Over half of surveyed Consumer Reports online subscribers plan to buy or have recently purchased a new vehicle, and SUVs are the number-one pick for those still considering which vehicle type to buy, according to a recent survey. The popularity of SUVs signals a return to larger, versatile vehicles, despite the steep prices at the pump last year that led to a surge in small car sales. These findings are from a recent survey conducted by the Consumer Reports National Research Center that included more than 2,000 interviews of ConsumerReports.org subscribers.

Survey respondents who recently bought sport/utilities, or anticipated buying one, had several reasons for why they considered SUVs to have unique benefits and advantages over other vehicle types. Space, convenience, and perceived safety are three examples cited by at least a third of CRO subscribers.

Leading reasons to purchase an SUV

63 percent said they need extra cargo space
59 percent said they like to sit up high and see over other cars
51 percent said they need all-wheel drive to handle bad weather
41 percent said the SUV's versatility is worth the lower gas mileage
37 percent said they feel safer in a SUV
31 percent said they don't like the image of minivans
27 percent said they need room to carry more than five people

SUVs can range in size and price, and all of the reasons listed above show why they appeal to various types of drivers. (See our in-depth SUV buying advice and Ratings.) 

It should be noted, however, that because of their taller height, SUVs as a class are not as nimble as passenger cars and have a greater rollover risk in emergency handling maneuvers. Also, their added weight compromises fuel economy. For these reasons, and more, a station wagon or minivan are worthwhile alternatives.

Station wagons--like a Subaru Outback--and even some hatchbacks combine the cargo-carrying flexibility of a small or midsized SUV with the comfort, fuel economy, handling, and performance that can rival a sedan. Even a small hatchback such as the Honda Fit can provide a lot of cargo room for its size. Also, all-wheel drive is not limited to SUVs. An increasing number of cars are offering AWD.

Read our wagon buying advice and ratings, available to online subscribers.

—Maggie Shader with the Consumer Reports National Research Center