sfd
11-11-2013, 04:33 PM
Hello all! Haven't posted in a while but wondering if I can get some opinions on SUVs. I've run into a situation with life/work that requires me to get something a bit better in bad weather and more reliable, as well as easier to drive (automatic). Based on family needs a mid sized SUV seems to fit the bill. Wife will drive this now and then so a simple AWD system and automatic are required. I really don't want her having to guess if it is OK to switch on the part time 4high.
The trouble I am having is picking an AWD/4WD system. I'm really hung up on getting a Jeep Grand Cherokee right now. I feel that the Jeep's Active Drive II/Terrain Management system is far superior to other systems on the road including its own basic system on the GC Laredos. While the chances I need to use a full blown off road system are slim, it's not out the question to have to go run through a ft of snow during one of our Northeastern blizzards or hit some sand/mud over the summer. Not sure if anyone has any experience with the following SUVs but let me know if you have. For the next few months I'll be taking random trips to CT so it's fully possible I am on the road during rush hour during a snow storm or bad winter weather. Or need to recover my parents from their house during a snow storm that knocks power out and dumps a ft of snow where they don't get plowed.
Currently looking at the following:
2011+ Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited/Overland V6 - Personally think this is where I'm leaning due to the AWD system and features.
2011+ Ford Explorer XLT/Limited - Heard not so great thing about these in the snow. FWD biased and terrain system only manages throttle and braking. Has no power split like the basic Jeep systems or other permanent AWD systems like Subbies but will send power to the rear if it detects slipping.
2011+ Ford Edge Limited/Lincoln MKX - Same system as the Explorer without terrain selection
2014 Jeep Cherokee Limited/Trailhawk - Would get with v6 and ADII
2010+ Acura MDX - SH-AWD is a proven quality system
I'm staying in the luxury trims and trying to really stay at 30k or less on the used market with 40k or less miles. I'm finding vehicles in that range but I'm considering the 35k price range for something new as well. The wife and I eliminated some cars based on their looks (GMC Terrain) or lack of features for price (4Runner sadly...).
Am I just giving Jeep's system too much credit? Or not giving the others credit enough that they could hang? Again my biggest worry isn't just normal wet stuff or a few inches which I think anyone would handle especially with snow tires. It's a major storm or slow response to it that leaves inches of unpacked snow laying around or the weird situations of mild off roading (my family hunts and does camping a lot all over the place so the terrain can constantly vary on a trip).
I don't need a 3rd row but cargo space is important. The Audi has been a pain in the arse with its small hatch and slanted rear glass. A slightly smaller SUV like the Cherokee or Kia Sportage would probably have to get a roof basket but is acceptable I'm starting to think.
The trouble I am having is picking an AWD/4WD system. I'm really hung up on getting a Jeep Grand Cherokee right now. I feel that the Jeep's Active Drive II/Terrain Management system is far superior to other systems on the road including its own basic system on the GC Laredos. While the chances I need to use a full blown off road system are slim, it's not out the question to have to go run through a ft of snow during one of our Northeastern blizzards or hit some sand/mud over the summer. Not sure if anyone has any experience with the following SUVs but let me know if you have. For the next few months I'll be taking random trips to CT so it's fully possible I am on the road during rush hour during a snow storm or bad winter weather. Or need to recover my parents from their house during a snow storm that knocks power out and dumps a ft of snow where they don't get plowed.
Currently looking at the following:
2011+ Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited/Overland V6 - Personally think this is where I'm leaning due to the AWD system and features.
2011+ Ford Explorer XLT/Limited - Heard not so great thing about these in the snow. FWD biased and terrain system only manages throttle and braking. Has no power split like the basic Jeep systems or other permanent AWD systems like Subbies but will send power to the rear if it detects slipping.
2011+ Ford Edge Limited/Lincoln MKX - Same system as the Explorer without terrain selection
2014 Jeep Cherokee Limited/Trailhawk - Would get with v6 and ADII
2010+ Acura MDX - SH-AWD is a proven quality system
I'm staying in the luxury trims and trying to really stay at 30k or less on the used market with 40k or less miles. I'm finding vehicles in that range but I'm considering the 35k price range for something new as well. The wife and I eliminated some cars based on their looks (GMC Terrain) or lack of features for price (4Runner sadly...).
Am I just giving Jeep's system too much credit? Or not giving the others credit enough that they could hang? Again my biggest worry isn't just normal wet stuff or a few inches which I think anyone would handle especially with snow tires. It's a major storm or slow response to it that leaves inches of unpacked snow laying around or the weird situations of mild off roading (my family hunts and does camping a lot all over the place so the terrain can constantly vary on a trip).
I don't need a 3rd row but cargo space is important. The Audi has been a pain in the arse with its small hatch and slanted rear glass. A slightly smaller SUV like the Cherokee or Kia Sportage would probably have to get a roof basket but is acceptable I'm starting to think.