One old and very well-recognized nameplate, the Jeep Cherokee has returned. And it's a good off-roader as well as a very comfortable, easy street performer. It could possibly be the first compact SUV to do both equally well.
In the meantime, the Subaru Forester has been on a steady path of progress. The Forester's gotten so good at blending wagon and sport-utility vehicle traits that we named it our Best Car To Buy 2014.
And that begs the question: Which is better at taking on everyday family tasks, while still giving off the right SUV flavor and texture?