Which is the best 4×4 jeep for Off Road Adventures?

Anyone who at least once has tried to buy used 4×4 jeep, also called off road jeep, will admit that it was indeed very exhausting and enduring process, despite of the fact that the offer is wide enough. Those who don’t have their own 4×4 jeep yet, but want to participate in off road adventures and buy an off road vehicle, are about to experience this exciting procedure! To ease this process at least a little, we will analyze here the offer of the available used off road jeeps and try to answer to the eternal question – “which is better?”

How to choose 4×4 jeep for off road adventures?

To understand in which direction to look, everyone should answer himself to few questions about his “perfect 4×4 jeep”. In other words – to determine what are the criterions of choice.

1. Price. It usually is one of the most important matters when you are about to buy something, including a 4×4 jeep for off road adventures!

2. Use. Where are you going to drive with your 4×4 jeep, what roads are you going to take and how often? Whether those are going to be activities connected with your work or you are going to participate in off road adventures and expeditions? How much space do you need in your 4×4 off road jeep? Is it going to be the only vehicle or the second or third in your car park? The right choice will help you to achieve your goals faster and easier.

3. Reliability. It is very important to accomplish everything you have planned in time and reach the target. And the reliability is even more important, if you need to cover bigger distances or go on off road adventures.

4. Fuel consumption. Important as always – off road adventures are not exception!

5. Engine power and type of gear box. Of course people can get used to anything, but the pleasure is bigger if you drive a 4×4 off road jeep you like! And if you plan to participate in many off road adventures, it is better to choose the manual transmission.

6. Equipment and level of comfort. It is nice to feel good inside your 4×4 off road jeep, no matter what the road conditions are and how often you participate in off road adventures!

7. Availability of spare parts. It is logical that it is easier and cheaper to buy new or used spare parts for the most popular models.

8. Personnel and subjective reasons to love specific type or model. If such reasons exist, all rational considerations are pushed aside!

Our friend – common sense – tells us that it would be wiser to start with the second point of the list – what am I going to do with my 4×4 jeep? Then go back to the first, continue with the third and all other points. 

Every 4×4 off road jeep has its own mission

Here we are going to identify the most popular ways of use of off road jeeps and will look at the offer of used and not very expensive off road jeeps. Not talking about the “City. Highway. Asphalt.” We’ll start with the following:

If you have to cover long distances every day on roads of different covering and on country roads:

– that could be a car for a person who is working in the countryside or lives far from the city. In this case most likely we are not talking about off road adventures, but all-wheel drive capability could be useful in winter and also in spring or autumn. The car should be reliable, comfortable and economic. If there are no passengers, the model with short wheelbase (3 doors) would be more economic. But with long wheelbase you would feel less the undulations – car wouldn’t “bounce” so much. The most reliable but also most expensive choice would be Toyota Land Cruiser 90 or 120 series. 

Another good choice is Mitsubishi Pajero or Mitsubishi Pajero Sport – it has better steerability, but the running gear’s lifetime is short and the fuel consumption is high. You can also choose Opel Frontera or Monterey, Jeep Grand Cherokee or Land Rover Discovery of the third generation or younger. A good alternative could also be the powerful korean Hyundai Terracan, though its production has been ceased. You can also pick some “parquet jeep” for your everyday tours on country roads, but there are no reliable data on the endurance of running gear that would be constantly subjected to the bumpy Latvian roads.

For short everyday journeys on roads of different covering and on country roads:

– in this case it could be either work in the specific region or everyday journeys from home to store in countryside. If you use your 4×4 jeep mostly for these purposes, it wouldn’t be wise to use it during the off road adventures. In this case the reliability and comfort as well as fuel economy could have less importance than in cases you need to drive 100 or more kilometers per day. For such short journeys you can also choose the models mentioned above, but here the vehicle could be older or could have run more.

It is worth to look at some American productions or some rarer off road jeeps from Daihatsu, Ford, Nissan, Suzuki. A friend of mine after a long search just bought 4×4 Range Rover 1998 model. This jeep looks impressive and drives well, but you must have very strong nerves – just to be able to pay no attention to all the blinking lights on the gauge-board and other “phenomenons” connected with electricity. Some small disorders are a common thing for older Land Rovers.

For long journeys on the roads of different covering; off road driving; away from civilization:

– now we are talking about off road adventures and expeditions. Maybe sometimes some fishermen or hunters have a necessity for such use of the 4×4 off road jeep. In this case you need a big and reliable vehicle that is good enough on the road and also off road.

Check out on the internet or in the magazines what the choices of globe-trotters are when they go on their round-the-world tours and off road adventures – and you’ll get the picture! Mostly they drive Toyota Land Cruiser 70, 80 or 100 series, Nissan Patrol, Land Rover Defender.

Nissan Patrol and Toyota Land Cruiser are almost the only off road jeeps that can be found and bought with the original mechanical winch – which is a very important thing during off road adventures! I am not a big fan of mechanical winches, but if this “extra” is provided in the construction – it gives sense of safety during off road adventures without additional expenses.

