Couples often find themselves arguing about the merits of buying a truck. So it seemed like a good idea to analyze the reasons that a person would choose a truck over an SUV these days.
So we came up with some questions that we think, once you answer, will help you decide what’s best for you as an individual, couple or family.
How Big Is Your Crowd?
Do you have a lot of people who ride with you regularly? It may be your family, sports team, coworkers, carpool or other group. If that group is five or more, you really need an SUV. This way you can seat up to 7 people or even 9, if you choose a really big ute. As a compromise with a truck, a big SUV usually has a lot of carrying capacity when the seats are folded.
How old are the kids?
Kids are usually riding in the backseat. You’ll want a vehicle that lets them in and out easily. That tends to be an SUV rather than a truck. Furthermore, a truck generally doesn’t have a very big backseat, making it a poor fit if you have teens. On the other hand, if you choose a Ford F150 Supercrew, your kids will have plenty of wiggle room, and you’ll have the truck bed you want.
What’s the payload?
Many times a person wants a truck with a specific payload in mind. Maybe they do carpentry or landscaping. These messy occupations are better off with a truck bed for the payload. On the other hand, if you will mostly be concerned with kids’ backpacks and weekend luggage, an SUV ought to work just fine.
What will you tow?
Here’s where you really want to analyze tow ratings. Many SUVs are underpowered and simply not equipped for towing over 5,000 pounds. However, you need to be careful about buying a truck. It is vital to find out if the engine level you can afford has a decent tow rating. If it is only going to tow 6,500 pounds, it may not be enough for the RV you want to tow.
What do you do for a living?
Your desk job may have you indoors all day. The cost of gas may make driving a truck very costly indeed. An inexpensive SUV with good gas mileage is surely a better idea. You’ll probably save up enough to rent a truck when you need one.
Do you have a parking space?
A big pickup may be too big for the parking in your area or at your job. Even some garages are too small. Make sure to take that into consideration when trying to decide whether to get a truck.
What do you do in your spare time?
Do you need a certain SUV or truck in order to pursue your hobby? A busy adventure-minded sports fanatic will definitely lean toward a truck. A person who frequently attends out-of-town collector events may want to consider a vehicle with good gas mileage. Unless, of course, that person collects large yard sculptures.
Do you love to drive?
Often the reason a person wants a truck is for the fun of driving it. A truck implies a certain sense of freedom. However, the driver needs to keep in mind that many trucks are cumbersome to drive and won’t be very competitive in traffic. The fuel bill may discourage driving just for fun. So, there’s a wash here if the purpose is driving fun.
Are you ready for an off-road adventure?
While many SUVs are made for off-roading, a truck is more naturally inclined to getting a little dirty. A truck has good ground clearance, even if it isn’t specifically designed for the trail. Obviously if you seek this type of mildly dangerous adventure, you should be well equipped for it by buying the right truck. On the other hand, if you really don’t think you’ll leave the payment, why pay extra for a truck? Spend that money on a better SUV or just save it for your vacation.
With the answers to these questions, you may be able to resolve whether to choose a truck or not. You don’t want to make an impulse buy at the first place you stop. Definitely plan on test driving more than one vehicle, and don’t let anyone talk you into a vehicle that’s too expensive or simply wrong for your lifestyle.
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