fitcyclist, thanks for the viewpoint on the issue. But, let me clarify my stance on this. I have no problem with the use of these vehicles when they are used for thier original INTENDED purpose. ie: Carrying large groups of people / cargo, towing, and OFF ROAD / poor conditions driving (ie a northern MN blizzard where you can get a foot an hour or more) where 4 wheel drive is an asset rather than a gas sucking liability. ( I do realize that 2 wheel drive versions are out there, but that's not the main point) What I'm against in my "narrow" little mindset is those jabronies out there that use them to run to the store for milk, to drive themselves to work as a single occupant vehicle (Suburbans make EXCELLENT carpool vehicles), and wanna be "playas" who use them as a platform for their stereo systems so that they can drive around parking lots setting off car alarms. Driving is a privilage, NOT a right, and I wish that people whould make their new automotive vehicle choices based more on practicallity than the so-called "bling-bling" factor.
But that's my 2 cents.