Your Ultimate SUV Buying Guide
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Ultimate SUV Buying Guide
The Middle East is a popular region for SUV sales, with buyers showing an increasing preference for high-bodied vehicles that combine practicality and performance into an attractive package. As buyers shift away from traditional hatchbacks, sedans, and wagons, an influx of SUVs catering to various budgets and niches has emerged.
Due to the sheer number of options available, this Ultimate SUV Buying Guide aims to assist buyers like you through every step of the process—from scouting your dream car and comparing it to its rivals, to explaining the technical jargon that most would overlook when faced with an excited salesman on the showroom floor.
The Research Phase
If you're in the market for a new SUV, you likely began your research using an online platform. This could involve browsing manufacturer and dealer websites, video platforms such as YouTube, or a mix of social media channels.
On YallaMotor, you are provided with a holistic approach to every vehicle available across the GCC region. For example, when considering the Ford Expedition, you receive a general overview of the model, accurate pricing for each trim level, a list of competitors, insurance estimates, and monthly installment costs. Moreover, the ability to compare cars makes the process easier.
With a simple and straightforward comparison tool, you can highlight differences across various models. The information is divided into four broad categories:
- Price
- Engine & Power
- Measurements
- Features
Jargon Deciphering
During the research phase or while on the showroom floor, you may encounter jargon that could make purchasing an SUV daunting. Understanding these terms will better equip you to grasp your next SUV's capabilities and limitations.
Cylinders
When discussing engine specifications, two terms come into play: Cylinders and Displacement. The latter refers to the size of the engine internally, while the former indicates the chamber where gasoline is burned and converted into power.
For the Ford Expedition with its 3.5-liter V6 engine, '3.5-liter' refers to the displacement, while 'V6' denotes the configuration and number of cylinders. Generally, engines with more cylinders produce more power, while those with fewer cylinders offer better fuel economy.
Horsepower & Torque
Horsepower and Torque are terms often used without a full understanding of their meanings. While both refer to the power generated by an engine, they focus on different aspects.
In simple terms, horsepower relates to top speed, while torque deals with acceleration. A car with high horsepower and low torque may feel sluggish from a stop but gains strength as speed increases. Conversely, a car with low horsepower and high torque accelerates strongly from a stop but loses momentum at higher speeds.
Locking Differentials
Locking differentials are crucial for off-road vehicles, providing the ability to make an inexperienced driver appear adept. A standard differential distributes power to the driven wheels via the path of least resistance, meaning if one wheel is off the ground, power is directed to that wheel, leaving the vehicle immobile.
Locking differentials resolve this issue by equally distributing power among all wheels. They allocate power to the wheels with traction, enabling experienced drivers to navigate tricky off-road situations without assistance.
A center locking differential splits power evenly between the front and rear wheels (50% each), while a rear locking differential further divides power equally between the rear wheels (25% each). Most modern SUVs are equipped only with a center locking differential, while few dedicated off-road vehicles feature front and rear differentials.
Towing Capacity
Towing capacity indicates the maximum weight a vehicle can tow, which can include trailers, boats, or other vehicles. The Chevrolet Suburban, a primary competitor, has a towing capacity of 3,765kg (8,300lb), while the Ford Expedition boasts an impressive 4,218kg (9,300lb) capacity.
Higher towing capacities provide more convenience, allowing users to tow multiple speedboats or quad bikes without straining the engine or gearbox.
Transmission
Transmission refers to the type of gearbox used by a vehicle, which can be either automatic or manual. With manufacturers striving to include as many speed transmissions as possible, it's common to find vehicles with 7, 8, 9, or even 10-speed automatic transmissions, aimed at maintaining lower engine RPMs to improve fuel efficiency.
If all other parameters remain constant, an SUV with more gears will typically be more fuel-efficient than one with fewer gears, as the engine operates under less strain.
Turbocharger
In simple terms, a turbocharger is a device that boosts engine power. Smaller-displacement engines can achieve power figures comparable to larger engines with the help of turbochargers. The all-new Ford Expedition, with its turbocharged V6 engine, replaces the older naturally aspirated V8 engine while delivering enhanced power and efficiency.
Wheelbase
Wheelbase is the distance between the center of the front wheel and the center of the rear wheel, making it an important factor for buyers of full-size SUVs aiming to transport large families. A longer wheelbase provides greater cabin space for occupants.
The Final Purchase
After narrowing down your options, visiting showrooms, and conducting test drives, it's time to sign on the dotted line. A common question arises: where is the best place to purchase an SUV? If budget is not a significant concern, visiting a nearby new car dealership allows you to drive away with a brand-new vehicle, enjoying the promise of trouble-free motoring, an excellent warranty, and possibly a service contract.
For those seeking a great deal, many new car dealerships have certified pre-owned sections with a variety of cars. Vehicles sold through certified used car programs undergo thorough inspections, include full-service histories from the dealer, and are typically priced lower due to the initial depreciation taken by the previous owner.
Regardless of the option you choose, we wish you the best in your search and purchase of your next SUV.
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