A car mechanic has recommended that motorists seeking to purchase a second-hand vehicle should choose estates rather than SUVs. For almost two decades, SUVs have been dominating the marketplace as car makers witnessed a continuous surge in appetite for this type of vehicle.
In reaction to this public craving to sit elevated in massive and cumbersome giants, leading manufacturers have practically transformed into single-design producers. Everyone from Ford to Aston Martin, from Ferrari to Fiat, Peugeot, MG and others are producing SUVs.
But not everyone is so enthusiastic. Car mechanic James Goodhand previously revealed what he believed to be the "world's most reliable" car.
And now, speaking to ReachPlc, he has shared why used car enthusiasts should look beyond SUVs for their next vehicle and instead opt for an estate.
Estate vehicles resemble SUVs but are more lightweight and sit closer to the road surface. They offer comparable load space but don't require defying physics to remain stable around bends.
Furthermore, being conventionally lighter means they require less powerful and fuel-hungry engines to deliver equivalent performance.
James said: "Largely personal prejudice here, but I always advise buying an estate car rather than the equivalent SUV. Who needs the extra height?
"Take Volvo's big car offering for example - you can buy an XC90 SUV or a V90 estate. The V90 is a good 25% cheaper used, it's got more room inside, its faster, handles better, uses less fuel, and you're far more likely to be let out of side turnings in one!".
Whilst numerous individuals remain critical of SUVs, one motoring expert has warned against making sweeping generalisations about a vehicle type that continues to grow in popularity each year.
Writing for Auto Express, expert Steve Walker explained that ultimately, the public chooses to purchase SUVs because they simplify their daily lives, and shouldn't face criticism for this decision.
He commented: "We would all like to see smaller, lighter cars that consume fewer resources in their construction and use, but 'SUV' is a lazy way of defining vehicles that don't conform to this vision.
"Buyers want cars that are easy and affordable to live with. Legislators (in Europe at least) demand cars that are packed with safety tech and use electrified powertrains to lower emissions. Car makers want to turn a profit. The SUV is just what the compromise between these conflicting demands looks like in 2025."
Given this context, several second-hand vehicle specialists are queuing up to assist buyers in selecting the ideal Sports Utility Vehicle for their needs.
Chatting to the Express, the TikTok channel @CapturingCars endorsed the Hyundai Tucson. They stated: "It's reliable enough. They're a good car but the infotainment system on them is fantastic. Really easy to use, very well equipped. It's a good-looking car, reliable, reasonably priced, plenty out there to choose from for under £10,000. A clear winner."
