Shop it against:

February 24, 2007

BMW X5 Prices here can run from mid-40s to more than $70,000, but if you "settle" for 265 horsepower (350 horses is the other choice), and realize you won't find a finer interior or better handling in this group, you can get away with $50,000 to $60,000.

INFINITI QX56 I have not been a fan of Infiniti SUVs, but this one is worth a look. Start with standard 320 horsepower, a price in the low-to-mid 50s, and 4 tons of tow capacity, and you have a luxurious hauler.

CHEVROLET SUBURBAN Smoother, safer, and better appointed than ever. But there's still no doubt that you are in a Suburban. For some folks, that solid sensibility is comforting. Plan to pay in the low 40s to low 50s, and 320 standard horsepower is plenty.

TOYOTA LAND CRUISER It's not the cool box of old (circa 1972), but it's still a real contender. Expensive in the mid-50s to low 60s, but it will last for many years. The only engine is a 275 horsepower V-8.