"As the compact utility segment continues its growth, consumers are demanding more than just traditional SUV functionality," stated Brooks. "They want more style, more features and amenities, in a comfortably sized package."

Although not revolutionary, the interior of the new SUV delivers all the features you could want for its entry-level price. (Photo: Shawn Pisio, Canadian Auto Press)

The interior design won't win any creativity awards, but it delivers what most people want. Large easy-to-read instruments face the driver behind a purposeful 4-spoke steering wheel, while an attractive metal-finish center stack protrudes slightly from dash level toward the driver and front passenger, offering an easier reach to radio and HVAC controls. My LT tester featured optional leather seat surfaces, a nice touch that elevates the vehicle to an upwardly mobile class seemingly beyond its comparatively reasonable fully-loaded price point. The "Preferred Equipment Group" adds $3,130 to the price of the $31,275 AWD LT model, plus in addition to the leather seating surfaces it adds heated front seats, an premium 7- speaker AM/FM audio system with a 6-disc dash-mounted CD changer, a leather-trimmed steering wheel with audio controls, a leather shift knob, light-sensitive rearview mirror with compass and temperature display, plus P235/60R17 Bridgestone all-season tires on 17 by 7 inch aluminum wheels.

A 185-hp 3.4-liter Vortec V6 produces 210 lb-ft of torque at 3,800 rpm. (Photo: Shawn Pisio, Canadian Auto Press)

At the base of the console, and raised up to meet the driver's right hand, is the shift lever for the 5-speed automatic transmission - a manual transmission has been conspicuously omitted from the spec sheet. This connects to either front- or all-wheel drive, powered by a 185-hp 3.4-liter Vortec V6, with a maximum of 210 lb-ft of torque at a very tractable 3,800 rpm. This standard engine not only improves off-the-line acceleration and passing power when compared to the old Tracker, but the towing capacity can be increased to 1,588 kg (3,500 lbs) with an optional package.