Ready to upgrade to an all-wheel drive car?

If you’ve only owned hatchbacks before, nothing compares to the thrill of getting behind the wheel of an SUV. Whether you’ve got your eyes on a compact Suzuki Jimny, a sporty Land Rover or a powerful Porsche Cayenne, there’s an SUV for almost every type of driver.

But before you get carried away looking at the shiniest model, think of the practicalities. Here’s how to choose a 4×4 that suits your budget, lifestyle, and needs.

Why is a 4×4 essential for country living?

If you live in a rural area, you’ll know the challenges of driving through all four seasons. From narrow, muddy tracks to farm vehicles and unreliable road conditions, the countryside puts high demands on drivers.

Modern 4x4s add comfort and reliability that other cars can’t compete with. Along with a higher ride, giving you better clearance over bumps, rivets and potholes, these vehicles boast all-wheel drive power. That means you’ll be far less likely to get stuck in the mud.

You can confidently drive on the grass, through deep puddles, and dirty roads . What’s more, 4x4s are no longer just rugged workhorses – they offer all the same luxuries and comforts as most top-spec cars.

Should I buy new or used?

Choosing between a new or second-hand 4×4 is ultimately a personal decision. You need to consider various factors, including your lifestyle, and compare the pros and cons of each.

Used 4x4s are typically more affordable, but they might have some cosmetic flaws. They’re also less likely to depreciate, meaning you could get most of your money back when you sell them. It’s worth carrying out an MOT history check to reveal past maintenance and identify recurring issues.

New 4x4s are a more luxurious choice. They won’t need their first MOT for three years, and most come with a generous warranty, allowing you to enjoy thousands of miles of worry-free driving. They’re more expensive, but they come with the latest and most impressive features.

Key features to look out for

Here are some of the most sought-after and worthwhile features to have on a 4×4:

• Ground clearance: A higher ride makes for a smooth, safe drive.
• Low–range gearbox: For serious offroad drivers, this enables slower speeds with maximum torque for steep, slippery terrain.
• Towing capacity: Need to tow a horsebox or trailer? Look for powerful vehicles with strong towing reliability.

Remember to consider the environment too. There are more and more electric SUV’s on the market now, which could be handy if you live near the Ultra Low Emission Zone in London.

Budgeting for running costs

Finally, it’s no secret that all-wheel drive vehicles can be more costly to keep on the roads than compact hatchbacks. With more complex technical features and larger, more powerful components, repair bills easily top hundreds of pounds if something goes wrong. You also need to think about:

• Insurance: SUV owners also face higher costs for insurance premiums, since many of these vehicles are more valuable or associated with an increased level of risk.

• Fuel: Fuel consumption is typically higher, too, so you might need to choose your model wisely. Some diesel 4x4s offer fuel economy of 50mpg or more, but you should expect regular top-ups if you have a powerful petrol engine.
• Tyres: Don’t forget that driving off-road comes with greater demands on your tyres. Achieving the perfect balance of grip, durability, and wet weather performance comes at a high price, especially for larger wheels!

Ready to find your dream 4×4 today? With these points considered, you’ll be on your way to choosing a reliable vehicle that suits you perfectly!

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