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Spotlight: A northerner’s guide to finding the right SUV

How to make living a life with stuff easier.
180321 Superior Nissan SUV image 1

Life as an adventurous soul or active family comes with a price. And that price is baggage, luggage, equipment, team carpools, road trips, and the list goes on. We want access to all Northern Ontario has to offer but are often limited by lack of space in our cars for all things sports and outdoors.

We’re talking small vehicle problems!

With summer approaching maybe it’s time to think about how your vehicle fits your lifestyle and rethink what you can do to make a life filled with stuff easier.

Have you considered an SUV? It might just solve your problems.

Deciding on the right SUV that fits your lifestyle boils down to your needs, wants and budget. Luckily for buyers there are so many great options available in today’s market that finding the perfect vehicle is much simpler.

So what should you be considering in your quest for the SUV that fits your life?

Needs

Evaluate what your needs are when it comes to utility, cargo space and passenger space. Will you be taking any canoe trips off of the beaten path? Are you a family of Lake Superior surf nomads in search of the perfect wave? Are you the transporter of dance troupes, soccer clubs or hockey teams?

In any case, it’s always important you consider the seating capacity, interior passenger volume and cargo volume when assessing a new or used vehicle.

The interior passenger volume will give you a good indication about the “fit” of the vehicle. Although the number of seats may be the same in different SUVs, factors like roof height, length, and width play a role in determining space and overall comfort for you and your passengers.

These differences in dimensions also play a part in driving capability, safety, and fuel efficiency. So it’s best to talk to your local car dealer about your options and the full details.

When it comes to cargo space, take some time and assess exactly what you’ll be hauling presently and in the future. Vehicles like the 2018 Nissan Rogue offer a clever rear seat pass through and cool features like the divide and hide storage system so you can pack objects up to 8 feet long and organize your gear safely and efficiently.

Discover how each SUV configures and adapts its space. Bring the vehicle home on your test drive and explore its functionality to the fullest using the regular cargo you travel with. Really see if it works for you!

You’ll also want to think about utility. Where exactly do you plan on going? Are you running around the city? Heading out to camp on some dirt roads? Or perhaps both?

SUVs come in car-based models, more aptly known as “crossovers”, or their more rugged predecessors. Crossovers like the Nissan Qashqai and Nissan Murano are lighter, more agile vehicles that have lower ground clearance while offering all-wheel drive and an attractive amount of interior space. While larger model SUVs have the benefit of better off-road capability, power and towing capacity.

Wants

Once you decide on the model of your SUV the sky is the limit when it comes to options and trim line upgrades. Choose from alloy rims, roof racks, moon roofs, advanced safety features, Advanced Drive Assist, Motion Activated Lift Gate, and on and on. Request a brochure from your local dealership and let your imagination run wild.

Budget

It’s best to consider budget during all phases of your SUV search as your needs and wants will impact the end cost of your vehicle. Many dealerships offer an online payment calculator that will calculate your monthly or bi-weekly payments. Your dealership will also have finance specialists that can break down your complete costs in detail.

Make your life easier

Having a life filled with stuff doesn’t have to be complicated or frustrating. Maybe it’s time to think about switching to an SUV so you can start enjoying what you have. Visit www.SuperiorNissan.ca to check out their latest line up of SUVs designed to make life simple for Northerners.