When you become a parent, you soon realize that you need a vehicle that will fit kids, dogs, and sports equipment. At one time, you resolved yourself to the fact that you needed a minivan. That was the only practical choice for a family. Auto manufacturers heard your prayers and designed a vehicle that was as sporty as a sports car, practical as a minivan, and useful as a pickup truck. This was the SUV, or Sports Utility Vehicle.

Why buy an SUV?

You can find SUVs in all sizes, from enhanced station wagons to hulking behemoths that can seat eight passengers comfortably. You can buy base models with many popular options included or add amenities such as heated seats, power moonroofs, and upgraded audio video systems with drop down DVD players. Many SUVs are available with all-wheel drive to get you home safely during winter weather events. Fold down seating arrangements can offer up to eight feet of carrying capacity.

Should you buy a new or used SUV?

Used SUVs, like used cars and trucks and minivans, are a better choice. Here's why:

• Less depreciation. When you drive a new vehicle off the car lot, it immediately depreciates in value because it is no longer new. Research and compare the price of a specific new vehicle with the price of the same vehicle that is one or two years old. The difference in price can be staggering.
• Less expensive insurance. Because you are driving the same car at a lower cost, your insurance premiums will be less expensive.
• The buying experience. When you buy a used car, truck, or SUV, you can drive and compare many similar models at the same dealership. It is much easier to notice subtle differences in handling, head and leg room, and driving performance if you can compare vehicles at the same location.
• Quality. You can judge the quality of a vehicle by its performance after being previously driven over an extended period of time. SUVs, in particular, are built to be durable even when used off road.Used car dealerships will usually provide a limited warranty to assure the customer that the vehicle has been thoroughly inspected and deemed ready for sale.

Used car dealerships depend on customer loyalty. If they sell a substandard vehicle, they will lose all your future business and that of your family, friends, and acquaintances. An auto dealer, such as Auto Max, can help set you up with the new or used car that's just right for you.