Mercedes-Benz M-Class
$39,750 - $48,500
Midsize Luxury SUV: The second-generation M-Class represents a significant modernization for Mercedes-Benz's midsize SUV, which had grown a bit dated since its 1998 debut. Sleek and well proportioned, the new M-Class is powered by either a V-6 or V-8 engine. The sole transmission is a seven-speed-automatic unit that's shifted into gear via a turn-signal-style stalk on the steering column and includes buttons on the back of the steering wheel for driver control of shifts. The M-Class' maximum seating capacity is five; three-pointed star fans in need of a seven-person SUV will have to wait until mid-2006 when the new 2007 GL-Class hits dealerships.
Dodge Durango
Dodge's full-size sport utility vehicle was substantially redesigned for 2004. Basic Durango styling cues continued, but the current model is 7 inches longer and more than 3 inches taller than its predecessor.A V-6 and two Magnum V-8 engines are offered, topped by the famed 5.7-liter Hemi. The Hemi V-8 now features a Multi-Displacement System that suspends half the cylinders when they're not needed, which Dodge says improves gas mileage by up to 20 percent.For 2006, a new Electronic Stability Program and roll-sensing side curtain-type airbags are available. A power rear liftgate is now standard on the Limited. A three-passenger third-row seat can replace the optional two-place bench, and a remote starter is available. ExteriorDodge promotes the Durango's "broad-shouldered presence," starting with a familiar crosshair grille. Single headlight covers conceal dual lights. The SUV's silhouette features short front and rear overhangs, a dramatically sloped windshield and what Dodge calls "powerful" wheel arches. "Satin silver" tubular side steps go on the Adventurer. Standard 17-inch tires (18-inchers on the Limited) are mounted on aluminum or chrome wheels. InteriorDurangos can hold up to eight occupants when equipped with three rows of seats. A five-passenger configuration is also offered. Cargo volume behind the third row is 19 cubic feet; that space grows to 102.4 cubic feet when both rear seats are folded down. Second-row occupants get reclining seats, and an optional DVD entertainment system is available. Reversible slush mats are included in the Adventurer model, which has a rubberized washable cargo liner. 
Lexus RX 400h
$44,660 - $46,060
Luxury Hybrid SUV: With the launch of the RX 400h, Lexus brings the wonders of the gasoline/electric hybrid powertrain to luxury SUV buyers. Unlike the Prius hybrid passenger car marketed by Lexus' parent, Toyota, the RX 400h is not solely designed to deliver frugal fuel economy estimates. The combination of a 3.3-liter V-6 engine and a high-torque electric motor/generator driving the front wheels (and in all-wheel-drive models, another electric motor/generator for the rear wheels) results in a claimed zero-to-60-mph acceleration time of 7.3 seconds for the all-wheel-drive model. Available luxury accoutrements include a navigation system with a rearview camera, rear-seat DVD entertainment and a Mark Levinson stereo.
Subaru B9 Tribeca
$30,695 - $33,895
Midsize SUV: Subaru has dallied on the fringes of the SUV segment for a number of years with its Outback and Forester models. For 2006, the automaker takes a bigger step into the fray with its B9 Tribeca. Although it's based on the Legacy platform, the B9 Tribeca has significantly different styling and wears Subaru's new corporate grille design. Seating for five is standard, but the B9 Tribeca can be equipped with a small third-row seat that ups occupant capacity to seven. The standard engine is a 250-hp horizontally opposed six-cylinder that drives a five-speed-automatic transmission. .
