There's no question that buying an SUV can be pricey, and even when shopping the used car market for discounted vehicles, buyers will likely be spending more than they would on a sedan or hatchback. That's why it's important to get all the features and performance possible out of an SUV at a reasonable price.

MSN Autos recently took a look at some of the top SUVs available on the market that can deliver great value without breaking the bank.

The Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V are two entry-level SUVs that have sold well for their respective companies over their lifespan. While the news source claims that both offer buyers good value, the RAV4 is a bit more flexible, allowing drivers the option to upgrade from a four-cylinder engine to a six-cylinder while the CR-V is four-cylinder only.

Ford had two entries on the list, but both models are aimed at very different segments of SUV buyers. The Ford Flex offers exactly what it's name implies: flexibility. This model is big enough for families to be seated comfortably, but also offers a more practical fuel economy rating and aggressive styling than more traditional SUVs. Meanwhile, the Ford Expedition is what many consider to be "traditional." Offering a ton of roominess, cargo and storage capacity, plus the ability to be outfitted for off-roading, the Expedition is a classic SUV that helped kick off the big car trend several years ago.

Chevrolet was also well-represented on the list, with the Equinox, Traverse and Tahoe all making the cut. The news source cited the Equinox's roominess and size as a major factor in the recommendation, noting that it offers near-midsize level space at a compact price. The Chevy Traverse is aimed at larger families, with seating for eight and a range of optional electronics upgrades that can make long hauls a bit easier. The Traverse is closely related to the Buick Enclave and GMC Acadia, which the news source also recommends. Yet the Tahoe may be the ultimate vacation vehicle, with class-leading fuel economy and enough towing capacity to haul a boat or trailer. Available upgrades can also bring the Tahoe close
to many luxury SUVs.

There's no shortage of options for buyers seeking value in the SUV market. Those who shop the used car lots can likely find a few of these highly-praised models for even further reduced prices.
 

With all three Detroit automakers on the verge of bankruptcy, the American car market needed an injection of innovation – and government assistance – to stay afloat. But with Ford avoiding a bailout, General Motors prepping to go public again and Chrysler now under the control of Fiat, it appears the fortunes of American-made vehicles are slowly turning around.

MSN Autos recently looked at some of the models that have helped the brands reinvent themselves in the past few years. For drivers interested in purchasing a vehicle, buying American can be an important consideration. Given the latest lineups of cars for sale offered by the Detroit Three, these buyers finally have some attractive options that can compete with foreign models.

Most agree that Ford's turnaround has been the most impressive. The automaker was the only one of the American companies to avoid a government bailout, shifting its focus to smaller and more fuel-efficient vehicles. That said, new editions of classics like the Mustang and F-150 have ensured that the brand's legacy has safely transitioned to the modern era.

The news source highlighted the Ford Fiesta and Fusion as two models representative of the culture shift in Detroit. Rather than focus on big engines, the Fiesta subcompact and Fusion hybrid are the types of cars previously favored by Europe and Japan. Yet with each boasting more than 40 miles per gallon and stylish looks, the models have become winners at home as well.

General Motors has also been successful in its comeback, with its upcoming IPO beginning the process of ending control by the U.S. Treasury Department. The upcoming Chevy Volt will be one of the first electric vehicles in the country and was recently named Motor Trend's Car of the Year.

Yet the Volt isn't the only news at GM. The Cadillac brand has undergone a renaissance as well and looks to be challenging luxury automakers with the new CTS Coupe. GM has also partially reinvented the Buick nameplate with new models like the Enclave, LaCrosse and Regal Turbo that has led to a 60 percent sales increase for the brand, according to the news source.

Chrysler is often considered to be lagging behind its two rivals, and in many respects that's true. But hope is not lost for this classic brand, which is now under the control of the Italian automaker Fiat. The Jeep Grand Cherokee underwent a successful redesign this year, while the Ram brand has continued to sell well-made pickup trucks.

The Chrysler brand itself hasn't had many things to cheer about, but the 300, introduced in 2005, has been a success for the brand. This version of the 300 inspired the Dodge Charger and Challenger reboots as well. With a new 300 equipped with the powerful Pentastar V6 engine slated for showrooms in 2011, Chrysler will hope to duplicate that success, and with several other new models planned over the next year, including a redesigned Sebring dubbed the 200, it appears Chrysler is on the right track.

These acclaimed models may be a bit pricey now, so drivers interested in buying American may want to wait until they hit the used car market to take advantage of savings.