Downsized SUVs: we test more economical alternatives to larger sport utilities.(Product/service evaluation)

Large and luxury SUVs might be languishing on dealership lots, but smaller and car-based SUVs are continuing to sell. Those smaller vehicles are often good alternatives to the larger models; they have better fuel economy and still deliver the practicality, power, and amenities that consumers expect.

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This month, we tested three new upscale small SUVs: the Infiniti EX35, Land Rover LR2, and Volkswagen Tiguan. We also tested three midsized SUVs: the Jeep Grand Cherokee, Nissan Murano, and Volkswagen Touareg.

Of the smaller SUVs, the EX35 and the Tiguan have good handling and performance. The Land Rover LR2 performed well in our off-road tests even without low-range gearing. But in one run of our emergency avoidance maneuver, the LR2 lifted two wheels off the pavement momentarily, which earned it a poor score in our emergency handling tests.

While the EX35 and the Tiguan are new models, the LR2 is a replacement for the lackluster Land Rover Freelander. Prices ranged from $35,479 for the Tiguan to $39,425 for the EX35.

Notably, those newcomers to the category don't outscore the less expensive Toyota RAV4 V6 or the newly redesigned Subaru Forester XT.

Among midsized models, the Murano has long been one of our favorites, and the new incarnation offers an interior and ride that are more refined. While it's not as sporty as the old model, the Murano costs about $7,000 less than a comparably equipped Lexus RX350 and scores almost as well. However, neither dethrones our top-rated midsized SUV, the three-row Toyota Highlander.