How to Find the Best SUV at the Used Car Dealership?

Posted Monday, Jul 31, 2023

There may be many reasons why you choose to buy an SUV. Maybe you are looking for a second car, or maybe you want something with more power and comfort for those long weekend trips. You will get to choose from a large selection of SUVs at the used car dealership.

Choosing the Best SUV

You may be familiar with the term ‘Sports Utility Vehicle,’ but how do you go about buying one? For those who are in the market for their first SUV, choosing the best SUV is going to be quite the challenge. That being said, there are some factors to consider during your search for that perfect SUV which should make the process easier and a lot less painful (financially speaking!).

SUV vs. 4x4 vs. Crossover: What’s the Difference?

That is an excellent question! While the names are commonly used, all three are distinct vehicles with distinct characteristics. Crossovers are smaller built as compared to SUVs since it is constructed on the same structure as hatchbacks. On the other hand, SUVs are typically built on a bigger framework. As a result, while they may appear to be the same vehicle, a crossover may be less competent when pulling big loads or traveling off-road as compared to the SUV.

A 4x4 is a common term for an automobile with four-wheel drive; the engine powers all the wheels, making them ideal for difficult terrain and pulling hefty loads. So, you could say that many SUVs are 4x4 (technically speaking). Now, it is important to point out that while some SUVs are 4x4, mainly because they are four-wheel drive, not all SUVs have this feature.

Two-Wheel vs. All-Wheel Drive: What’s the Difference?

So, now that we’ve got that out of the way, how about the difference between a two-wheel and all-wheel drive because there is a difference. The specifics of how AWD works vary depending on the vehicle. Many power the front wheels until the system detects slippage, which will transfer some of the power to the back wheels (if traction is required).

Some systems, such as Subaru's, always transmit power to all four wheels. Most drivers should be fine with either type, but even with AWD, a specific pair of winter tires will be required. In case you were wondering, all-wheel drive (AWD) is not standard on all SUVs, and there are a few smaller crossovers that don't have AWD at all.

As the name implies, two-wheel drive (2WD) powers one set of wheels, usually the front ones (FWD stands for front-wheel drive). That is all that many drivers require, and it will also be more fuel efficient. However, most SUVs with 2WD only provide it on the cheapest trim levels; thus, upgrading to additional amenities also implies upgrading to all-wheel drive. Duh!

How Much Four-Wheeling Will You Do?

This is a valid question. For instance, are you looking for quick day drips that will get you decent shots to share on Instagram, or do you live for spending the weekends in the great outdoors? There’s a difference because if you’re from the first category, you’ll need a prettier ride, like a crossover, that’s way more photogenic. However, if you fall in the second category, then you will want something with more utility because you’re not going to be BS-ing around.

On a simple system, you'll often find settings for two-wheel drive (2WD), four-wheel drive (4WD), and four-wheel low (4Low). Since these can be damaged if driven on hard surfaces like conventional roads, the latter two are only for off-road or very slippery conditions. Only vehicles with a 4-Auto transmission may drive in 4WD on asphalt. It should be noted that 4-Auto is only available on higher-priced model levels.

On average, a 4WD SUV will cost more and consume more gasoline than a comparable AWD SUV. Many drivers overestimate their requirements. Unless your cabin or campground is genuinely off the main road, requiring a lot of mud-bogging to reach it, AWD should do.

The Price Factor

This should be number one on the list. Easily the most important factor to consider when buying an SUV. Don't just glance at one price and decide to buy something without knowing what you're getting yourself into.

Mostly, a used automobile may provide better value for money than a new car because new cars incur additional expenditures such as taxes and registration fees. Furthermore, new automobiles depreciate fast once they are purchased.

So, if you have one that will not lose value over time and is of high quality, used automobiles may be the best alternative. Thanks to online resources such as Iron Cars Inc., you can now select from a variety of SUV times, trims, and models to find the perfect one for you.

Also, for the price, you will want to make sure that you get the cargo capacity and seating capacity that you need for the money you will be paying. Again, this comes down to personal preference and what kind of SUV you are looking for. For example, will you require a lot of space for kids or friends and plenty of cargo capacity? Or will you be fine with the standard variety?

Iron Cars Inc. has a huge selection of the best SUV brands and models you are going to find under one roof. Regardless of what you are looking for, the large inventory of SUVs makes it easier to find the perfect SUV for your needs. The platform is the premier used car dealership in Florida, with every vehicle being checked by ASE-certified mechanics to ensure you get the best deal.