How to Choose the Right SUV
SUVs are appealing because they provide the most overall versatility of any type of vehicle. They provide abundant cargo carrying space, versatile seating, a higher driving position, and good towing capacity. With an AWD or 4WD, they also provide extra traction in slippery conditions and the ability to handle off-road terrain. Here are some tips for choosing the best SUV for your needs:
Sizes: SUVs come in a wide range of sizes and prices. Midsized SUVs provide a good balance of interior space, fuel economy, power and price. Smaller SUVs are generally less expensive and get better fuel economy, but they have less cargo and passenger space. Larger models provide more room and towing capacity, but get poor gas mileage.
Engines: Most SUVs come with a 6-cylinder engine, which provides the best balance between power and fuel economy. Some midsize and large models are available with a V8 that delivers smooth acceleration and is better for heavy towing, but usually takes a bigger toll in gas mileage. Smaller sized SUVs usually use a 4-cylinder engine, which gets better fuel economy but can have less power. All SUVs are available with an automatic transmission. Some models offer a manual transmission, which is more fuel-efficient.
4WD, AWD, or RWD: SUVs are available with either 4WD or AWD, and many truck-based SUVs still offer RWD versions. Both 4WD and AWD provide power to all four wheels, but 4WD includes low-range gearing for handling difficult off-road terrain. AWD is usually fine for normal adverse weather and moderate off-road driving. If you drive almost exclusively on pavement without snow or ice, consider a RWD model, which generally provides better fuel economy.
Seating: Most SUVs carry up to five people. Some mid and full-sized models include a third-row seat that increases passenger capacity to seven or eight, depending on the model. But third-row seats are often tight and more suited for children. Most third-row seats can fold flat into the rear cargo floor when not being used.
Access: Most SUVs offer wide front and rear doors for easy entry and exit. However, because their ground clearance is higher than cars, it can be difficult for short people, kids, and the disabled to get into them.
Cargo space: While SUVs offer more cargo space than passenger cars, comparable-sized vans and minivans sometimes have even more. To make the most of the cargo capacity, the second and third-row seats can be folded down. The most convenient type of third-row seat is one with a split design, so that one section can be folded down while allowing someone to sit in the other section. When comparing models, try removing and folding the seats to see which designs are easier to lower and raise.
Towing: Some larger models can tow up to 8,500 pounds. Car-based SUVs generally don’t tow as much. Look at the tow-capacity rating and be sure you get a vehicle that can handle what you need to tow. SUVs often require an optional tow package to handle the maximum rating.
Safety: All new SUVs have standard dual front air bags, three-point safety belts in the outboard seating positions, and top-tether and LATCH child-seat attachments in the rear seats. Many SUV models also offer side air bags and/or head-protection bags. Some models offer electronic stability control, which helps keep the vehicle from sliding or skidding when cornering. It’s useful in slippery conditions or in emergency avoidance maneuvers. Also look for additional safety features such as traction control, tire-pressure monitors, safety-belt pretensioners, occupant-sensing air-bag systems and daytime running lights.
