10 Reasons to Buy New Continued 

Selection
As the economy has rebounded and fuel prices have leveled off, not only are more automakers making trucks and SUVs, but each company is creating a vast array of models tailored to specific needs and price points. Sure, you can still get your base work truck model with the black plastic grille, steel wheels and vinyl seats, but truck buyers in particular have much better access to the “Cowboy Cadillacs” coming with a plush interior you’d expect from a luxury car and a price tag to match (see our recent Ram 2500 review). Similarly, SUV buyers not only have access to more upscale utility vehicles from mainstream automakers, but there is an ever-growing trend of SUVs coming from traditional luxury automakers bringing an impressive level of style, elegance and even performance.

Features
Along with the selection of vehicles and trim levels, modern trucks and SUVs also afford buyers a generous selection of equipment. Just a handful of years ago, the idea of a “well-equipped” truck or SUV included power windows, fake leather and an AM-FM stereo. Today, you can get just about everything from navigation, infotainment and rear seat entertainment systems to the latest driver assistance features including blind spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control. On top of that, automakers are always looking for new ways to make truck and SUV ownership easier like Ford’s tailgate step on its pickup trucks, GM’s power retractable side steps on its full-size SUVs or the multitude of SUVs now offering power liftgates.

Fuel Efficiency
It’s hard to think of a big truck or SUV as a fuel-efficient vehicle, but advancements in powertrain and aerodynamics have allowed automakers to provide the same utility from these vehicles while adding a surprising level of fuel efficiency. Most automakers are making a push toward technologies such as direct injection, diesel engines, turbocharging and transmissions with up to 10 speeds, and these are all helping to boost the fuel economy of some of the largest passenger vehicles on the market to levels once reserved for your typical family sedan. Aerodynamics also play a key role in a vehicle’s fuel economy, and modern trucks and SUVs are spending more time in the wind tunnel for optimal aero as well as adding trick features such as active grille shutters or automatically lowering suspension that help reduce drag at highway speeds.

10 Reasons to Buy New