3 reasons why you should jump on the SUV bandwagon
Australians seem to be showing nothing but love for the almighty SUV as of late.
An August report from the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) reveals a startling rise in SUV sales. In that month, 90,705 passenger vehicles were purchased across the country, many of which were SUVs.
FCAI Chief Executive Tony Weber pointed out the soaring popularity of SUVs over the last year, indicating that sales of the vehicles have jumped 19.4 per cent from August last year. A significant part of that growth came from the small SUV market, where sales increased by 51.3 per cent.
Perhaps you've been thinking about a new vehicle to put a car loan towards. Maybe you're considering a sports sedan or a spacious new station wagon. Here are a few reasons why the SUV is deserving of your attention:
Sports utility
Sports Utility Vehicle - it's all in the name. SUVs combine the ferocious power of a sports vehicle with practical utility that matches or even beats vehicles like station wagons. For instance, the 2016 Land Rover Range Rover Sport boasts a 5-litre V8 supercharged engine that can take it from 0 to 100 km/hr in 5.3 seconds and give many sports-tuned cars a true run for their money.
Simultaneously, SUVs won't force your customers to squeeze in the back like caged rabbits as they would have to in many sporty coupes or sedans. SUVs still have the spaciousness for your passengers to sit comfortably, while some even offer a third row of seats.
Cargo
SUVs have both wide and tall cargo spaces. This means that if you have large equipment to move about or pets that you want in the back, a Sports Utility Vehicle should do the trick. Autobytel identifies the 2015 Chevrolet Suburban as a good example, with the ability to hold a whopping 11.9 cubic metres of cargo.
It feels right
At the end of the day, one part of the SUV's greatest appeal is simply the sense of empowerment and protection it gives. Perhaps it's the combination of its wide girth, powerful engine and tall height that allows you to literally look down on passing cars.
A publication from the Center for Transportation Analysis in the Oak Ridge National Laboratory shows that SUV drivers describe feeling more protected and in control when inside their vehicle.
Need a little more convincing? Do some research on different models and see if a new SUV is worthy of your new car finance.