For rare, short journeys on the roads of different covering; off road driving; away from civilization:

– this is more the case of fishermen, hunters or forest or agricultural laborers. Also could sometimes be useful for some rare off road adventures. Here neither the comfort nor fuel economy has any importance. And nobody would care for the looks of the vehicle or existence of roadworthiness test, if you drive on the “right” roads.

Important is to get to the right place in the right time and the ability to transport goods or people. In this case you need 4×4 off road jeep with good passability. Any of the old off road jeeps will do in this case. And the simpler it is and higher its frame is the better. But you must pay attention to the condition of the frame – how rusty it is. The best choices: UAZ, Land Rover Defender, Toyota Land Cruiser 70 series, first and second generation Mitsubishi Pajero, Nissan Patrol. 

For accomplishment of specific works – trailer towing, cargo transportation, etc.:

– in this case the character of each labor must be taken into consideration. For trailer towing it is important to have powerful motor but in case of cargo transportations – space that is big enough. Significant section in the range of the off road jeeps is pickup trucks – but that’s another story.

What you must know when you buy 4×4 jeep for off road adventures?

As you have understood from the above mentioned there is no such thing as the best 4×4 off road jeep. There are those who suit better for each person and for each specific occasion, whether it is connected with your work on the countryside or you just want to participate in off road adventures. But there are some not very good news that refers to absolutely everyone.

The first: if the 4×4 jeep is in good condition, no one would sell it, but would continue to drive himself. If it is on sale, then probably it has some technical problems. If you know where exactly the problem is, you just have to find out the costs and then evaluate if it is worth to buy such vehicle.

And the second – that results from the first – there are many offers in the market, but there are very few good vehicles for a good and reasonable price. That is why the purchase of the 4×4 jeep is a long and exhausting process!

Furthermore – if you see that the owner has been careless to the exterior of his 4×4 jeep (the body is scratched and you can see it’s been hit, it is dirty and “worn-out” inside), you can be almost sure that the same attitude he had towards engine and running gear. For that reason it’s better to avoid buying such vehicle.

Whether we like it or not, if we drive continuously in off road conditions and participate in many of road adventures, not only the running gear wears out faster, but also the vehicle in general. And different rear defects show up with time – cracks in the body, problems with electronics and others. From such purchases you should also avoid. 

Some more advices: when you buy your 4×4 off road jeep, pay attention to the things that could ask some immediate investments, like, if the tires are worn-out you must consider the purchase of new ones. Then of course check whether the window glasses or lumps aren’t cracked. Also the lack of CD player would require additional expenses.

When talking about the technical condition of the vehicle it is of course better to consult with the professional, especially if you buy your first 4×4 jeep, because it is not the same as buying the city car. If you already have experience with off road jeeps, you can count on your own judgment about the vehicle.

Of course after you have had a test drive – on different roads, trying different gears and the capability of all-wheel drive. Don’t forget to check the engine, the running gear and the body – how rusty the vehicle is. Also pay attention to the clutch, gear box and to thousands of other important details. 

Usually when somebody asks my advice about the purchase and the choice of the best 4×4 off road jeep, I give a simple answer – the one who has run less! The year of production has little importance – what does matter is the condition of the vehicle. If it is good, you’ll be able to drive safely and with no worries for a longer period!

News Source: http://4x4tourism.com

What Is the Best SUV for the Money?

There's no simple answer to the question "What is the best SUV?" The reason is that the question isn't specific--the best for what, exactly? Even "What is the best suv for the money" is too general. This article will cover answers to different takes on the basic question of the best SUV.

What Is the Best SUV to Buy for High Resale Value?

With gas prices in a constant state of flux, what is the best SUV to buy to ensure high resale value is a common concern. The Land Rover Range Rover is one option. Although Land Rover has been wholly-owned by the Indian conglomerate Tata since 2008, this has done little to negatively impact the resale value of Land Rover vehicles, especially the top-line Range Rover. Thanks to strong lease programs offered by Land Rover Capital and Chase Bank, high residual values have been maintained for clients who purchase and lease. To get an idea of the high resale value of the Range Rover, check out the classified ads available on CarsDirect. 

Not only can you request quotes on new Range Rovers, you can also search used cars available for sale by dealerships and private parties alike. This guide will help you understand why it is important to purchase an SUV with high resale value. Although the Range Rover holds its value very well, reading this article can also help you choose a less expensive SUV that offers high resale value.

Why High Resale Value Is Important

Whether you choose to lease a new car, finance a new car or finance a used car, resale value is an important way to calculate the overall value represented by a transaction. In the long run, a high resale value can save money whether you purchase or lease. For example, on a lease, the projected resale or residual value is a key component in calculating a monthly payment. Monthly lease payments are based on the difference between the selling price of the vehicle (the capitalized cost) and the value of the vehicle at the end of the lease (the residual value). You pay only this difference, divided by the length of you lease, plus any applicable finance charges and other lease fees.

