2011 AutoPacific Ideal Vehicle Awards: Mid-Size SUV

AutoPacific’s 2011 Ideal Vehicle Awards (IVA) are based on 73,000 surveys completed by owners of new cars and light trucks in the United States in the first half of 2011.

Vehicles such as the Nissan Xterra and the Toyota 4Runner might resemble vehicles that were popular years ago but this segment usually offers off-road capability with tolerable on-road manners.  Many of these vehicles derive from Compact Pickup roots and also have good towing capability.

This year's AutoPacific IVA Mid-Size SUV winner is the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee.

Read on to see the entire list of category candidates and how they scored.

*NOTE: Results for 2010 Model Year Vehicles are Included in the 2011 Model Year Research Because of Availability. Scores Are Shown Where Sample Sizes Allow

#1 Mid-Size SUV: 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee

Rank: #1

Score: 1207

The all new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee is the top ranked Premium Mid-Size SUV in AutoPacific’s 2011 Ideal Vehicle Research.  As the class winner, its owners identify few things they would want changed, but there are a few.  About 30% would like better visibility and more infotainment technology.  About 25% want the Grand Cherokee to be easier to get into and out of.  About 25% want it to have more power and more cargo room as well.  Grand Cherokee owners most like its ride, seat comfort, exterior size and the styling of the new vehicle.  Grand Cherokee handily outpoints the second place Nissan Xterra.

#2 Mid-Size SUV: 2011 Nissan Xterra

Rank: #2

Score: 1192

When it comes to embodying the outdoor life, few SUVs do it better than the 2011 Nissan Xterra which comes with features such as a sturdy roof rack and steps built into the rear bumper. Some of the Xterra’s more innovative features include the rubberized, easy-to-clean cargo area and the first-aid kit built into the liftgate.

#3 Mid-Size SUV: 2011 Dodge Nitro

Rank: #3

Score: 1142

One of the newest models in this segment, the 2011 Dodge Nitro is as rugged as its sister car, the Jeep Liberty, but it adds a more dynamic styling to match the sporty Dodge brand. Highlights of the Nitro include standard 20-inch wheel on all models as well as a more powerful V-6 engine used in the Detonator and Shock trim levels.

#4 Mid-Size SUV: 2011 Toyota 4Runner

Rank: #4

Score: 1132

The 2011 Toyota 4Runner offers plenty of size with available three-row seating, but it is probably best known for its excellent off-road abilities. For those looking to take their 4Runner on some of the tougher off road trails, the rugged 4Runner Trail trim level delivers excellent driver control in loose conditions thanks to the Crawl Control feature of the standard Multi-Terrain Select system.

#5 Mid-Size SUV: 2011 Nissan Pathfinder

Rank: #4

Score: 1127

The 2011 Nissan Pathfinder offers plenty of size with available three-row seating, but it is probably best known for its excellent off-road abilities. For those looking to take their 4Runner on some of the tougher off road trails, the rugged 4Runner Trail trim level delivers excellent driver control in loose conditions thanks to the Crawl Control feature of the standard Multi-Terrain Select system.

#6 Mid-Size SUV: 2011 Jeep Liberty

Rank: #6

Score: 1094

It’s hard to look at the 2011 Jeep Liberty and not see the original XJ Cherokee, but in addition to its rugged off-road prowess, the Liberty also excels as a great on-road vehicle. One of the most unique elements of the Liberty is the available Sky Slider roof that delivers a Wrangler-like, open-air atmosphere.

#7 Mid-Size SUV: Toyota FJ Cruiser (2010)

Rank: #7

Score: 1093

From its round headlights to its two-tone exterior paint job, the 2010 Toyota FJ Cruiser is instantly recognizable. Intended to look like the classic FJ trucks, the FJ Cruiser is a rugged off-road SUV with its platform shared with the capable 4Runner and a unique design that includes standard 32-inch tires and up to 9.6 inches of ground clearance.

#8 Mid-Size SUV: 2011 Jeep Wrangler

Rank: #8

Score: 1091

As the quintessential SUV, the 2011 Jeep Wrangler is still one of the best off-road vehicles on the market while continuing to provide the added enjoyment of top-down, doors-off driving. Though the Wrangler shares many of its styling cues with the original CJ off-roader, the current model is one of the largest ever produced and offers the convenience of four doors and five-passenger seating.