Toyota Rav4
Cost: $23,000 to $27,000The Rav4 was redesigned for 2006, adding more room and an optional third row of seats. An optional V6 engine gives smooth performance and good power while provided just 1 mpg lower fuel economy in Consumer Reports' testing.
The Rav4 also got top marks for reliability and crash protection.
The newly redesigned Honda CR-V is another good choice, the magazine said.