Your Ultimate SUV Buying Guide
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Ultimate SUV Buying Guide: Navigate Your Purchase with Ease
The Popularity of SUVs in the Middle East
The Middle East is a popular region for SUV sales, and buyers can’t seem to get enough of these high-bodied vehicles that combine practicality and performance into an attractive package. With buyers moving away from traditional hatchbacks, sedans, and wagons, there has been an influx of SUVs catering to every budget and niche in the market.
The Research Phase
If you’re in the market for a new SUV, you’re likely to have begun your research using an online platform. This could include browsing manufacturer and dealer websites, video platforms such as YouTube, or a varied mix of social media channels.
On YallaMotor, you are given a holistic approach to every vehicle available across the GCC region. Taking the Ford Expedition as an example, you’re provided with a general overview of the model, accurate prices for each trim level, a list of competitors, insurance estimates, and monthly installment costs as well. The ability to compare cars is what makes the process easier.
With a simple and straightforward comparison tool, you can scroll through to highlight differences. Information is divided into four broad categories:
- Price
- Engine & Power
- Measurements
- Features
You can compare power figures and dimensions and narrow your selection down to individual features to shortlist your next SUV.
Jargon Deciphering
When standing on the showroom floor, you are likely to come across plenty of jargon that could make the process of purchasing an SUV daunting. Understanding the terminologies will mean you are in a better position to fully understand your next SUV and its capabilities and limitations.
Cylinders
In engine specifications, two terms come into play: Cylinders and Displacement. While the latter is the size of the engine internally, the former refers to the chamber where gasoline is burned and turned into power.
In the case of the Ford Expedition and its 3.5-liter V6 engine, ‘3.5-liter’ refers to the displacement, while ‘V6’ is the configuration and number of cylinders. Generally, an engine with more cylinders produces more power, while an engine with fewer cylinders provides better fuel economy.
Horsepower & Torque
Horsepower refers to top speed, while Torque focuses on acceleration. A car with high horsepower and low torque feels sluggish from a stop but feels stronger as speed builds up. Conversely, a car with low horsepower and high torque accelerates strongly from a stop but loses steam at higher speeds.
Locking Differentials
An important part of every off-road vehicle’s arsenal, locking differentials enhance the driving capabilities of SUVs. A standard differential splits power to the driven wheels via the path of least resistance, meaning if one wheel is off the ground, all the vehicle’s power will be directed to that wheel, preventing movement.
Locking differentials fix that problem by distributing power equally among all wheels, allowing experienced drivers to navigate tricky off-road situations. A center locking differential splits power equally between the front and rear wheels (50% each), while a rear locking differential further splits power equally between the rear wheels.
Towing Capacity
Towing capacity refers to the maximum weight a vehicle can pull, which can include a trailer, a boat, or another vehicle. The towing capacity of the Ford Expedition is 4,218kg (9,300lb), significantly higher than its competitor, the Chevrolet Suburban, which has a towing capacity of 3,765kg (8,300lb).
Transmission
Transmission refers to the type of gearbox employed by a vehicle, either automatic or manual. With manufacturers racing to add as many speeds as possible, you might encounter vehicles with 7, 8, 9, or 10-speed automatic transmissions aimed at improving fuel efficiency.
Turbocharger
A turbocharger boosts the power of an engine, allowing smaller displacement engines to match the power figures of larger engines. The new Ford Expedition features a turbocharged V6 engine, replacing the older naturally aspirated V8 powerplant while providing more power and efficiency.
Wheelbase
Wheelbase refers to the distance between the center of the front wheel and the center of the rear wheel. A longer wheelbase allows for greater space for occupants inside the cabin, which is crucial for families purchasing full-size SUVs.
The Final Purchase
Once you’ve narrowed down your options and conducted test drives, it’s time to sign on the dotted line. A question likely to arise is where’s the best place to purchase an SUV? If money isn’t a major concern, you can walk into your nearest new car dealership for a brand-new vehicle with a great warranty and possibly a service contract.
For those looking for a great deal, most new car dealerships also have a certified pre-owned section offering thoroughly inspected vehicles with a full-service history from the dealer, usually at significantly lower prices.
Whichever option you choose, we wish you the best in your search and purchase of your next SUV.
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