For example, if a Range Rover sells for $79,275 and has a 60% residual value on a 36 month lease, you are paying the difference between the selling price of $79,275 and the residual value of $47,565, or a total of $31,710 to lease the vehicle (plus finance charges). If you plan to switch vehicles regularly, a high residual can get you a low lease payment and allow you to drive a new vehicle more frequently. If you finance vehicles, resale value is less important, but it can still be a major factor if you plan to trade your vehicle in. If your vehicle has poor resale value, there may be too much negative equity to secure financing.

High resale value is something that few buyers consider when shopping for an SUV. However, by choosing a luxury SUV like a Range Rover, you can feel comfortable knowing that it will be easier to trade-in your vehicle and have a lower monthly payment. The residual values used to calculate leases change on a monthly basis, so be sure to contact a local dealership for this information. However, it is important to make sure high resale value is not your sole reason for choosing a particular SUV, as the SUVs with the best resale values may not fit every buyer's needs or budget.

What Is the Best SUV to Buy for Fast Acceleration?

If you are looking for a utility vehicle with some of the best acceleration you can find, you may want an idea of what is the best SUV to buy. SUV's are typically known for having high traction levels and being able to get you through the rougher, off-road terrain at levels that any sedan or compact car would never be able to. However, fast acceleration and overall speed is becoming a larger interest among SUV enthusiasts. With this in mind, here are some of the fastest SUV's available today to keep in mind while considering the best overall choice: 

Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8
This SUV comes with a V8 Hemi that puts out around 420 horsepower. The SRT8 Grand Cherokee will go from 0-60 mph in 4.8 seconds and run the 1/4 mile in 13.5 seconds from a standing start. These times are fast enough to stack up against cars such as the Jaguar XF or Audi S8; making it a true high performance sport-SUV. 

 
Porsche Cayenne
The Porsche Cayenne can go 0-60 mph in roughly 5 seconds flat and do the 1/4 mile in 13.6 seconds from a standstill. This vehicle has power output that is upwards of 550 horsepower depending on which engine and trim you decide to choose. Regardless, the Porsche Cayenne lives up to it's name and is a very fast SUV. 

 
BMW X6 xDrive50i
The BMW X6 is a new, sport-tuned version of the BMW X5. When purchased in this trim level, the X6 comes with a twin-turbo 5.0-Liter V8 engine that puts out around 400 horsepower. The X6 has car-like handling and goes 0-60 mph in roughly 5.3 seconds, making it very agile from a dead stop. 

Mercedes Benz ML63 AMG
The Mercedes Benz ML63 AMG is a finely tuned sport utility vehicle with luxurious features and great performance. The ML 63 AMG comes with a 6.2-Liter V8 engine that produces 510 horsepower and 465 lb-ft. of torque that made it the most powerful naturally aspirated (non-turbocharged) SUV in the world. From a standstill, it can go from 0-60 mph in roughly 4.7 seconds with a 1/4 mile of 13 seconds flat @ 108 mph as well. 

Mercedes Benz G55 AMG
This SUV put down a 0-60 mph time of just 4.7 seconds and did the 1/4 mile in roughly 13.2 seconds to put it on the list. This car comes with a 5.4-Liter supercharged V8 that puts out about 493 horsepower and 516 lb-ft. of torque as well. 

Infiniti FX50
The Infiniti FX50 is a larger version of Infiniti's FX35/40 SUV with a 390 horsepower engine that propels the vehicle from 0-60 mph in 5.2 seconds and allows it to run the 1/4 mile in 13.7 seconds @ 102 mph from a standstill. This allows the vehicle to compete with the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X in regards to acceleration.


When it comes to acceleration, these SUV's all rank among the best. The Mercedes Benz ML63 AMG is the overall fastest accelerating vehicle on the list in regards to 0-60 mph and 1/4 mile times. However, these six SUV's are all within about a second of one another, making them the fastest SUV's available.

What Is the Best SUV to Buy for Low Insurance?

People often wonder about the best SUV to buy for low insurance. This is because there are a lot of SUV models in the market that are very safe; hence they require a low insurance. The answer to the question, "What is the best SUV to buy for low insurance?" is the 2010 Toyota Land Cruiser. 

The 2010 Toyota Land Cruiser is considered to be the best SUV to buy for low insurance. The SUV is held in such high regard because its safety features are much better than any other SUV in its class. The 2010 Toyota Land Cruiser is designed to offer optimum safety to its passengers and drivers. Here is what makes it so safe and thereby the best SUV to buy for low insurance.

Anti-Lock Brakes
The 2010 Toyota Land Cruiser is equipped with a set of 4-wheel anti-lock brakes. These brakes are designed to prevent the wheel from being locked up by the brake pressure's automatic modulation. This comes in handy in a case when the 2010 Toyota Land Cruiser has to be stopped in the case of an emergency. Its main function is to make sure the wheels do not get locked. It also helps the driver in maintaining full control over the steering. Another function it serves is it helps in stopping the SUV at the shortest possible distance in an emergency.

