There were many great SUVs put out onto the market this year but I would not be writing this if a few of them did not stand out. There are certain standards all SUV models are held to and 2008 is no exception. Although it is still early in the year a few models already stand out as the best buys.

There are a lot of things to factor into the equation but what is mostimportant? I say these days it is fuel effieciency, so I have organized my short list with this as the main factor. With gas prices soaring to record levels it is becoming more important than ever to factor gas mileage into the equation when making a car purchase. When you are talking about an SUV, multiply those concerns by about ten.

Everyone knows that SUVs are the heaviest gas guzzlers on the road... And now all of the sudden people are paying attention to just how much the less efficient ones cost. The range of results in termsof gas efficiency varies drastically from modeltomodel,with some as low as ten miles per gallon and other as high as twenty eight. With that in mind I have created a list of the top three 2008 SUVs in terms of gas mileage:

1. The Jeep Compass (2WD). The fuel efficiency here is the best in the business at 23 miles per gallon in the city and 27 on the highway. There is however a tradeoff. Whilesleek in exterior this has to be the poorest offroad SUV on the market. One could almost wonder if the makers of this modelforgot its purpose altogether. It is excellent for hauling goods but not offroad activity.

2. The Jeep Patriot (2WD). This model boasts the same fuel efficiency as the Compass but without the offroad tradeoff. The price is a bit more expensive so you have to decide how important such features as advanced ABS (Anti Brake System),quick CVT operation and stability control are to you.

There are a few other models that are better than average but honestly these two stand head and shoulders above almostall SUVs in the market today in terms of fuel effieciency. If that is what you are looking for then you would be ebst served to give these vehicles a try first.

Lexus, Saturn, Ford, Nissan, Chevrolet, GMC and every other auto manufacturer has experimented with fuel effecient SUV models. I think the three listed above are by far the best and should be the first viewed by the discerning consumer who has energy costs at the forefront of hismind. Numbers don't lie.

It is very important to take note of whether most of your driving will be on the road or in the city/suburban streets. This should factor into your decision as many pickup trucks have much better gas mileage on the highway and if this is primarily where you will be driving you should give them greater consideration even if their city mpg average is poor.

Whatever Sports Utility Vehicle you end up getting remember that all SUVs are still highly inefficient compared to most cars these days. You would be well advised to practice personal energy conservation habits in terms of not driving excessively. Before you know it you will have spent enough money to pay for two SUVs!

Learn more about this author, Royce Radcliffe.
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