CarReview's Best Car Choices of 2008

Best Mid-size Crossover/SUV: GMC Acadia and Acura MDX

Built on GM’s advanced lambda platform, the Acadia is available in FWD or AWD and draws its power from a refined twin-cam variable timing V6 6-speed drivetrain. The GMC Acadia, with its sleek styling, clever interior packaging and engaging road manners, has set a whole new standard among sport utility vehicles. And the Acadia offers every amusement a modern family could demand, for prices that are easy on the pocket book.

The 2008 Acura MDX is a luxurious and performance-minded family vehicle. The MDX’s best ranking is based on its excellent combination of spaciousness, stellar safety and smooth handling. The old 3.5-liter V6 has been replaced by a new 3.7-liter V6, the largest and most powerful ever in an Acura. Even with its weight – 4,500 pounds being light for an SUV – the MDX has plenty of power. As in 300 horsepower (at 6000 rpm), with a torque peak of 275 lb-ft at 5000 rpm. Inside, the MDX has all of the positive attributes of a crossover – space, versatility, and comfort, plus its own style. The new MDX uses Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure and design. ACE distributes frontal collision forces in a way to preserve the integrity of the passenger cabin. The MDX offers one of the best combinations of a high-tech interior, excellent safety and smooth handling in its class.

Best Truck: Chevrolet Silverado and Toyota Tundra

The Silverado 1500 delivers one of the best combinations of practical performance, responsive handling and rugged exterior styling in its class. Its wide range of trims, cab and bed lengths offers something for everyone. The Silverado comes in regular, extended and Crew Cab body styles and offers short, standard and long cargo box lengths; there are eight powertrain combinations, many suspension packages and four trim levels. Of course there’s also rear- or four-wheel drive, as well as heavy-duty versions. In addition to added front-seat legroom, headroom and hip room, Chevy made the interiors seem roomier by moving the dashboards down and forward a few inches. Storage capacity has grown thanks to a double glove compartment (in the WT and LT) and even-larger center storage consoles. Powertrain changes aren’t dramatic in this generation. Engine choices range from a 4.3-liter V-6 to a 6.0-liter V-8. The 5.3-liter engine includes fuel-saving cylinder-deactivation technology and flex-fuel choices — capable of running on E85 ethanol and/or gasoline. The 6.0-liter grants the maximum towing capacity of 10,500 pounds

Awarded Best Truck of 2008 by Motor Trend magazine, the Toyota Tundra’s massive size, impressive interior space and optional 5.7-liter V8 engine secured its spot at the top of our full size truck ratings. The new Tundra offers three different powertrains (one V-6 and two V-8s), with the 5.7-liter V-8 a high-tech wonder and torque monster. Interior comfort is the best with a hush-hush cabin, lots of compartments and features that transform the Tundra into a working office on wheels.