Electronic Stability Control
The 2010 Toyota Land Cruiser is also equipped with an Electronic Stability Control (ESC). It is a computerized technology designed to help with the improvement of stability in the latest Land Cruiser. It does so by simply detecting and minimizing the skids. The moment the ESC notices a loss of steering control, the system itself applies the brakes in a way the vehicle is steered the way it is intended by the driver. It is very important in case of emergency stops or while driving on the slippery roads. 

Airbags
The presence of airbags is one of the factors that contribute to the security of the people driving and traveling in the SUV. The 2010 Toyota Land Cruiser has a number of air bags meant for every person sitting in it. In the front side, the SUV has two impact air bags, one for the driver and one for the passenger. The airbags meant for the driver and the passenger is mounted on the seat. There also is a knee air bag for the driver and the passenger sitting in the front seat. The 2010 Toyota Land Cruiser also comes with a rear side-impact airbag designed to cushion all sorts of blows coming from the rear side of the SUV. For additional safety, there also is an overhead impact airbag that has been designed to offer proper cushioning to the people sitting in the 1st, 2nd and 3rd row, from all sorts of impacts. These airbags ensure the optimum safety of the passengers.

What Is the Best SUV to Buy for Driver Comfort?

When you are shopping for the best SUV to buy there are a variety of considerations that must be accounted for. For many drivers who spend hours in their SUV on a daily basis, having a vehicle that is very comfortable is a paramount concern. Depending on your budget, there are a variety of SUVs to consider that provide good foot space and comfortable seats. As you may have a set budget in mind, this guide discusses the best SUVs in three price ranges: entry-level SUVs, upscale SUVs and luxury SUVs. When you are prepared to request pricing information on an SUV, be certain to use a service like CarsDirect to get competitive quotes on vehicles for sale in your area. CarsDirect will put you in touch with dealerships that can offer quick quotes on new and used vehicles.

Best Entry-Level SUV for Driver Comfort: Chevrolet Tahoe

The Chevrolet Tahoe offers an entry-level body-on-frame SUV for drivers who require three rows of seating. For additional driver comfort, there is an available power adjustable driver's seat with power lumbar support. All Tahoes have dual-zone climate control and a tilt steering wheel with a quick release. Even though the Tahoe can seat up to eight passengers comfortably, the driver has plenty of room and good foot space in front. Most Tahoes include a center console that provides separation from the front passenger and includes plenty of room to keep commonly-used CDs and accessories at hand. A new Tahoe starts in the mid $30,000 range depending on equipment, but there are many great examples of used Tahoes on the market. 

Best Upscale SUV for Driver Comfort: Saab 9-7x

While the Saab 9-7x is directly related to the less comfortable Chevrolet Trailblazer and GMC Envoy, the Saab 9-7x takes General Motors's basic five-passenger SUV platform and brings it upscale through the use of soft-touch materials throughout the cabin, a lower ride height for easier driver step-in and the use of a more premium leather than in its more basic relatives. The Saab 9-7x offers a standard power driver's seat with lumbar adjustment and green-faced gauges that are comfortable to read in all conditions. While the rear seat of the 9-7x is very small, the driver has ample legroom and an easily-adjustable tilt steering wheel. Automatic dual-zone climate control is also within easy reach from the driver's seat, ensuring that it is always the right temperature in the cabin. The Saab 9-7x was discontinued after the 2009 model year, but there are some great used examples available on CarsDirect. 

Best Luxury SUV for Driver Comfort: Mercedes-Benz GL-Class

Introduced for the 2007 model year, the Mercedes-Benz GL-Class offers an array of driver comfort options, like heated seats, power steering wheel adjustments and voice-controlled navigation. Whether you elect the GL350 BlueTEC diesel, GL450 or GL550, you will get an impressive array of standard features including a standard full-time all-wheel drive system. A GL may also be equipped with power folding rear seats and a backup camera to keep the driver as comfortable as possible. When you are looking for a new SUV in the $60,000 to $80,000 range, it is hard to beat the overall value offered by the GL. If you are shopping used, a certified pre-owned GL-Class carries a warranty until 100,000 total vehicle miles.

What Is the Best SUV to Buy for a Good Warranty?

When you are shopping for the best SUV to buy, the factory warranty coverage provided by the manufacturer is an important consideration to focus on. Whether you drive your vehicle infrequently or tens of thousands of miles per year, good factory warranty coverage can provide peace of mind throughout your term of ownership. Most manufacturers offer good warranty coverage so that they may be competitive with other brands and so they can prove that their vehicles are the most reliable on the road.

Case in point: many manufacturers instituted long powertrain warranties because it forced them to build better vehicles. Simply put, having bad powertrains covered by 100,000 mile warranties could quickly bankrupt a manufacturer. If you are purchasing an SUV new, just be sure to review the warranty information listed on each manufacturer's website before making a buying decision. If you are preparing to purchase a used SUV, ask the dealership about extended warranty coverage that might be available. You may also be able to make a bulk purchase of warranty coverage from a third-party warranty company. Just make sure that the coverage is equivalent to that offered by the factory warranty.

