This isn't a traditional comparison test, pitting different models with similar missions in life against one another in a contest of performance and utility. Rather, we've gathered top-level versions of compact General Motors sport utilities to see which one we would recommend to a friend (in other words, you, the reader.) Because the vehicles are essentially the same, differing only in minor styling details, equipment levels, and suspension tuning, we didn't torture them off-road or on the track. The entire staff didn't turn out for hundreds of miles of driving on freeways, two-lane roads and city streets. One editor, yours truly, drove them consecutively for a week each in Denver, Colo., using the SUVs as family transportation and conducting the same humdrum chores as the average American. The rankings are based on my subjective opinions about the vehicles - your results may vary.

But before we proceed, let's discuss the foundation upon which the Chevrolet TrailBlazer, GMC Envoy and Oldsmobile Bravada are based. Derived from the S-Series pickup platform, which was engineered in the early '90s, this body-on-frame SUV provides distinctly truck-like ride and handling characteristics. Steering is numb and devoid of feel, and transmits lots of kickback on harsh surfaces. The turning circle is wide enough to almost require three-point turns in cul-de-sacs, which is no good for quick U-turns, parking in small lots or maneuvering around trees in the wilderness. The brake pedal is nothing more than a rubber-covered brick, and provides all the progressive feel of said masonry material. At speed, mid-curve bridge transitions create an unsettling wave of fore-aft and side-to-side body rock as the trucks' weight slithers around the high center of gravity. Just what the doctor ordered while traveling at 65 mph.

Under the hood, a 190-horsepower, 4.3-liter V6 labors to motivate more than 2 tons of metal, glass, rubber and plastic. A smooth-shifting four-speed automatic transmission routes power to the rear wheels on TrailBlazer and Envoy, or all four through Bravada's exclusive SmartTrak. The Chevy and GMC are equipped with AutoTrac, which diverts power automatically from the wheels that slip to the wheels that grip. Either system can cause axle bind in tight parking situations, resulting in a decidedly agrarian feel.

Inside, exceptional ergonomic design is finished in some of the cheapest plastic trim on the planet. Furthermore, whole chunks of the interior can be easily pulled off with your bare hands. Fortunately, the sturdy grab handle in front of the front passenger is securely anchored. Comfort levels for front-seat passengers is generally high despite the lack of adjustable front seatbelts. Rear-seat riders will need to be short of stature to be comfortable, thanks to a low cushion, high floor and limited under-seat footroom. Cargo volume is generous with the rear seats folded, and all of these trucks are equipped with handy flip-and-fold rear headrests that stow themselves when expanding the cargo area. Large exterior mirrors enhance already excellent visibility.

Stylistically, General Motors has done a fine job with the basic shape of the TrailBlazer, Envoy and Bravada. Crisp and clean upon introduction for the 1995 model year, this compact GM ute has seen only minor front and rear appearance tweaks in the past five years, but it still looks contemporary - even sporty. The luxury-oriented models we tested use tricks like body cladding, gold trim, alloy wheels and tape striping to move the look further upscale. Some of it works, and some of it doesn't.

Each of our test trucks was well-equipped, but each suffered shortcomings in this area as they were tested. None provided the perfect blend of functional goodies and coddling accoutrements. All were exceptionally comfortable for the driver, thanks to a power adjustable front seat that nearly anybody would find accommodating. Identical powertrains were found in each truck, and interior dimensions matched. Selecting a winner came down to our, well, my personal preferences.