evoque
Lexus RX
Porsche Cayenne

Because car shoppers often prefer to explore options on the used-vehicle market, the next list names those crossovers and SUVs that received awards in the most recent J.D. Power Vehicle Dependability Study, displayed in alphabetical order.

2010 Acura RDX
2010 Chevrolet Tahoe
2010 Honda Accord Crosstour
2010 Lexus RX
2010 Toyota RAV4