TeamChoosing your ideal SUV that reflects your priorities and your lifestyle, and your budget can be challenging. From the choice of model and make to budget and financing options, thorough research can help you prevent any unwelcome remorse. Here is a quick guide to help you choose the best SUV.
Size
SUVs come in a variety of sizes. If you have a large family, a compact SUV that offers space for five might be small for you. You need to find a large SUV with third-row seating that provides space for lots of luggage. So how many people do you expect to transport at once? How much space do you need? Knowing the size of SUV you need before visiting a car dealer will simplify your buying process.
Conventional or Crossover
SUVs are grouped into conventional and crossover. Conventional options drive like trucks and have towing capacities, while crossovers are smaller and offer improved handling similar to driving a car. Consider how you drive and whether you’ll be carrying heavy loads or trailers with your new SUV. This will help you select the perfect category for you.
Pump Considerations
Buying an SUV means you will be spending more money at the pump because SUVs are heavier, bigger, and less aerodynamic than regular cars. Prepare yourself for a considerable amount of fuel economy than you expect from a regular vehicle, whether you opt for a four-cylinder or six-cylinder. A four-cylinder SUV might be the best option if you drive long distances with very little off-road time.
Two-Wheel or Four-Wheel
How will you be driving the SUV? A two-wheel-drive option might work fine for your need if you drive around in urban areas. Two-wheel drive saves you gas and is easier to maintain. However, a four-wheel drive could be the best option if you deal with rough terrain or inclement weather. You also need Four-wheel SUV if you have visions of off-road exploration.
Safety Considerations
Overall safety is also another important thing to consider when buying an SUV. Because SUVs are larger vehicles doesn’t make them invulnerable on the roads. The greater weight of SUVs means higher stopping distances. The higher center of gravity makes SUVs more susceptible to roll-over accidents. Most SUVs come with different safety features such as antilock brakes and airbags, lane departure, rearview cameras, and blind-spot warning systems. If you want to choose the safest SUV, check NHTSA crash ratings for more information.
Performance
In the past, SUV engines weren’t the most economical because they needed a lot of power to deal with tough terrain. Today, things are a bit different with SUVs engines being smaller with turbo-charged varieties. The turbo helps you to create low-end torque to limit fuel consumption. These small engines differ, so it’s well worth taking the SUV(s) you intended to buy for a test drive before you purchase the car.
Towing
Besides towing trucks, SUVs offer the best towing capabilities. Smaller SUVs can tow up to 4,000 pounds, which is enough for most people. Some Medium to Large size SUVs can tow up to 9,000 pounds. This should satisfy your hauling needs.
Off-Roading
SUVs are equipped for off-roading due to their availability in 4 wheel drive models and high ground clearance. The best SUVs for off-roading are found in mid to large-size SUVs since they handle well on rough terrain. Ensure your chosen SUV passes maneuverability, traction, articulation, ground clearance, and water fording ability test.
Cargo
People buy SUVs because of the cargo and passenger space that no other vehicle type can provide. Usually, SUVs are available in 5 seating up to 8 seating. All seats come with additional cargo, ideal for vacations or extended trips. SUVs are excellent for their storage options because most SUVs have seat rows that fold down, giving you more storage than any vehicle. It would help if you also think about how swiftly you can convert seating positions into cargo space. What do you prefer when carrying cargo: removable seats or seats that lie flat?
Budget
SUVs range from sedan-level affordability to aspirational luxury, so you need to know where your price point is. Once you know your price point, you can quickly identify the makes, models, and trim levels that fit your budget. Most SUVs are designed with your comfort in mind. So don’t think that a more affordable SUV means a sacrifice in terms of quality or amenities.
In Summary
Choosing the best SUV is not easy. You need to know what you need. We hope this guide will help you make the right choice when choosing the best SUV.
