SUVs

Are they worth it?

by Jim Osborn

I can't criticize anybody because I did it too. I bought that expensive, gas-guzzling SUV that I always thought I wanted. And now I can hardly afford to drive it anywhere. (It looks very nice in the driveway though.)

It's been repeatedly proven in independent crash tests that SUVs are the most dangerous mode of transportation as compared to sedans, minivans and pickups. And since the SUV explosion, both safety and gas mileage have suffered.

Why buy big?

Does the average commuter need an SUV? I believe that with the exception of hunters, fishermen, boaters or people who haul trailers or ATV's, or those who live in areas with adverse weather conditions, the rest of us are being stupid and wasteful.

Research and opinion polls show that only 1 out of 10 SUV owners actually use them for off-road purposes. Large sedans and minivans are safer and also more affordable, practical, reliable and fuel-efficient.

Safety concerns

Back to the safety issue for a moment: do you know that there are currently no minimum safety standards for rollover percentage? Front and side impact ratings are in place, so why are there no safety standards for vehicles that tend to roll over frequently?

In 2002, Ford was sued because of its boastful claims that SUVs had the same handling capabilities as cars and were capable of handling emergency procedures at fast speeds. Well, they settled out of court and paid the plaintiff 51-and-a-half million dollars.

Why the explosion in SUV sales? Being one of the morons that forked out big bucks, pays high insurance rates and is currently being blackmailed at the pump, I would have to attribute it to prestige.

Status symbol

I just always wanted one - didn't need it really, but I convinced myself that I did. It's a beautiful vehicle, but sadly a poor choice on my part due to the inflated expense and unsafe handling.

Are SUV's worth it? I would have to say for the average consumer NO! SUVs are less safe for people who own them, less safe for other drivers on the road and are gas guzzlers extraordinaire!

It used to be we could depend on the reputation and reliability of North American cars to meet our standards - but could it be the times are changing? Here in the U.S., overseas models are continuing to rise in popularity. Find out why!

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