The main reason for getting an SUV is to protect my kids when they're being driven to school and after-school activities by the babysitter. Since there are a lot of SUVs in my community (they've really become part of the national landscape), I'm figuring that I've got to act in self-defense. If other people drive a big car, I want my kids to be protected in case of an accident - the bigger car wins.
So my main reason is safety.
I don't plan to do any off-roading.
I was seriously considering the Honda Pilot but it does not come with side-curtain air bags, nor can you order them as an option. You can get them on the 4Runner, so I'm thinking I'll trade the extra seats in the Pilot for the side-curtain air bags on the 4Runner.

Bob