I drive a Nissan Xterra. The first model out - 2000. I love it. It has a very reliable engine and lots of room for animals, bikes and windsurfing gear. But I have to reiterate what others have already stated. Getting a big dog into an SUV as they age is a tough chore. I used to have a 130 lb Bullmastiff and my SUV was great until he hit about 9 yrs old. Then I started noticing that he would limp the day after he had gone for a car ride. I ended up training him to use a small rubbermaid step ladder to get in and out of the back. That worked alright until he was about 11 yrs then he started having trouble with the nerves in his back legs and he couldn't reliably use the step ladder. I ended up heaving him into the truck most days if I had to take him someplace. Not a pretty sight. Ultimately, I had to have him put down in February of this year and I miss him dearly.

In the end, I had the vet come to the house to do the deed. It was just way too much for me to try to get him inside the vehicle.

I still love my truck buy I've vowed that when I'm ready to get another dog, I will get a ramp and use it always to prevent unnecessary joint trauma. I love my big dogs and they need all the help with their joints that they can get.