Tips on How To Pick the Right SUV for Your Family

Oh SUVs, why do we love thee? Let us count the ways. You’re dependable. You’re reliable. You’re always up for an adventure. You look so much cooler than a minivan, yet are able to carry just as many kids. But there are so many to choose from – where do you even start?

Not to worry – the helpful folks at Consumer Reports have put together a video on how to pick the right SUV for your lifestyle. Then you can head over to the AutoGuide New Cars section for SUVs where you can sort through our extensive list of models based on anything from starting price, to fuel economy, to what AutoGuide readers have rated the car.

Just a few of the reasons why SUVs have gained such massive popularity is due in part to their carrying capacity, high-driving position and towing capabilities. And who doesn’t like all that extra traction they provide in slippery-when-wet conditions?

But SUVs have a dark side too. They’re not as adept as regular cars and in emergency situations, they’ve been known to flip and roll, thanks to their high center of gravity. You need to weigh both the pros and the cons of this breed before you settle on the perfect one for you and your family – and that’s when this video comes in handy.

Available in a wide range of sizes and prices, smaller SUVs are the least expensive, offer better fuel economy and are more compact – although they do offer plenty of room inside. As you start to get into the mid- and large-sized models, you get more space and power, but you also get poor gas mileage and less manoeuvrability.

The video hands out some good tips for when it’s time to shop for an SUV – you should consider the type of driving you do, the weather conditions, how much power and cargo capacity you need, and how many people you will transport. Be sure that you’re not throwing away money on features and options you don’t really need and be realistic about your daily regular needs – by keeping these thing in mind, you’ll be buying an SUV that’s within your budget and meets all your needs.

Watch the video after the jump and take notes!

[Source: Consumer Reports]