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America is changing - one mile at a time. "Go Green" is the war cry of the 21st century and consumers are taking note. In years past, the SUV had been getting a bad wrap by environmentalists due to their high mileage consumption and pollution emissions. However, with the new government requirement that all 2008 compact and mid-size sport utility vehicles get at least 24 miles per gallon on the highway, the SUV has been getting more praise and less bashing. Safer than ever, the SUV is ideal for families and those who live an active lifestyle. Further an SUV can still be an environmentally sound investment, especially a hybrid model. Here is a brief look at the safest, most fuel-efficient, and affordable SUVs 2008 has to offer:

*Best Compact SUVs

Honda CR-V: starting at $20,700, the Honda CR-V features a five-star front and side-impact crash rating and is recognized by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety as a "Top Safety Pick." Their Advanced Compatibility Engineering feature was designed to absorb the impact from another car or object during any front end collision for extra peace of mind. Other safety features include seat belts with pretensioners, side curtain airbags, and front airbags. Not only is the Honda CR-V one of the safest SUVs on the road, it is recognized as an Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle. The sleek and modern design was also specially designed to make the CR-V more fuel efficient and it gets 23 miles per gallon city, and 27 highway.

Toyota RAV4: starting at $21,150 the Toyota RAV4 has a five-star crash rating. It offers safety features such as Vehicle Stability Control with Traction control and an Anti-lock Break System. Already in it's third generation, the RAV4 has had years to improve over other first generation SUVs. It gets an impressive 21 miles per gallon city and 27 highway. Available in Base, Sport, and and Limited models with either a 4-cylinder or V6. The CRV is spacious and comfortable to drive and offers a handy 3rd row backseat.

Honda Element: starting at $19,980 the Element earned a five-star front impact crash rating and features side-impact door beams, front and side curtain airbags, and a rollover sensor. Great for the outdoor enthusiast, the interior is spacious and has a foldable and removable back seat. The CR-V gets 20 miles per gallon city and 24 highway.

*Best Mid-sized SUVs

Honda Pilot: starting at $27,595 the Pilot gets a five-star front and side-impact crash rating. It was built with a rigid steel body and has side-impact

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