An SUV (sports utility vehicle) is one of the most popular automobiles today. It has always represented adventure and freedom, along with safety. The vehicle is known for its capability to offer a smooth ride. Although adventure enthusiasts prefer SUVs, the vehicle is also popular among family buyers. It is considered a great alternative to traditional vehicle options like minivans. Here is all you need to know if you are considering buying an SUV:
Best features
Here is why buying an SUV might be a great idea:
Ride height: While comfort and safety features are top priorities, you shouldn’t ignore the vehicle’s robustness. A major advantage of an SUV is its ground clearance, which allows the car to absorb shocks on the road. The elevated ride height ensures the body of the car does not get damaged by rocky terrain or uneven roads. Further, the elevated ride height allows for a better view of the road ahead.
Fuel efficiency: The latest SUV models are designed to offer incredible fuel economy, which means they could be perfect options for daily use and not just off-roading adventures. So, you should choose SUVs with either economic internal combustion engines or a hybrid/all-electric powertrain that can offer high efficiency and performance.
Comfort: SUVs are known for their excellent ability to tackle rough roads. Most models offer a smooth and comfortable ride and minimize the impact of uneven terrain.
Safety: Unsurprisingly, SUVs are among the safest cars on the road, scoring well in rigorous crash tests. SUVs are designed to handle and reduce the impact of a sudden collision, ultimately reducing the chance of injury for the occupants. Most SUVs come with key safety and driver assistance features like forward collision assist and lane departure warning to reduce the likelihood of accidents.
Space: SUVs are generally built to accommodate around three rows of occupants. The interior is roomy enough to offer adequate leg and headroom to all three rows. Cargo space is also a key feature to consider, which you can find in most SUV models today.
Top models to consider
You can choose from a wide variety of top SUV brands and models that meet your budget and specific requirements. Some of the top models you can consider are:
- Hyundai Tucson
- Chevrolet Tahoe
- Lexus RX
- Honda CR-V
- Ford Explorer
Cost
The price of an SUV varies depending on the brand and features of the model, and top-notch models can sell for over $72,000. However, If you are on a budget, you can still find great variants that offer all the key features. Here are some new and old models available at anywhere between $25,000 and $30,000:
- Dodge Journey
- Nissan Pathfinder
- Hyundai Santa Fe
- Ford Flex
- Mitsubishi Outlander
The SUV is one of the most coveted vehicle types in the automobile industry, as it combines the space of a minivan, the comfort of a sedan, and the ruggedness of a Jeep. From crossovers to full-size SUVs, most models offer excellent performance and the ability to drive through harsh weather and terrain without compromising comfort.