The Best SUV for a Good Warranty 

 

The best sport utility vehicle to purchase for a good warranty is the Hyundai Santa Fe. The Santa Fe is an excellent mid-sized SUV that has improved significantly since it was first introduced for the 2000 model year. In its current form, the Santa Fe offers three rows of comfortable seating and an array of interior amenities, including available leather seating surfaces and touch-screen navigation. Even more impressive than the options available on the Santa Fe and its attractive starting price in the low $20,000 range is the comprehensive and largely-transferable warranty offered by Hyundai.

The Hyundai Warranty

The central component of Hyundai's warranty coverage is the 10 year or 100,000 mile powertrain warranty that covers most engine and transmission/transaxle components that are defective from the factory. This portion of the warranty is not transferable for vehicles from the 2004 model year onward. Older vehicles from the 1999 to 2003 model years have a 10 year/100,000 mile powertrain warranty that is transferable to immediate family members. 

Even if you purchase your Hyundai Santa Fe used, you will still get a comprehensive five year or 60,000 mile warranty on most factory-installed components that are found to be faulty. However, there are a few exceptions to the transferable bumper-to-bumper warranty, including a three year or 36,000 mile restriction on radio and audio system replacement, a three year or 36,000 mile limit on paint coverage, a three year and unlimited mileage restriction on the battery and a one year or 12,000 mile adjustment warranty that also includes coverage for wear items like brake pads, clutches and wiper blades.
Some final key components of Hyundai's SUV warranty include a seven-year anti-perforation warranty that protects against rust-through and five-years/unlimited miles of roadside assistance from Hyundai. All told, the good warranty provided by Hyundai to the first and subsequent owners of a Santa Fe mean you can purchase with confidence and drive knowing that your vehicle is backed by the best warranty in the industry.

What Is the Best SUV to Buy for Passenger Space?

People often look for the best SUV to buy judging on certain specific criteria. Most people judge a certain SUV according to the passenger space it offers. There are a lot of SUV options that offer similar passenger space. Hence, there always is a debate as to what is the best SUV to buy for passenger space. Well, here is a look at the absolute best SUV according to the passenger space it offers.

The 2010 Chevrolet Suburban 1500

When it comes to offering the passenger space, the 2010 Chevrolet Suburban 1500 is right at the top. It offers a spacious seating capacity to accommodate a total of 9 people leaving enough space for cargo. In fact, even with a total of 9 people the inside of the SUV does not feel cramped. The seats are designed in a way to offer full space to the nine people sitting inside the 2010 Chevrolet Suburban 1500 without a discomfort of any sort.

The Front Space
The Front Space of the 2010 Chevrolet Suburban 1500 is designed for the driver and a fellow passenger. The 2010 Suburban 1500's front area has a leg room of 41.3 inches. The headroom offered by the front space is 41.1 inches. The hip room of 64.4 inches offered by the 2010 Chevrolet Suburban 1500 is also really good and so is the shoulder room of 65.3 inches.

The Rear Space
The 2010 Chevrolet Suburban 1500 has an extremely good rear space. The space offers a rear legroom which is more than enough at a total of 39.5 inches. Also, the rear headroom is good enough at 38.5 inches. When it comes to the shoulder room the rear space of the 2010 Chevrolet Suburban 1500 does not disappoint at all. The shoulder room is a total of 65.2 inches. 

The Third Row
The 2010 Chevrolet Suburban 1500 has an additional third row with a removable 50-50 split-bench. The bench offers a comfortable and spacious seating. The t hird row has a really spacious leg room at a total of 34.9 inches. The headroom offered in the third row of the 2010 Chevrolet Suburban 1500 is also really good at a total of 38.1 inches. The third row is also designed to offer a hip room of 49.4 inches. Also, the shoulder room offered in the third row of the 2010 Chevrolet Suburban 1500 is pretty good at 64.7 inches. The passengers sitting in the third row do not feel cramped at all. In fact, the third row is pretty comfortable at all.

Passenger Comfort
The 2010 Chevrolet Suburban 1500 is designed to offer the utmost passenger comfort. The front, rear and the third row have been designed to offer complete space for the passengers to stretch their legs and arms as well as the rest of the body in an easy way. The unique design offers a spacious seating without causing any felling of being cramped, even with the maximum of nine people sitting inside at a time. The space and the passenger comfort offered by the 2010 Chevrolet Suburban 1500 is the best among all the SUVs in the market today.

What Is the Best SUV to Buy for Durability?

The best SUV to buy depends on its specifications and its durability. Throughout the years, the popularity of SUVs has increased and as a result people are now putting more and more thought into their purchases. Generally, SUVs are very comparable to station wagons. The only difference is that SUVs are structured on a light-truck chassis. Some SUVs can be used for off-road trips, while others have a pickup style capacity.
SUVs are particularly recognized for having a higher ground clearance compared to other automobiles. With multiple SUV manufacturers, it's hard to determine which one is really durable and of high quality. The following models are the latest offerings on the market today. Each SUV type has been acknowledged for their durable structure, well-built and advanced components. 

