SUV Phenomenon

There seems a growing trend of SUV’s becoming the family car.  It is especially the case of those made by prestigious European brands.  Not sure why.  Perhaps being higher off the road is the main attraction, or an ego thing.  I thought being higher off the road represents a desire to go off the road.

But can you imagine taking an Audi, Porsche, Mercedes or Renault SUV off the road?  I doubt it.  Especially one with shiny rims as they all seem to have as a standard feature from the factory.

Sporting a European SUV might suggest an eye for quality, superior engineering.  Yet the BMW version is not good off road, if you take the word of Jeremy Clarkson on Top Gear.  As a result it can’t be considered superior engineering for an on road car as its SUV features usually detract from its on road capabilities.

So you’re left with an overpriced status symbol.  If that’s what you want then good for you.  But there are plenty of worthwhile alternatives.  How about a Toyota Landcruiser for proper off road capabilities.  If you want European then go for the sedan of your favourite make.  The Subaru Forrester is a good compromise of road and all wheel drive, plus its very reliable.  But if you must go an SUV then consider a Ford Territory, it’s cheaper and arguably better.