I bought a 98 4wd rustic orange Eddie Bauer edition. Besides a couple minor recalls (sticky gas pedal and door latch), I have been very pleased with this SUV.

The leather seats in front are very comfortable. I like the ability to be able to change stations, volume, cds, and cruise control all from the steering wheel. Visibility is excellent from the driver's perspective. It's real handy having the cd changer right in the center console. In addition, the storage space in this suv is excellent.

The cargo space in back has held up to the task carrying anything from our luggage, stroller, camping equipment, gardening supplies, and pretty much anything we typically bring with us. I like having my sunglasses in the overhead compartment, my car garage opener in the bottom center next to the large drink holders, and my cell phone and tapes in the center console. It was also a nice feature having a removable cover to hide anything in the cargo space.

During cold winter days, the heater and defroster have worked pretty fast and during the summer, the air conditioner has been great. The ABS and brakes on this SUV worked great for me. I happened to be picking something up from the floor and at the last minute noticed the car in front of me stopped. I must have been going 30mph and slammed on my brakes. I was able to stop within a half foot of the car without swerving or losing control.

I'd recommend this vehicle to a family up to 4 people. I think the fifth person sitting in the back center will feel a little cramped unless it's a child. The rear seats aren't that comfortable for long trips. For us it didn't matter that much since we have two small children sitting in car seats.

One minor flaw I wished was available in this SUV is the ability to open the back from the inside. We were out at a picnic when I decided to take a nap in the back. Instead of climbing over the rear seats, it would have been easier to be able to just open the back door.

I've been getting around 16mpg mixed city/freeway driving. Not the best gas mileage in the world but modest when compared to other SUVs. The 205 hp engine has given me more than enough acceleration for hills, entering freeways, and passing cars on the road.

The last thing I'd like to say about this SUV is that it plainly looks and drives great.
Amount Paid (US$): 30000
Condition: New
Model Year: 1998
Model and Options: Eddie Bauer Edition