Let's face it, power is important in our lives. Vehicle power is essential. Coupes and sleek sedans were fabulous in the stylish Eighties, but these days everything is about big fat rugged power. Whether you want to drive off-road or on is not always important. Many people are buying rugged off-road vehicles but never stray off their urban roads. It doesn't matter, the off-road vehicle (or truck, or 4x4, or SUV) is the quintessential image of style and sophistication in the 21st century.
Years ago, trucks were pretty basic. You didn't get much to choose from, they all looked about the same and so it was easier to make a purchase. Things have really changed! These days there are so many options you really need to research what's out there before you walk into a dealership. You need to work out what your needs are before deciding between, say, a work truck or something that's more of a luxury vehicle.
Using an Internet search engine and typing in a phrase like "How to choose the best truck" or even simply "About trucks" will bring up many specialty websites that are filled with tips on choosing the right truck for you. These websites will also have reviews of test-drives, detailed specifications of off-road vehicles, and even, information on how to drive them well! If you have a specific manufacturer and make in mind, then just type it into your search engine. For example, typing in "2004 Toyota Tundra Double Cab 4x4", will bring up various websites filled with full vehicle specifications and reports. "Truck World" is a good place to start as it is packed with all sorts of product guides, how-to guides and test-drive reviews.
Most buying advice seems to begin with asking you the following sorts of questions: Do you have a favorite automaker? If so, start there. Do you need a compact (smaller, better gas mileage) or full size (bigger, more engine options available) truck? How much space do you need and what are your seating needs? How long a truck bed do you need? Will you need to tow a trailer or a boat? And finally: What's your budget? Like with all cars, prices vary. Base models start under $20,000 but those luxury and performance trucks cost a lot more.
Be sure to have your answers to the above questions ready at hand, so that when you are browsing the Internet, you'll know your needs and will be better able to sift through all the information. Arm yourself with all the information available to you before you head into a dealer and go for a test drive. You should be pretty close to knowing which is the best off-road vehicle for your needs before you take your first test drive!
Dean Erickson. Journalist, and web site builder Dean Erickson lives in Texas. He is the owner and co-editor of http://www.4x4offroad-central.com on which you will find a longer, more detailed version of this article.