2000 vehicles already are becoming a thing of the past, making way for the 2001s. This is great news for those of you looking to buy a vehicle that’s brand new to the market: your chance to own a first edition.

Acura, Pontiac, Mazda and Buick -- among others -- have all decided to get into the SUV action for 2001. And if you aren’t a big fan of SUVs, prepare yourself for some disappointment. 2002 will bring even more new SUVs to the market. Hybrids, like the all-new Ford Explorer Sport Trac, also are growing in popularity. Here is the first batch of featured SUVs that have been, or soon will be, released.

Acura MDX

The MDX is an SUV with the heart and soul of a sports car. This new addition to the Acura lineup delivers performance, handling, class-leading fuel efficiency and a five-star safety rating. Would you expect anything less from Acura?

The MDX comes equipped with an all-aluminum, 3.5-liter, 240-horsepower V-6 engine. Some of its standard features include power windows, door locks and mirrors; power tilt and sliding moonroof; and power-adjustable, heated front seats. Optional features include a touring package and a DVD-based Acura Navigation System. It is scheduled to be released on Oct. 5 and will be priced in the mid-$30,000 range. (No official price has been released.)

Hyundai Santa Fe

The Santa Fe, based on the Hyundai Sonata platform, was designed to directly compete with the Toyota RAV4, Honda CRV and Subaru Forester. How competitive will it be, though? That is the question.

Although the Santa Fe is equipped with seating for five passengers, it seems that even four passengers will push the comfort level. Standard equipment includes power windows, stereo with CD player and air conditioning. And if you crave a little luxury in this non-luxury vehicle, leather upholstery is an option. It is powered by either a 150-horsepower four-cylinder or a 181-horsepower six-cylinder, and consumers have the choice of front-wheel drive or permanently engaged all-wheel drive. The Santa Fe will carry a base price between $17,000 and $23,000.

Toyota Sequoia

Sequoia: It sounds as if it can climb mountains and trudge through deep mud. The name is deceiving. But, if you’re searching for a new full-size sport utility vehicle, your journey might stop in the Sequoias. Watch out, Tahoe and Expedition: There is a new kid on the block.

The Sequoia’s length falls between the Tahoe’s 199 inches and the Expedition’s 205 inches, measuring in at 203.9. Width and height measurements are also very similar between the three vehicles. Performance, handling and comfort separate these three vehicles, though, and will factor largely into your decision-making process when choosing between them.

Sequoia is powered by a 4.7-liter, i-force V-8. Its 240-horsepower and 315 pounds per foot of torque deliver plenty of power, while at the same time meeting the requirements of the Ultra Low Emission Vehicle certification from the EPA. The U.S.-built eight seater will hit showrooms in the fall of 2000.

Pontiac Aztek

Its looks may not be the most appealing, but the Aztek does have its attractive points. And if you do like its distinct exterior design, the Aztek may just be the vehicle for you. One thing’s for sure: It’s a head-turner.

Aztek separates itself from run-of-the-mill SUVs with useful features like its insulated cooler, located in the center console. The cooler is convenient for keeping drinks or snacks cold and doubles as a CD holder. Other attractive features include its tailgate seating, equipped with two drink holders and an optional custom-fit tent and air mattress -- perfect for weekend campers.

The Aztek’s 3.4-liter V-6 packs plenty of punch, and its performance and handling are very competitive. Aztek hit the market this summer with a base MSRP of $21,500.