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How to find the SUV for you...Jan 24 '00 Write an essay on this topic.There are many factors you should consider when buying a SUV, however they all center around one basic thought, how do you intend to use it? How are you going to use it? Are you driving in the country or in the city? SUV's have poor gas mileage and really are not economical if you must make long trips to work or drive around a city all day. If you are a "weekend warrior" like I am, you might use the off road capabilities a few times a month. I sometimes need to use my Jeep Cherokee for work (construction management), so the cargo area provides a nice area to throw drawings, my boots, and a hard hat. Many job sites I visit are not paved or require me to drive in poor off road conditions to get to a job trailer. Occasionally the back of my car can be my office. Most people that own a SUV have never taken it off road or used the four wheel drive option. Many makes offer a two wheel drive option on some models. This way you can get the cargo space without the price tag. If you intend to use the four wheel drive option, you might want to consider a system that has a full-time option so you do not have to continually switch in and out of four wheel drive. It will cost you a little more, but you will not have to worry about driving in four wheel drive and damaging your car. You also need to consider many different options if you have children. Many back seats are cramped and tight, with a seat that offers no protection to the neck. The Honda Passport does have a fairly comfortable back seat with headrests. Not a bad option to consider if you have children. The level of luxury also has a role in the performance of your vehicle. Many higher end SUV's come with a V8, when if you are buying just for luxury, you really do not need that gas guzzling engine. Since I do not tow anything, I have an Inline 6 which is powerful enough to do what I do with my Jeep. What is true with many of the SUV's is that as the ride becomes more comfortable and luxurious, the off road capability may decrease (depends on manufacturer). You must be comfortable. Unless you really need a Hummer to do some serious off roading, you should be willing to spend a few extra dollars to be more comfortable. Safety is always a key concern. SUV's do have a tendency to tip, however this is something that you will have to allow for. You can not take a turn at 60 miles per hour. Many SUV's are rated highly on side impact tests, so it might be worth a look to Consumers Reports or other product testing agencies for this kind of information. Airbags are becoming pretty standard, and anti-lock brakes are available on most SUV's. Another consideration is how easy will you be able to get in and out of the vehicle. Many times, you may fit, but your spouse or family may find it difficult to get in and out of your SUV. Price is usually a deciding factor with SUV's. I have seen the stripped down base model with two wheel drive in some makes for under $18,000. There are usually many incentives offered by manufacturers so it is good to keep an eye out for those. One way of seeing some manufacturer's discounts is to go to Edmund's online (edmunds.com), and as you go through the different SUV's, some of the options will be manufacturer discounts. When all things are considered, you need to think about your usage, safety, and price. You should thoroughly research many different options and try to talk to as many vehicle owners as you can, most vehicle owners will readily tell you everything you need to know. If you have kids, bring them with you for the test drive to see how they fit in the back seat. Don't settle for something when you buy SUV, get what you want or what you will feel the best in. Look for incentives and local deals. Happy Hunting!  |
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