3 Important Things You Need to Consider When You're Shopping for a Utility Vehicle

A UTV, or "utility vehicle" is a four-wheel vehicle that's akin to an "all-terrain vehicle" (ATV). It's basically a small truck with an open body. Utility vehicles are mainly used for hauling, pushing, towing, and other rugged tasks. Some of the best-known utility vehicles are the John Deere Gator, Kawasaki Mule and Polaris Ranger. Read this informative article and learn about the 3 important things you need to consider when you're shopping for a utility vehicle!

1. Should I Buy a New or Good-Used Utility Vehicle?

Ordinarily, I wouldn't buy a good-used utility vehicle. These vehicles are built for handling use and abuse. And that's exactly what they get. I have yet to see a good-used utility vehicle for sale that was in decent shape. The tires are often bald, the bodies are scratched and dented, the cargo boxes are scratched, dented, and rusty,
and the lights and other accessories don't work. You just know from the ragged looks that the engine has taken a beating as well.

You may think you can't afford a new utility vehicle. But the major manufacturers of utility vehicles make them quite affordable to buy. Take the John Deere Gator Utility Vehicles, for example. According to the company website, you can buy a brand-new Gator for $55 to $100 a month, depending on what type you choose.

2. What's the Best Engine for My Utility Vehicle- Gasoline, Diesel or Electric?

a) Gasoline engines are the most common type. If you want your utility vehicle to have a gas engine, you'll have a large pool to choose from. They're powerful and they're quick and easy to refuel.

b) Diesel engines are just finding their place in utility vehicles. The Kawasaki Mule 3010 Diesel 4X4 Off-Highway Utility Vehicle and the John Deere Diesel Trail Gator 6X4 are two examples. Choose a diesel engine, and your choices will be greatly limited.

A utility vehicle with a diesel engine will use less fuel than a gasoline engine. It will also pull heavy loads easier. The biggest disadvantage of buying a diesel utility vehicle is that the fuel is harder to find, although it's usually cheaper than gas.

c) Electric engines are the "greenest" way to go if you're concerned about the environment. Choose a utility vehicle that runs by electric, and you'll have the quietest power. The cheapest too! But, this type of utility vehicle also has a limited running time. It can take hours to recharge the batteries so you can get going again. Plus, a utility vehicle with an electric engine won't have the "get-up-and-go" that a gasoline or diesel engine has.

3. What Will I Use My Utility Vehicle For?

Another important thing to consider when you're shopping for a utility vehicle is, what will you use it for? If you're going to transport people, then you'll need a utility vehicle that has a seating capacity of at least four passengers. If you're looking for power to climb hills and over rough domain, shop for a four-wheel drive instead of a two-wheel drive utility vehicle. As for the cargo bed, some are stationary, while others are dump beds.

Note: All product names are trademarked by their respective companies.

Resources
http://www.deere.com/en_US/ProductCatalog/GC/category/GC_UV.html
http://www.buyerzone.com/transportation/utility-vehicles/buyers_guide3.html