Soccer moms
In defense of the SUV, they are the new improved prototype of the van and station wagon.
Hatchbacks with storage, good visibility, you don't have to lean into a cockpit to wire Junior into his carseat, and the kids can throw their gear easily in the hatchback. Carry bikes and canoes on the top, etc.
>"That someone has a lot of kids, purely an ego trip, and hauls all of them around once in a while doesn't mean they need a 4-wheel drive heavy monster."
They're also safer. I know it's been a long time since you hauled any kids around, but moms and dads will spend the extra money to keep Junior safe.