Have you been browsing used SUVs in Sioux Falls? Before you purchase, know exactly what you want out of your next vehicle. Below are the top five questions to answer before shopping for an SUV.
1. Car, Truck, or SUV?
As you may know, SUV stands for "sport utility vehicle," meaning a stronger and sturdier frame than your typical car, yet still quick enough to zip around town. Equipped to handle difficult terrain, SUVs are a smart choice for anyone who lives in colder climates (like ours here in Sioux Falls) or who off-roads often. They're also a wise buy for families, as they offer plenty of space for both passengers and cargo.
An SUV is a nice "happy medium" between a car and a truck, but SUVs aren't necessarily for everyone. If you need excellent towing capacity, you're better off getting a truck, but if you just want some great MPG, you may as well go with a car. Take a look at your unique needs and decide whether an SUV is really right for you.
2. Compact, Mid-Size, or Full-Size?
Once you're set on getting an SUV, you need to choose a size. There are generally three main classifications of SUVs: compact, mid-size, and full-size.
Compact SUVs are naturally smaller and less powerful than other sizes, though they are also less expensive and get more miles per gallon. Full-size SUVs are pricier to buy and maintain, but they're also safer and more spacious, while also offering more towing capacity. Mid-size SUVs fall somewhere in between.
SUVs of all sizes have both economy and luxury options. All can also be considered a "crossover," which simply means that the vehicle is based on a car platform rather than a truck platform. Crossovers are very popular here in Sioux Falls, and we would highly recommend one if you're looking for versatility and great mileage without the bulk of a truck-based vehicle.
3. Car-Based or Truck-Based?
Speaking of vehicle platforms, the third question you need to ask yourself when looking at used SUVs in Sioux Falls is whether you want car-based or truck-based.
Car-based SUVs have smoother handling and fuel economy as well as quieter, more comfortable cabins. Truck-based SUVs, on the other hand, offer better towing capacity and off-roading capability, along with a sturdier build.
4. Four-, Six-, or Eight-Cylinder Engine?
Do you value horsepower or miles per gallon. Some SUVs offer a balance of both, while others lean one way or the other. Those factors are determined by the SUV's engine size, which can vary from four to eight cylinders.
Four-cylinder engines, which are found in compact SUVs and some mid-size SUVs, offer the best fuel economy (mpg in the low- to mid-20s). Six-cylinder engines, which are typical for mid-size SUVs but also found in a few compact SUVs, get average gas mileage (mpg in the upper teens). Eight-cylinder engines, boasted by full-size SUVs, provide poorer gas mileage (mpg from 12 to 20) but greater power.
5. Two-Wheel, Four-Wheel, or All-Wheel Drive?
The final big choice to make when considering used SUVs in Sioux Falls is what sort of drivetrain you want: two-wheel, four-wheel, or all-wheel drive?
Two-wheel drive SUVs provide power to the vehicle by using either the front two or back two wheels alone. Four-wheel drive SUVs allow drivers to choose between using two or four wheels and sometimes feature dual-range gearing for better traction and mobility. All-wheel drive SUVs distribute power automatically, adjusting in varying degrees to the wheels with the most traction.
Four-wheel drive is generally better for off-roading, while all-wheel drive is more suited for all-weather driving. If neither of those are concerns for you, go with a two-wheel drive – it will cost you less over the long run.
Used SUVs in Sioux Falls
Once you've made those five important choices, you're ready to start browsing SUVs. Head to our website or lot to scope out the makes, models, and trims available to you. Be sure to take into account other key considerations, like price point, safety features, and any luxury add-ons you may want.
Shopping in the Sioux Falls area? Check out our extensive selection of used SUVs in Sioux Falls. We've got all the top brands and tons of makes to choose from. So whatever size, platform, engine, and drivetrain you want, we've got you covered.