Five Best Affordable 2010 SUV Alternatives

Just because you have kids and hobbies and more responsibilities than you care to mention doesn't mean you have to drive an SUV. Have you ever noticed how lacking in "sport" most of these "sport utility vehicles" actually are? And despite the fact that newer car based SUV models are being referred to as crossovers the majority of them still have resolutely abysmal fuel economy and emissions ratings.

But all hope is not lost if you just look a little more closely at the cornucopia of new 2010 models available to suit your ever changing needs. Many auto manufacturers realize that people are burned out with SUVs but don't necessarily want to drive their parent's old family sedan. These "in-betweener" cars (don't call them wagons!) have spacious cargo areas, ample seating and will save you enough money at the gas pumps that you will finally be able to start putting money in Junior's college fund.

So if you are prepared to be the first one on your block to buck a trend and blaze your own trail these five SUV alternatives will be sure to scare and excite the neighbors. And isn't that part of the fun of buying a new car? Besides that new car smell, of course.

Kia Rondo (7 Seat SUV Alternative): This wacky looking and hugely underrated vehicle is small on the outside yet has enough room for a third row of child friendly seats. And imagine all the happy memories your kids will have of fighting over who gets to sit in the back (don't say you didn't do that to YOUR parents). You can equip your Rondo with a peppy V6 or fuel efficient four cylinder engine and for your peace of mind every new Kia comes with a free 10 year/100,000 mile powertrain warranty.

VW Jetta Sportwagen TDI (Efficient SUV Alternative): Capable of highway miles per gallon in the 40-range, the Jetta Sportwagen TDI diesel is the new favorite among tree huggers and penny pinchers alike. The Jetta's cargo hold is also hugely spacious shaming many a cute-ute (including the Tiguan) for hauling capabilities. One final bonus? Diesel engines can withstand huge mileages without mechanical issues and as such older TDI models have barely depreciated at all in value. How can you beat that?

Hyundai Elantra Touring: (Inexpensive to Run SUV Alternative): For 2010 Hyundai lowered the price of this stylish and fun to drive little wagon by $1800. Designed in Europe, the interior is a vision of VW-like efficiency and the standard five speed manual is the best found in any Hyundai. Surprisingly roomy, the 2010 Elantra Touring has a larger cargo area than even the Nissan Murano.

Subaru Outback: (All the Utility You'll Ever Need SUV Alternative): All new for 2010, this iconic all-wheel drive workhorse is more spacious, fuel efficient and utilitarian than ever. If you live in a Snow Belt State yet still love to drive this is a great choice. The interior of the 2010 model also appears so sturdily built it should have "built to last" logo stamped on it. Build quality like this is why you see so many 20 year old Subarus driving around.

Kia Soul (Boxy yet Stylish SUV Alternative): Not for the faint of heart, this off-beat choice is surprisingly roomy and features an interior with build quality that does not belie its $14,000 starting price. This is a great choice for trendy small families on a budget or people whose active lifestyle doesn't allow them much extra cash to spend on a car or gas. Both engine options get fuel economy is the 30 mpg range. Oh yeah, and the Soul just looks really cool too.