Asking for reliability, styling, handling, and ride quality on a bumpy dirt road makes this a tough one. It's just not possible to maximize all of these in the same vehicle.
The Ford Edge isn't outstanding in any particular area, but performs well in all of them, including reliability. The 2011 was the first with the MyFord Touch system, which has its critics but that tech-oriented people are more likely to like. The closely related Lincoln MKX is a little more luxurious.
Ford patterned the Edge after the Nissan Murano. The second-generation Murano, offered from 2009 on, has been reliable in our surveys so far. Older Muranos have transmission and suspension issues.
The Infiniti EX and FX (second-gen 2009 and up) are stylish, reliable, and fun to drive, but ride firmly and don't have the highest-tech infotainment systems. Plus the EX is very tight inside.
If you really don't need much interior space the Nissan JUKE might also be an option.
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