Sometimes the only vehicle that will get the job done is an SUV. Renting one locally can save the expense of purchase, but make sure the rental fits all of your needs.
1. Functional Seating
Always ask about functional seating for the model of SUV you will be renting. Seating in an SUV can vary greatly, with some seating only five comfortably and others able to seat up to eight people. If you will have more than four or five adults in the vehicle, it's vital that you choose an SUV that has enough seats and seat belts for everyone.
2. Cargo Space
Generally, an SUV will provide a lot more cargo space than a car or even a minivan, but not all SUVs are created equal. In some models, you may be left with very little cargo space if you must utilize third-row seating, for example. Verify the actual functional cargo space of the model you are using. It may be possible to increase needed cargo space by renting an SUV with a rooftop storage rack or a rooftop storage pod, for example.
3. 4WD vs AWD
Most SUVs feature four-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive. For standard use where additional traction may be needed, such as on icy, slick, or dirt roads, then AWD is sufficient. It works by providing power to all four tires and automatically adjusting the amount of power per tire for the road conditions. A 4WD vehicle provides power to all four tires equally and at all times. This is better suited to off-road and extremely muddy driving conditions. Make sure the SUV you rent is equipped with the option that will best fit your needs.
4. Towing Restrictions
SUVs are often rented both for the interior space and for their towing capabilities, and many rental services rent SUVs with tow packages installed. If this is your goal, you still need to verify that the SUV you are renting can safely tow the trailer or equipment that you are planning to haul. Towing capacity and hitch size and style are the two most important factors to consider.
5. Tire Quality
Always check the SUV's tires before driving it off the lot, particularly if you are planning to be off-road or to drive on rough roads. An SUV's tires should all be the same size and make, and they should show similar amounts of wear and wear patterns. Verify that the tread is in good condition and that there are no bulges or cracks on the tire sidewalls.
Contact a locally owned SUV rental service, such as Elite Kauai Car Rental, for more assistance.
Share24 September 2021
Hello. My name’s Samuel Jacobs. I retired from my job as an auto mechanic last year. During my years as a mechanic, I had the opportunity to meet people from all walks of life. Some have remained friends to this day. When I was working, there is one thing that I came across at least weekly. That is how uneducated people are when it comes to their vehicle’s tires. Properly cared for tires are crucial to the safety of your vehicle. Without them, your car isn’t going anywhere. If they give out on you while you are driving, there is the potential for serious injury. I’m going to share some tire safety information here. Things like the importance of correct inflation, how to check the tread, when to replace tires, tire rotation, and what to do in case of a blow-out. I hope you find this information to be helpful.