With so many SUVs on the market, and so many kinds of drivers buying them, it's hard to call one vehicle "the best." The Explorer won our test handily, but that doesn't mean it will suit your tastes perfectly.

The Mitsubishi may have finished last, but for those who can live without massive amounts of horsepower and a plush ride, the Montero is an appealing vehicle. Its ability offroad is second to none, and the well-trimmed interior is a fine place to spend time on the road.

A fourth place finish might not seem like much, but the TrailBlazer has come a long way. The engine is still no substitute for a V8, but it's a gem on the highway, and it will likely get better mileage than those eight-cylinder gas-guzzlers in the long run. And if you like gadgets, the TrailBlazer has more than enough to keep you busy for quite some time.

The Durango's third-place finish is pretty good considering that it's headed for a complete redesign next year. With plenty of cargo space, a soft-riding suspension and smooth-running powertrain, the Durango deserves a test drive if you're serious about a seven-passenger sport-utility.

Like we said in the review, the Pathfinder is best suited for those who want an SUV that's most like a car. A great engine, competent suspension and sharp interior all add up to a capable sport-utility that will rarely disappoint.

But there always has to be a winner, and picking the Explorer wasn't a tough decision. From a driver's point of view, the strong V8 delivers power when you need it, the Control Trac system puts that power to the ground as efficiently as possible, and the suspension always lets you know what's going on down below. As a family vehicle, it provides a spacious interior, comprehensive safety features and the best crash test ratings in the category. Throw in handsome styling, and it's easy to see why the Explorer is our pick as the best midsize SUV on the market.