Can a salvage SUV realistically be repaired and re-registered for road use?

In most states, yes. After completing repairs, the vehicle must pass a state salvage/rebuilt inspection that verifies the VIN matches the title, checks the quality of the repair, and confirms parts weren't sourced from a stolen vehicle. Once it passes, the DMV issues a "rebuilt" or "prior salvage" title, which allows registration — though a small number of states restrict or prohibit rebuilding salvage titles entirely, so check your specific state's DMV rules first.