When one is buying a four wheel drive it is important to consider the following:
1. Do you need a 4×4?
It is wise to consider if you really need a four wheel drive vehicle. It is best suited for those who live on farms and they are mostly commended to those who need to cross muddy grounds or those travelling on bumpy roads.
However, for those who need a car for the school run, for simply driving around or for safety during winter there are other choices to consider. Cost effective autos like offerings from Subaru, Skoda, or Audi may suit your needs better.
Four wheel drive, offroad models from these manufacturers have high ground clearance and additional underbody protection that helps minimise the effects of tough conditions and rough surfaces.
2. The price.
Most four wheel drives are vastly more expensive than an estate or saloon car. The insurance, fuel consumption, servicing and spare parts are again more expensive than those of the regular cars. If one does not choose wisely, running costs can be very high.
On a positive note depreciation for premium, four wheel drive vehicles tends to be less severe than their saloon counterparts.
3. Fuel cost.
It is preferable to use a diesel four wheel drive to cut down on fuel cost.
Present diesels are mostly advanced and have plenty of pulling power which is good for towing. Petrol engine technology has improved alot over recent years. Some manufacturers are using small capacity, turbocharged units in smaller 4×4 vehicles resulting in good performance and efficiency.
4. Reliability.
4×4 vehicles generally tend to have morse reliability records than saloons and hatchbacks. We won’t mention any car brands in this article, however a simple internet search for ‘car reliability surveys’ will deliver interesting results. Suffice to say premium/expensive brands do not always equate to a reliable vehicle.
It is always worth to consider a brand that offers a substantial warranty.
5. Practicality.
Not all four wheel drives are as practical as you might think. Most of them have tools under the vehicles floor that results in a small interior space. Space in the boot may be limited and high ground clearance can make it difficult for some to load the boot.
6. Comfort ability and style
Most current four wheel drive vehicles are designed to luxurious yet fun, family cars. The Range Rover is the best example; many have bought it for its sporty road handling and striking style. However, choosing a 4×4 based on style can be very expensive . Parking sensors, roof nails and self leveling are sensible factors to consider while choosing but can easily add alot to the overall cost of the vehicle.
7. Consumption of gas.
They are known to be the auto models with the highest fuel consumption. Therefore, manufacturers are trying to develop 4x4s with increased efficiency and reduced CO2 emissions.
8. Off Road Ability.
Not all 4x4s have the same off-roading ability. The Land Rover Defender is far from being a luxury vehicle but it has fantastic off-roading ability. All the terrain tyres are useful but regular tyres are useless in tough conditions. Some of the best off- roads include: Land Rover, Land Cruiser and Jeep. Carefully consider what you will use the vehicle for and choose wisely.
9. When it stops being a 4×4.
There is an increasing trend towards off-road style cars that are only two wheel drive. Some of their benefits remain such as better view of the ground and enhanced seating position. Moreover, the buying price is normally lower and fuel cost is lower. Just don’t try to take it off road.
10. On road ability.
Since they are used mostly on roads, it is useful to consider how the off roaders behave on the road. If good handling is important to you a saloon, estate, or crossover may be a better match for you.
4×4 vehicles are very big on the road. Additional driver training may be necessary to become comfortable driving on all road types. It may be worth seeking out some form of driving lessons or an Intensive Driving Courses Glasgow to help you to become proficient.
