What is an advantage in the brush is a disadvantage driving around Bethlehem. The tall ride height and soft springs that make driving over boulders easy makes for tricky maneuvering around town. That's why I predict that car-based SUVs will quickly grow in popularity. And once again, thank Japan for delivering such a vehicle. While the engine produces 20 more horses than when the vehicle was first introduced in 1997, it still feels strained at times.
Acceleration is leisurely off the line.
The test vehicle had a four-speed automatic. A five-speed manual would make this vehicle more responsive. The engine is raucous when revved, which is usually after downshifting for more power. If you order the automatic, you'll want to push the button on the column-mounted shifter to lock out overdrive most of the time. Steering is quick and responsive, and the vehicle has a short turning radius.