2010 Ford Escape Hybrid
The 2010 Escape Hybrid has a typical 4-door and 5-passenger seating capacity. The SUV is available in 4 trims and is considered as a limited type model from the company. Since the release of Ford's FWD, experts and other enthusiasts have acknowledged its 2.5-liter, I4 hybrid engine. The hybrid engine introduced has a 153-horsepower and can reach around 34-mpg when driven within the city. The car can achieve 31-mpg when driven on the highway. The Ford Escape Hybrid is known for its well built body structure. Because of its acclaimed engine system and well structured body type, experts note that this car will last long. 

2010 Cadillac SRX
The 2010 Cadillac SRX has a 4-door and 5-passenger seating capacity. The SRX is available in 9 trims. The 2010 SRX is part of Cadillac's AWD Turbo Premium Collection. It has a durable engine system that is also well regarded by many in both the industry and the market. The car has a 3.0-liter, V6 engine capable of producing 265-horsepower. When driven within the city, the car can reach up to 18-mpg. It can reach 25-mpg when out on the highway. Previous collections from the AWD Turbo Premium group were built with equipped 2.8-liter, V6, 300-horsepower engine. The 2010 Cadillac SRX is a restructured version of the previous SRX model. It has more engine power and durability. 

2010 GMC Terrain
The 2010 GMC Terrain also has a 5 passenger seating capacity and 4-door body type. The car is available in 8 trims. This SUV model is available in editions such as the SLE1 FWD and the SLT2 AWD. GMC released a version of the GMC Terrain through the SLE1 FWD. This SUV type features a 2.4-liter, I4 engine that can produce 182-horsepower. The SUV can reach 22-mpg and 32-mpg within the city and the highway, respectively. The transmission system, structure and GMC's emphasis on its ability to manufacture cars that can withstand time contributes to the durability and dependability of the car.

These are just some of the newest offerings to consider when looking for the best SUV to buy.

What Is the Best SUV for a New Driver? 

 

An SUV first-time buyer will often ask "what is the best SUV to buy?" Such a question is very difficult to answer in precise terms due to the differences in perception and perspective regarding the term "best." Instead of telling what make or model is the best buy, the new driver should use these criteria when looking for an SUV.

Manual or Automatic Transmission?
The trend for new SUV models these days is automatic transmission. If you are going on a trip across the country with the whole family, you will be glad that you can just sit back and take your mind off an additional pedal while cruising along the highway. Similarly, a new driver will welcome the fact that he gets to immediately drive instead of laboriously trying to learn the theory of the stick shift.

An SUV that has the option of automatic and manual transmissions is the best buy though. Once a new driver gets enough practice, he will want to gain extra control over the vehicle and "tame" the beast for himself. The last thing a new driver wants is to be treated as a newbie for the rest of his life. Unless you are only buying the SUV as a training vehicle, arrange for the new driver to gradually become comfortable with both manual and automatic transmission systems. This way he is enabled to make his own choices instead of you choosing for him all the time.

Used or Brand New?
The general expectation for new drivers is that, since they do not have the necessary breadth of experience, they will make mistakes. These mistakes can be really nasty. Almost all drivers will remember their first fender benders and it is a rare driver indeed that will get parallel parking right the first time.

Buying a used SUV for your new driver is definitely the cost-effective solution because unlike brand-new SUV's you can just leave a bumped fender as is without feeling overly conscious about it. However, this mindset might lead to the formation of bad habits and clumsy behavior.

Because the SUV is used, the new driver can easily be tempted to drive around recklessly, knowing that any accidents he may have won't matter much. It is therefore recommended that a new or slightly new SUV be purchased. This should give the new driver some food for thought and teach him to value safety over adventure.

Combustion, Electric or Hybrid?
It's never too early to teach a new driver to care for the environment. Part of that lesson is choosing which engine goes with the SUV. The type of SUV you buy for your new driver gives a hint of how you treat the environment.

Many old drivers think that electric or hybrid SUV's perform a lot more poorly than their combustion counterparts, even if research proves them false. This is generally because they have been using combustion engines all their life and using something else makes them feel uncomfortable. Buying your new driver an electric or hybrid SUV will allow him to make a better judgment regarding performance later on in his driving career. Who knows? Maybe your choice will usher in a new wave of environmentally conscious drivers.

What Is the Best SUV to Buy for Good Handling? 

 

When looking for the best SUV to buy in terms of good handling, many are looking at the Infiniti EX35. The Infiniti EX35 is a sport-luxury crossover SUV. The EX35 is markedly smaller than other similar vehicles from rival companies, but the EX35 more than makes up for its smaller size with superior handling, high-class interior design, and high-tech gadgetry.

Handling and Performance
The greatest strength of the EX35 lies in its superior handling. The SUV's front mid-ship platform's handling dynamics are set to perfectly center the car's weight. This provides excellent steering response and keeps the EX35 perfectly balanced throughout the tightest curves and bends in the road. The EX35's excellent handling rivals that of smaller, lighter vehicles and makes this SUV drive like a sports sedan. This certainly sets the EX35 apart from its bulkier competitors.

