Reasons to buy an SUV
SUVs have different features for all types of drivers. They give versatile cargo space, and they give most overall versatility of all vehicle types. Suvs offer a higher driving postion than any passenger car. Some have the ability to carry either seven or eight passengers, with the models that come with the third row seating. The models that come with all wheel or four wheel drive offers extra traction when driving in dangerous conditions. The larger models are bad with gas mileage, and can roll over more easily in emergency maneuvers.
Car-based vs. truck-based SUVs
Car-based SUVs, which have become really popular today, are built on carlike unibody platforms. They generally provide better handling, fuel ecomony, and ride comfort than the truck-based SUVs. They can be driven in more moderate off-road situations, unlike the truck models which can handle more extreme off-road situations.
Truck-based SUVs are built on body-on-frame platforms, like trucks. Often times they offer more towing capacity. However, the handling is not as good as the car-based SUVs, and the ride is not as smooth.
Engines and transmissions
Providing the best balance between fuel economy and power, most SUVs are equpit with a six cylinder engine. Some of the larger models come with a V8 engine that offers better towing, and better acceleration, but they usually have less gas mileage. Some of the smaller models come with a four cylinder engine, that offers better fuel economy but lacks the power.
Automatic transmission
All SUVs are now available with the automatic transmissions. Some are still available with the manual transmission, which can save you gas. Now, some automatics come with the manual-shift mode. This allows for the driver to shift as if it were a manual transmission, but with no clutch.
4WD, AWD, or rear-wheel drive?
Most SUVs offer either four wheel drive, or all wheel drive. Some of the truck based models still come with the real wheel drive versions. Four wheel drive, and all wheel drive gives power to all four wheels of the SUV, but the four wheel drive offers a low gearing, for off-road situations.
Seating
All SUVs can seat at least five people. The larger models offer third row seating which can seat seven to eight people, but the third row is hard to access and is easier for children to access. Most third row seats will fold down into the floor when not it’s not being used.
Access
Most of the SUV models offer wide rear and front doors, and plenty of head room. However, becasue the SUVs sit higher off the ground than a regular car, getting in could be a problem for short people, children, and disabled people.
Safety features
All new vechicles come with the standard front airbags, safety belts, and very good latch child seat attachments. Many models now come with side airbags, and head protection air bags. When considering an SUV, look for features such as daytime running lights, and maybe traction control.
