Guidelines for buying a sports utility vehicle (SUV)

Hello Paul, I have been driving a saloon car for five years and I have decided to transition to a more comfortable, new sports utility vehicle. I would appreciate your advice and guidance on how to make the right choice. Moses

Hello Moses, choosing the right SUV can be overwhelming due to the variety of options available in the market, each with unique attributes and features. To make an informed decision, consider your specific needs and preferences. 

Start by assessing your space requirements, which will depend on your family size and work demands, particularly if you need to transport people or cargo. Some SUVs seat five passengers with two rows and ample cargo space, while others accommodate seven with three rows and flexible seating arrangements. If you have a larger family of eight or more, you might consider an eight or 10-seater luxury transporter van. 

It is crucial to identify the primary use of the SUV and your typical travel destinations. For instance, if you will be driving to places such as Mbarara in western Uganda, look for a vehicle that is highway-friendly, comfortable and stable at high speeds, equipped with electronic stability control and modern safety features such as multiple airbags. On the other hand, if your work involves off-road driving for farming or mining projects, a rugged 4WD with high ground clearance is essential. 

The terrain you plan to navigate significantly influences your choice. Consider your desire for comfort and luxury, which may include factors such as upholstery quality, amenities, styling, and entertainment features. Fuel efficiency and reliability are also critical. If you are budget-conscious, fuel economy could be a deciding factor, influencing your choice between a diesel or petrol engine, depending on how much mileage you expect to achieve per litre of fuel. Additionally, the availability of maintenance facilities and spare parts is important for ensuring the reliability of your SUV. 

It is beneficial to evaluate the versatility, practicality, and safety of your SUV. Understand the differences between traditional truck-platform SUVs, such as the Isuzu mu-X or Ford Everest, and car-based SUVs such as the Honda CR-V, Nissan X-Trail or KIA Sportage. Carefully consider how well the SUV fits your lifestyle needs. 

A good SUV should provide comfortable driving whether you are in the city, on a country road, heading to the office, or going for a weekend picnic. Safety features are paramount, including passenger protection systems and driver aids such as electronic stability programmes and handling assistance. 

Additionally, consider environmentally friendly technologies that meet low emissions standards; petrol engines should include a catalytic converter, while diesel engines ought to have a diesel particulate filter. 

I hope this information helps you in making your decision.