The EX35's VRQ6 engine produces 297 horse power and 253 lb. feet of torque. Normally, an engine with this much power would perform at its best at higher RPMs, but the SUV's designers paired the engine with five-speed automatic gearing to allow the EX35 to run smoothly at any speed. The SUV can operate in either of two modes: automatic or "manumatic". The EX35 incorporates the use of an advanced learning algorithm when in automatic driving mode. The algorithm works to adapt the SUV's shifting to your own driving style to maximize the engine's performance. Alternatively, the manumatic mode can be used to shift gears manually. When in manumatic mode, fore and aft taps to the shifter will shift the SUV to higher and lower gears, respectively.

The Infiniti EX35 comes in rear-wheel-drive-only and all-wheel-drive versions. The all-wheel-drive system of the latter version constantly adjusts the vehicle to changing road surface conditions. The all-wheel-drive system could be an invaluable feature for drivers who frequently have to deal with less-than-ideal road conditions. The EX35's fuel economy is 17 MPG on city roads and 24 MPG on highways. Driving in both conditions yields approximately 21 MPG.

Interior Design
The EX35's interior was designed specifically with driver and passenger comfort and ergonomics in mind. While the SUV comes with a number of "gadgets" in addition to more standard controls, all controls are laid out to be perfectly within reach of the driver. Additionally, all controls "remember" their settings, so setting up the controls settings for different drivers or driving conditions is made that much easier. Possibly the only design flaw for the EX35's interior lies in the lack of leg room for the rear seats; this is compensated somewhat by the backs of the front seats being concave to provide rear-seat passengers with a little more room.

High-Tech Features
The Infiniti EX35 comes with an optional technology package. This package, which comes at an additional $2,250, features a number of additions to promote safe driving, including a lane departure warning, distance control assist, and intelligent cruise control and brake assist. Even without this optional package, the EX35 comes with an Around View Monitor system, Bluetooth functionality, a navigation system and an iPod control port, among other features.

While the best SUV to buy for good handling will be a matter of personal preference, the Infiniti EX35 will certainly match that description for many drivers.

Related Questions and Answers

Besides Land Rover, What Other SUVs Have a High Resale Value? 

The Toyota Sequoia is one model that has a high resale value simply because of the quality of the car. The car has roomy interiors and is easy to maintain. Kelley Blue Book typically assigns two or three year-old models really great resale prices. The Ford Expedition is also a good value for the money. Other SUV models with high resale values can be found on the Kelley Blue Book, including the Suzuki Grand Vitara SUV and the Subaru Forester, 2.5X AW.

What SUVs Have Low Resale Value?

Before you buy an SUV, it is a good idea to check with Kelley Blue Book - where resale values of SUV models are listed one or two years into ownership. On the whole, almost all cars depreciate in value with increased use but these few models seem to lose more than half their value in the first two to three years of ownership. For example, the Kia is a well known brand that creates wonderful cars with smart interiors - but this SUV model depreciates more than 64% of its value, making it a poor resale model. Another equally poor investment is the Suzuki Grand Vitara. This model has a cheaper sticker price but costs double to maintain in the long run due to higher insurance costs and doubtful fuel economy.

What is the Average Resale Value for Most SUVs?

The average resale value of an SUV will depend on the sticker price of the car, dealer price, servicing costs and maintenance done in the years before resale, insurance costs and the distance covered by the car during that same period of time. On average, SUVs depreciate anywhere from 52% in three years to more than 40% in five years on the sticker price. The best way to get the best and current valuation is by using Kelley Blue Book which has reliable car information and can provide accurate three and five year resale valuations on your car model.

What is the Fastest SUV Available? 

Owning an SUV can be a fun thing to do, especially since they are so much bigger than regular cars, and some people own the fastest SUV on the market today. For the most part, a consensus has been formed amongst vehicle testers, that the 2007 Mercedes Benz ML63 AMG is the fastest SUV available for purchase. This vehicle was clocked at 4.5 seconds when going 0-60 MPH. If the vehicle were to drive a 1/4 mile, it could reach its destination in 13.0 seconds at a rate of 108.1 MPH. This vehicle meets the Cadillac XLR-V and the Pontiac G8 GXP in a dead heat.

Can I Buy an SUV Warranty at a Different Place Besides the Dealership?

Yes, you can buy an SUV warranty in other places than your dealership. Numerous websites offer aftermarket dealer warranties that may be cheaper than those offered by the dealer. Independent warranty companies offer a wide variety of options for you to consider. It is imperative that you review these alternative options just like you would a warranty offered by your dealer. Not all online companies are reliable, so carefully research your options beforehand. Every auto warranty company should fax, email or provide you a copy of the warranty ahead of time for you to review. If they don't, you shouldn't sign the warranty.

What is the Most Popular Car Warranty Scam?

The most popular car warranty scam is what is often referred to as a "third-party warranty". Third party warranties are those offered by companies that have no direct business interest in covering your car. In fact, these warranties differ from a manufacturers extended warranty by offering compensation or coverage for repairs the warranty company never intends to cover. The biggest problem is that these warranty companies tell you to bring your car to a dealership or repair shop for repairs, claiming they will reimburse you for the damages. The problem comes when you attempt to collect the money and the warranty company refuses to pay or even return phone calls.

