Buying guide - SUV
The first sports utility vehicle was arguably the Range Rover in 1970. This took the tough, go anywhere chassis and four-wheel drive system of the Land Rover and married it to a luxurious new bodyshell. Since 1970 the number of SUVs on the market has multiplied to the extent that almost every major car marque now has some kind of SUV available for sale. These come in a variety of sizes and levels of trim, but all combine a relatively imposing off-roader form factor with a comfortable, family-friendly interior.
For people who are looking to buy a car in Dubai, an SUV could be an excellent choice. Due to the spacious interiors of many of these cars, they are an increasingly popular choice for families. Many of the four wheel drive equipped models are also highly competent off-road, which makes them an excellent choice for drivers who intend to go on adventure holidays. Here are some things to think about when making an SUV purchasing decision.
1. Budget
Many people have an image of the SUV as being an expensive option in comparison to a normal saloon or hatchback. Increasingly, this is no longer the case due to the advent of car-based crossover SUVs. As an entry into the world of SUV ownership, the Dacia Duster is cheap and cheerful and can be ordered with a fuel efficient 1.5 litre diesel engine. A little further up the food chain is the cleverly packaged and roomy Citroen C4 Cactus. Many SUVs in this part of the market will be bought without four wheel drive, due to the fact that their owners have no intention of ever taking them off road. Instead they tend to be used as practical transport for families, with the added appeal of imposing looks and a high up driving position.
2. Off-road ability
For a lot of SUV drivers, four-wheel drive is an unnecessary luxury. It adds to the purchase price and will increase the running costs of the car. However, if a capable 4x4 is what is required, then there are plenty of interesting options on the market. All of Land Rover's products are highly effective off-roaders, but surprisingly capable options are available from lower priced marques. Four wheel drive versions of the Skoda Yeti are perfectly competent in the rough stuff, for example. Like me, If you live in Dubai, and you want to drive into the desert for the weekends, then you'll definitely have to consider how safe and how well the car can withstand driving in the sand.
3. Luxury
Given the origins of the SUV as upmarket transport for owners of country estates, no guide to buying an SUV would be complete without considering the luxurious nature of many of these vehicles. The contemporary Range Rover still sets a benchmark for well-appointed, comfortable interiors. However, there are now plenty of other luxury marques offering competing products. Among these, the F-Pace from Land Rover's sister company, Jaguar, offers a sporty, refined package that is still a great off-roader. There are also plenty of options from Mercedes-Benz, BMW and Audi that can give the Brits a run for their money.
About the Author
Jack Newton is a Dubai Property Specialist and a serial Used Car Buyer in Dubai. He loves to travel and is an Amateur Photographer photographer. Visit: https://yzermotors.com
Submitted on: 2017-01-27 01:52:16