A 4x4 is a car salesperson's dream because they can claim their vehicle is different from their competitors, even unique, and therefore worth a different price. However when you make a 4x4 comparison, focus on features and cut the jargon it doesn't look that way on paper.
You can simplify a 4x4 comparison down to 5 features. If you then avoid being distracted by equipment and understand the jargon, you get a clearer picture.
First, I won't be looking at style or prestige because they're a matter of personal taste. I won't be talking about durability or reliability because I don't think they're significant issues these days. You simply need to compare 4x4s by comparing all SIDES:
- Size
- Interior
- Driving
- Economy
- Safety
Size matters. It in part determines the car fitting your life. The average 4x4 isn't as big as you'd imagine. In fact it's surprising when you make a car size comparison for 4x4s with today's super size small cars at 4m. SUVs look bulky but there can sometimes only be a .5m difference in a car length comparison with a small car.
Interior space in a 4x4 can differ even when you compare car dimensions and they look the same. This is because there are two types of body. One an estate car body sat high on a chassis. The high roof line promises interior space but the floor pan is also high so there's no more space than you'd find in a conventional estate car. The second type of body is basically an MPV uni-body chassis with van like interior space, referred to as crossovers.
Driving & Economy. You'll find a wide range of petrol and diesel options available so you can find your own balance between fuel consumption, emissions and performance. When you drive a 4x4 be very aware of comfort for all occupants. 4x4s, SUVs and to a lesser extent crossovers have a high centre of gravity. Recent improvements with car like suspension control and handling means most are more stable but the roll energy is still there. Be sure the seats are shaped so you sit in them, not on them.
Safety has been an issue with 4x4 type vehicles which I look at in my next post. Things are improving but this brings me to the subject of jargon and what's called product differentiation.
ESP is certainly the motorists guardian angel. However I'm less than happy with the way it's described. The last I knew there were only two manufacturers of ESP in the world and the systems do the same thing. Bosch say the Electronic Stability Program (ESP) supports the driver in nearly all critical driving situations. It detects skidding instantaneously and actively counteracts it. Don’t be confused with manufacturers trying to differentiate themselves with different names for the what is the same system. They may call it DSC, PSM, VSA or VSC, ESC, but it’s ESP - Electronic Stability Program.
4x4, AWD etc. You can also be confused with manufacturers trying to differentiate themselves with different names for 4x4. There are different systems. You need to be clear if you need real all-terrain 4x4 capabilities or the limited AWD. AWD detects when the drive wheels are rotating faster than the others and switches to 4x4 drive for about 20 seconds only. It's of limited use especially if you're running on road tyres.
Equipment levels can also be confusing and distract from the 5 main features above. For example do you really need descent control? Steep descents in a car are dangerous. When I attended the Land Rover driving course it was the #1 exercise where drivers were injured. I've never made a steep descent since. I certainly wouldn't recommend steep descents for family outings.
There are experienced all-terrain drivers who will know exactly what they need in a 4x4 and equipment. This is extreme motoring, not family motoring. Most 4x4s, SUVs and crossovers are bought because they're seen as big safe family cars making size, interior space and safety most important.
You can keep it simple by looking at a 4x4 comparison from all SIDES and not be distracted by terms and equipment claiming product differentiation.
Regards
Ralph
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