Sport utility vehicles, or SUVs, have risen in popularity over the past decade, with the Toyota RAV4 and Highlander topping the list. The competition is so evident that automakers are dropping sedans and trucks to focus on SUVs. If you're looking to buy a new or used Toyota SUV in Prosper, Texas, chances are you have several reasons for choosing an SUV.
SUVs are dominating the roads for many reasons. Most people choose SUVs because they offer the performance and cargo of trucks and the comfort of a sedan. The team at Longo Toyota of Prosper will list a few reasons why SUVs are currently so popular below.
Safety
Safety is the top priority when purchasing any vehicle. We all want to buy cars with many safety features and excellent crash-test ratings from popular sites. SUVs are taller and heavier, which makes the passengers and driver feel safer. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and Highway Loss Data Institute, heavier and bigger vehicles provide better crash protection than lighter and smaller cars.
Additionally, the high sitting position, large windows, and big back windshield provide the driver with better visibility. Most SUVs are also fitted with the latest technology, such as blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keep assist to give the driver more confidence and control.
Popularity of SUVs
A significant change in the automotive industry has forced automakers to stop producing other vehicles and focus on SUVs. Every year, automakers produce new SUVs or use older popular names to capture the market. This shows that automakers understand the demand from consumers and have widely accepted the shift in customer taste of buying bigger, bolder, more powerful, and versatile SUVs. It's a win-win situation for both parties, as SUVs are typically more expensive than sedans, which makes them more profitable. The bigger the competition and production, the more likely it is that you'll get a high-quality ride that values comfort, space, safety, and fuel economy.
Cargo and Passenger Space
Most consumers upgrade from sedans to SUVs to get more space. Even if you don't have a family, you want to drive a vehicle that allows you and your passengers to enjoy long drives, and SUVs provide this better than any vehicle. The high roof, boundless head and legroom, roomy cargo area, and low floor provide more space any driver would need for both daily commutes and long trips.
Most SUVs have a roof rack to increase storage and meet your traveling needs. The high ride height, shorter sills, and taller doors mean that your passengers don't need to bend and stoop like they would in sedans. It's safe to say that even the most compact SUVs have more cargo space than most sedans.
Electrification
As the world shifts to electric vehicles, SUVs are becoming the most popular choice. That means that when you're in the market for a new vehicle and are looking for an electric one, you're likely to find more varieties in the SUV segment than in any other category. Some automakers have announced that they're discontinuing most of their gas-powered vehicles to concentrate on electric SUVs. With that in mind, there's a good chance that electric SUV prices will start lowering as more competitive SUVs enter the market.
Handling and Performance
In addition to safety and space, people want vehicles that can drive well around the city and remote areas. SUVs are rugged, bigger, heavier, and more powerful, making them an excellent choice for people who value performance and handling. You'll also want to buy an SUV if you often drive in severe weather conditions. Like trucks, SUVs offer good ground clearance that allows you to drive over rough surfaces. They can get you to your favorite vacation spot anytime. Most SUVs have massive V-6 and V-8 engine options combined with all-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive systems. The ride height also provides insulation against curbs, potholes, road plates, and other road hazards, keeping you comfortable and relaxed.
Value Proposition
In the long run, everything comes down to value. When manufacturers started producing SUVs, they had one goal — to solve buyer problems. Rather than buying a truck for towing and a sedan for your everyday commute, you can buy an SUV that can do both. Some sedans are more expensive than SUVs and offer less passenger and cargo space.
On the other hand, pickup trucks may not give you the best fuel consumption and maneuverability around narrow streets in the city compared with compact SUVs. The competitive SUV segment also means vehicles have more innovative features that allow you to do more and enjoy your ride: hence, they're more reliable. When consumers weigh their options, SUVs easily win and dominate the automotive world.
Comfort, Versatility, and Practicality
Comfort is a critical factor when purchasing a vehicle. Whether you're buying a car for commuting to work or traveling from one state to another, you'll spend a considerable amount of time in your vehicle. For this reason, comfort should be a priority, and SUVs offer all the comfort you need. They're tall with low floors to provide you and passengers with enough head and legroom.
You can use an SUV to go to work, run errands, visit distant relatives in a neighboring town, and engage in off-roading activities. So, instead of getting multiple vehicles that take up space in your driveway, an SUV can do everything.
Now that you know the benefits of owning an SUV and why they're so popular, why not choose one of your own? Longo Toyota of Prosper has a wide selection of new and used Toyota SUVs, including the RAV4, Highlander, Corolla Cross, and 4Runner. Our sales team is happy to help you choose the right SUV based on your budget and preference and walk you through the purchase process. Don't worry about finance because our finance department can help you find a repayment plan that you're comfortable with. Contact us today to schedule your test drive.
