| There are car models made for just about every | | | | They generally have a good fuel mileage, and can |
| need under the sun and many of them cross over into | | | | carry four or five passengers as well as stow some |
| other model types. Choosing the car model that best | | | | gear. Economy Crossover's are more costly that the |
| suits you can be a daunting task. You must first define | | | | economy small car, but are a lot more functional. |
| your wants and needs, and then choose a car based | | | | Compact SUV – These cars are designed for |
| on these specifications. | | | | more rugged use. The compact SUV often has |
| As well as model choices, the extra features of each | | | | four-wheel-drive and can handle less than favorable |
| vehicle type should also be considered in your | | | | road conditions, but are not designed for heavy |
| selection. What kind of engine do you need? Petrol, | | | | off-road use. There are some trade-offs in fuel |
| diesel, or hybrid power? Do you need economy or | | | | economy and higher base prices when compared to |
| hauling power? What type of transmission - automatic, | | | | crossovers or small cars. |
| manual or auto-manual? How about sound systems, | | | | Mid-sized Coupe or Sedan – The Coupe has bigger |
| air-conditioning, and optional upholstery? The basic | | | | dimensions, more interior space, more comfort for |
| vehicle package often won't include many optional | | | | passengers and better for longer trips. This model can |
| extras that you want, so you may have to outlay | | | | be economical with appropriate engine and |
| more money to ensure you get the features you | | | | transmission choices. The base models will often have |
| want. | | | | more accessories and luxury features but the cost is |
| Features aside, what car is going to be right for you? | | | | generally higher than more compact car models. |
| Here's a brief run-down on some popular car models | | | | Mid-sized SUV – This is like the compact SUV, but |
| and their main features: | | | | with larger dimensions and is more appropriate for |
| Economy or Small Car – This model is typically a | | | | off-road usage, towing and other heavy-duty |
| small two-door hatchback or small car. These types of | | | | activities. The mid-sized SUV can comfortably carry |
| vehicle offer great basic transportation and generally | | | | four of five passengers and their gear on long |
| deliver good fuel mileage. They are great "city cars" | | | | distance trips. The big downside of the mid-sized SUV |
| and are ideal for short trips with up to four passengers. | | | | is the fuel consumption – particularly as we see fuel |
| Economy Crossover – These vehicle models have | | | | prices and global warming concerns on the rise. |
| a more functional body type - think "station wagon". | | | | |