While many buyers prefer the image of an SUV to that of a minivan, midsize SUVs are often poor substitutes for more-practical minivans. The tall ride height of a mid size SUV vehicle presents a fun, jungle-gym-like challenge for children, but it can make for painful falls and extra effort for parents who have to lift tired children into high-positioned seats. The rear doors also aren't as convenient as the sliding doors of a minivan.

In these days of volatile gas prices, larger, more-powerful SUVs can cost considerably more to run. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, a 5.7-liter V8-powered 4WD Jeep Commander will cost you $2,671 per year in fuel, while a front-wheel-drive 4-cylinder Chevrolet Equinox will cost $1,542. What could you do with an extra $1,199 per year? There are varying degrees of cost savings between different models, but the point is this: Don't buy what you don't need unless you're willing to pay for it.

Finally, consider if you really need an SUV. If you don't plan to tow or go off-road, there are other alternatives that would be more convenient and cheaper to run. If you're only going to drive on the road and you still want an SUV, we suggest shopping for any of the car-type SUVs that made the SUV Blogger’s Best Buy or Recommended vehicle list.