SUVs gain popularity among Wyoming drivers

The Jeep Grand Cherokee is said to be the most-awarded SUV ever.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee is said to be the most-awarded SUV ever. | Contributed photo

In Wyoming, pickups have long been the top choice of drivers, but SUVs are quickly rising in popularity. A little higher off the ground, they can comfortably seat five passengers -- or even more.  

Without further ado, here are five of Wyoming’s most popular mid-sized SUVs.

First is the Dodge Durango. Named “Crossover of the Year 2017” by Rocky Mountain Auto Press, it has three rows that can seat up to seven passengers. Durango is available in rear- and all-wheel drive, the latter of which is more popular in Wyoming. 

Among its features are Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for smartphone integration. Smartphones can also be connected to the 8.4-inch UConnect color touchscreen. 

Next is the Toyota Highlander, which is available in AWD. Now in its third generation, the Toyota Highlander has a 3.5L V-6 engine in the AWD powertrain, as well as other features such as Toyota Safety Sense. In addition, it can seat up to eight passengers and starts at $34,540 for the AWD LE model. 

Another Toyota on the list -- the 4Runner -- can be used for off-road and rugged terrain driving. One of the 4Runner’s features is Crawl Control, which is similar to an off-road cruise control. The Toyota 4Runner starts at $34,610.

Next is the Ford Explorer, which has an intelligent 4WD and Terrain Management System that allows control selections depending on the terrain. It also has a 3.5L EcoBoost engine that can tow up to 5,000 lbs. and can seat up to seven passengers. The Ford Explorer starts at $32,785 for the 4WD. 

The most popular mid-size SUV in Wyoming is the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee, which is said to be the most-awarded SUV ever according to Jeep. It features the latest safety and driver assistance technology, along with infotainment and smartphone integration.