EARTHY "CAR"(S) OF THE WEEK: SUVs

Earthy Cars usually does not have a large selection of SUVs. However, we currently have 4 SUVs on our lot. We have them here just in time for the start of the new school season. If you are the parent of 2 or more children, especially ones that are involved in sports, an SUV may be very necessary in transporting your children (and their friends) around.

1. 2008 BMW X3_SUV Black_$23,900_75,595 mi_MPG = 16/23

Chrome via Vehix.com:

“The 2008 BMW X3 comes with a silky smooth 3.0L inline six-cylinder engine that makes 260-horsepower and 225 lb-ft or torque. The vehicle also comes with xDrive, which is the latest development in BMW's AWD technology. It uses a servomotor to adjust the multi-disc clutch that splits the torque between the front and rear wheels, and in many circumstances the X3 feels just like a rear-wheel-drive vehicle. Reduced traction causes more power to be fed to the front, and the DSC traction control can even reduce engine torque and brake individual wheels in order to conquer most any hill. A standard push-button hill descent control can maneuver the X3 down steep or slippery hills with no driver throttle or braking input.” 

“The 2008 BMW X3 is a sport utility vehicle that places much more emphasis on "sport" than "utility." In fact, there are few other vehicles in this segment that feel as nimble and track-ready as the X3, while costing less than $40,000. That doesn't mean the X3 is an SUV in name only, though. With xDrive all-wheel drive, hill descent control, and a cargo capacity of up to 71.0 cubic feet, the X3 is still able to capably fill the ute role. It's just that with its excellent inline six and great sure-footedness, you may forget that's why you bought it in the first place.”

Also check out information about the 2002 BMW X3 on AOL Autos and MSN Autos.

2. 2006 Kia Sodona_White SUV_$9,900_74555 mi_MPG = 18/25

Chrome via Vehix.com:

The Kia Sedona is all-new for 2006 and, based on the time we've spent with it, it appears to be a compelling value among minivans, offering convenience, comfort, style and performance.
The 2006 Kia Sedona was designed by studying every other minivan in the class, choosing the best features, and improving them. It uses a new high-tech V6 engine, a responsive new five-speed automatic transmission, and a sophisticated and steady suspension.
From the outside, the all-new Sedona looks classy and stylish. Inside, there's seven-passenger seating with seats that easily collapse to create a vast cargo space. Every cabin convenience known to man is either standard or available; there are storage spaces everywhere you turn, and no fewer than 14 cupholders. And the Sedona achieves five-star crash certification, all for a base price of $22,995.

Car and Driver via AOL Autos:

"The new Sedona has everything a minivan must: a solid drivetrain, enough optional electronic gadgetry to narcotize the kiddies on trips, side windows that roll down, lots of cup holders, an optional power liftgate, and standard airbags in front and all along the sides. The drivetrain is refined and powerful, the chassis is well-sorted, and there's plenty of room for plenty of stuff"

More information about the 2006 Kia Sedona on MSN Autos.

3. 2003 Saturn VUE_SUV Silver_$6,900_90,978 mi_5-speed Manual_Highway MPG = 28

Info about the 2003 Saturn VUE at AOL Autos, Vehix.com, and MSN Autos.

4. 2002 Honda CR-V_SUV Blue_$6,900_141,574 mi_Highway MPG = 26

Info about the 2002 Honda CR-V at MSN Autos, AOL Autos, and Vehix.com