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Buying an SUV seems like an easy decision, but as with all car purchases, there are several factors you must consider first.
Category: Car Buying Advice
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If you're like many buyers, you may have considered a Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) as your next car, especially if you've never owned one.
Buyers are still enamoured with these rugged-looking machines, which explains why carmakers keep churning them out. Every major manufacturer has at least two SUV models in their lineup.
Luxury brands are well-represented, too. BMW's range for instance, spans from the X1 to the X7. We wouldn't be surprised if they suddenly unleashed an X8.
Now, you probably have friends and relatives who own SUVs, and they may have extolled the virtues of this type of car. Since so many people own them, it must be okay to get one, right?
We're not going to tell you what car is right for you. However, before buying an SUV, we do suggest you consider these points first.
1. Can you handle one?
SUVs have a high driving position, which leads to better forward and lateral visibility. This can give you more confidence.
However, while forward and lateral visibility are great, manoeuvring and parking an SUV in tight spaces comes with its own risks. We're pretty sure those colourful walls you see in carparks weren't part of the original design.
Test-driving an SUV is always a must. But instead of just driving on familiar roads, we suggest you go to a carpark and try to park it as well. Then, you'll have a better idea of what you'll face daily.
Remember, SUVs aren't just trickier to handle in tight spots. They also require longer stopping distances, especially when fully loaded.
2. Don't be blinded by blind spots
Some SUV models come with blind spot monitors to warn drivers of other vehicles in their blind spot when they change lanes. But as with any technology, you cannot rely on it 100%.
Safety is always in the hands of the driver. Besides, if you become too reliant and too used to such systems, what happens if they suddenly fail?
3. Fuel can burn a hole in your pocket
We are not saying that all SUVs are petrol guzzlers. However, it is an accepted fact that an SUV is not the most efficient type of vehicle you can buy.
SUVs weigh more than regular saloons and have more aerodynamic drag as well. It's not so easy to slice through the air when there's so much sheet-metal to move.
More weight means engines have to work harder, especially with a full complement of passengers. That's also detrimental to fuel economy.
But if you're set on buying an SUV, then set aside a higher budget for petrol costs.