Is a Mechanical Breakdown Warranty a Waste of Money When Buying a New Car?

When buying a new car, it is generally considered a waste of money to purchase a mechanical breakdown warranty. These warranties typically cover mechanical failures in vehicles, and are best suited for high mileage cars that may experience maintenance issues on account of age, or wear and tear. Not only is a new vehicle potentially covered by a drivetrain warranty, it also has a manufacturer's extended warranty on it. Furthermore, most of the failures a mechanical breakdown warranty covers are directly a result of high mileage and wear and tear. Meaning, that your new vehicle shouldn't be suffering from these problems in the first place. If it does, it is likely a mechanical defect and covered under your other warranties.

Do All New SUVs Come with a Factory Car Warranty?

All new vehicles, including SUVs, come with a factory car warranty. In fact, your new SUV should come with multiple warranties bundled together. These include: a powertrain warranty, a bumper to bumper warranty, and warranties that cover the restraint system, roadside assistance, anti-corrosion and even adjustments and maintenance. Some of these warranties (such as roadside assistance), are purchased at an additional cost, depending on the manufacturer. However, nearly every new vehicle will include a bumper to bumper warranty for a specific amount of years and mileage, as well as a powertrain warranty.

Does a Lifetime Car Warranty Really Exist?

Chrysler is the only manufacturer to have offered a lifetime car warranty. This warranty covered the powertrain of your vehicle for your lifetime. However, most believe the deal isn't worth purchasing, since few people keep cars for that many years. In recent years, Chrysler has backed off of the lifetime warranty to some extent, though they still offer it. Most auto manufacturers offer extended warranties. Some even as long as ten years and 100,000 miles. This proves to be a far better value. Lastly, it is important to note that Chrysler's lifetime warranty only covers the powertrain (and likely only manufacturer defects).

What is the Highest Selling SUV Under $25,000? 

There are a number of options for buying an SUV for under $25,000. The winner of the most popular SUV under $25,000 category is going to depend on whether you want a brand new vehicle or if a certified pre-owned vehicle is acceptable. In the pre-owned category, the 2006 Jeep Grand Cherokee, with an average price (depending on options) of around $22,000 is the winner hands down. Jeep has been a leader in the SUV market for a number of decades and continues this dominance into today. For new SUVs you have your choice of the Kia Sorrento, Subaru Outback and the four-door Chevy Equinox LS. 

 
Are 6 Cylinder Engines Standard for Most SUV Models?

If you're looking for a 6 cylinder SUV, in order to balance fuel economy and power, you're in luck. Most of the mid-size SUVs are available with 6 cylinder engines. The Jeep Cherokee, for instance, comes standard with a 3.6 liter V-6 engine that delivers 280 HP and mileage up to 23 on the highway. The Chevy Equinox also comes with a V-6 engine, displacing 3.0 liters and producing 264 HP. The Jeep Wrangler, one of the most overall popular SUV body styles ever, comes standard with a 3.8 liter V6 engine that produces 202 HP and delivers 19 miles per gallon.

Which SUV has the Worst Rollover Rating?

Because of small SUVs like the Suzuki Samurai and Geo Tracker, many people have become very interested in SUV rollover ratings. These are ratings assigned by various testing agencies, both independent and affiliated with either the government or the insurance industry on various aspects of vehicle crash worthiness and safety. The NHTSA Rollover Rating is based upon vehicle weight and center of gravity. According to this rating, the Chevy Blazer and GMC Jimmy have the highest likelihood of rolling over during a single car crash, of the available SUVs on the market. The NHTSA rating system is based on a five star rating, with five being the best. These two vehicles rated one star. 

Are There Any 9 Passenger SUV Models Out There?

You've got a large family and are looking for a 9 passenger SUV. You're in luck, as there are currently four 9-passenger SUV options on the market. The Venerable Chevy Suburban 1500 tops this list, with an average price tag of $39,000. Next comes the Chevy Tahoe, with an average retail price of $36,000. The next two 9-passenger options are from Ford. The first is the Excursion, Ford's gigantic SUV introduced in the '90s. Priced between $37,000 and $50,000, the Excursion is going to dig pretty deeply into your wallet to get the options and extras you want. Ford's always popular Expedition is the last 9-passenger SUV available to you. With prices between $37,000 and $43,000, this SUV is also going to dig into your wallet to get it equipped the way you want it.

Are There Any SUVs with a Three Row Seat Capacity?

Nine-passenger SUVs are also three row SUVs. What this means is that any SUV that can seat nine people will have three rows of seats. This includes the Chevy Suburban and Tahoe. Ford adds the Excursion and Expedition to the mix. The Expedition's third row seat is electrically powered to raise and lower for use, meaning if you don't need to carry nine people, you will have added cargo capacity. The Lincoln Navigator, from Ford, seats eight and comes with a powered third row seat. The Nissan Armada, while seating only eight, also has an optional folding third row seat, which gives it seating for eight.

 News Source: http://www.carsdirect.com