A motoring expert has revealed that one particular type of vehicle represents a superior and more affordable alternative to an SUV.
Over the last twenty years, the number of SUVs (Sport Utility Vehicles) has soared as car makers have catered to consumer appetite. Nevertheless, while SUV availability has increased, the cost of new cars has also climbed.
This means that if motorists want an SUV, or indeed a reasonably recent vehicle at a fair price, they must turn to the used car market.
The used car market provides greater choice than just SUVs, and this is where motoring specialist George Armitage believes people ought to consider an alternative, reports the Mirror.
George has argued that rather than choosing a high-riding, weighty and less engaging SUV, motorists should instead purchase a pre-owned executive saloon car. An executive saloon caris essentially a more upmarket saloon vehicle.
Setting out his reasoning in AutoExpress, George explained that while these saloons offered less room than SUVs, they compensated by delivering superior fuel economy and enhanced driving pleasure.
He stated: "Executive cars are built with more focus on long-distance comfort and the driving experience. Buying one means you gain in refinement and handling composure as well as getting cabin quality beyond that of a base-spec mid-size SUV.
"If you come around to my way of thinking, remember that these are used cars, so check everything carefully. Be patient, do your research and buy smart. Get it right and you'll end up with a car that drives better, feels better and looks better than the SUVs everyone else is buying – all for less cash."
George isn't the first motoring expert to propose that SUVs might not represent the optimal choice.
Earlier this year, automotive mechanic James Goodhand recommended that motorists should opt for estates rather than SUVs. These vehicles offer comparable, if not enhanced, practicality without the handling compromises.
James told ReachPLC: "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, it's faster, handles better, uses less fuel, and you're far more likely to be let out of side turnings in one!"
While numerous automotive specialists criticise the surge in SUV popularity, others, including Steve Walker, argue that consumers shouldn't face criticism for following market trends.
He told AutoExpress: "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. Carmakers want to turn a profit. The SUV is just what the compromise between these conflicting demands looks like in 2025."
