Buying a new Four wheel Drive 4x4

Point to keep in mind when purchasing a four wheel drive

• Price
• size
• 4 wheel drive  ability
• passenger comfort
• resale
• service and spares
• fuel consumption
• features

Each point will  be a volume in itself but seriously as mentioned earlier 4 wheel drive vehicle are now purchased by people wanting a multipurpose vehicle.

This vehicle has got to pay its way , It must perform the every day use, ask these questions

• can I park this vehicle?
• am I able to see safely around the vehicle?
• can I afford the up keep of the extra fuel usage?
• will I every use the 4 wheel drive option?
• can my family/passenger be comfortable?
• will it do what I want? ( towing , recreation etc)

A good example is the retiree  now with a little cash and a bit of well deserved time  purchasing the dream caravan only to discover that a four wheel drive may be the only alternative to tow the home away from home.

However..

In the market place it is common to find good low KM vehicle that have been purchased for this reason only to find the original purchasers trading in because the vehicle didn't suit their life after the  caravan or trip.

It happens and money is lost.  Visibility is another reason why people opt out of their 4x4 early . High rear  ends and front bonnets  plus the fact they are higher than the average vehicle  does restrict visibility under normal driving situations.

Test this by placing a bucket or similar object in front of the vehicle  close to the bumper then in your normal seating position reverse back until you can see the object. You will be amazed the distance traveled before actually viewing the item. Try the same in the family car and see the difference. Its sad and tragic the accidents that happen in peoples own yards with small children because of this point. However the  4 wheel drive must have this  if it is to work in a  off road capacity.

Four wheel drives will use extra fuel, They logically have too. They are usually heavier and have different gearing. Manufacturers are very keen to offer a good fuel consumption but consider if you want to tow that 3 tonne boat  fuel consumption will not necessarily be your first consideration.  When considering a tow vehicle  or work horse  if you must really consider fuel consumption of the vehicle  you may wish to re think maybe  the item you want to tow or the work you wish to give it.

Make purchasing your vehicle a fun thing to do and don't get bogged down with your best friends mate and what he may think  when its you choosing for your lifestyle. It sound ridiculous but its like  finding the family pet.

Research, and test  then research and test again. Most new car dealer are happy to accommodate your requests if you are reasonable  in asking.

I hope this has maybe given you just one point of consideration on your new purchase that will make ownership a pleasure for many years to come.

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