Why are we doing a year in review special on SUVs in August? Well, before the 2008 models officially start to roll out, we decided to take a look back at the top performers of the 2007 class. Here are three of our favorites.

photo by steed media service

Mercedes-Benz GL450
Mercedes entered the largest SUV class with a bang by releasing the GL450. Ready to push the Escalade and Navigator to the side, this hulking Benz impressively not only held its own within this class, it surged ahead of the pack to stake itself as the heavyweight champion of the world. MSRP: $55,675 Power: 4.6-liter V8, 335-hp Fuel: 14/18 mpg

photo by steed media service

Acura RDX
The mission for Honda's Acura division at the outset of its 2007 models being released? To expand their appeal by releasing several significantly redesigned vehicles. The result? The super sleek and equally sexy RDX is not only a lot safer, its features are more luxurious than its predecessors. MSRP: $32,995 Power: 2.3-liter turbo inline-4, 240-hp Fuel: 19/23 mpg

photo by steed media service

Mazda CX-7
Mazda has done a superb job at carving out its own little niche in the low-cost import market. The CX-7 not only does minimal damage to your pockets, it's also a pretty fun car to drive. While the expectations were high when the 2007 version was released, they were all surpassed, earning them a place in our top three. MSRP: $24,345 Power: 2.3-liter 4-cylinder, 244-hp Fuel: 19/24 mpg

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