4x4 For You

From the mountainside to the school-run, the 4x4 is the vehicle of choice for millions of motorists across the world.

The 4x4 started life as a practical yet austere beast of burden for those working around hard-to-reach locations, Yet since appearing as the Jeep and the Land Rover during the 1940s, the 4x4 has come a long way, and is now popular as a main form of transport, even among those who never drive off-road.

So could a 4x4 be a good investment? Sue Robinson, franchised dealer director for the Retail Motor Industry Federation (RMIF) certainly thinks so: ‘4x4 vehicles are good for the winter months, but they are also practical all year-round.’

Robinson continues: ‘The wide range of prices within the 4x4 market means that there will be a vehicle to suit those working on a range of budgets. The sector goes from the height of luxury to the more basic and practical models.’

Four-wheel drive vehicles have a number of common features, to which their continuing success has been attributed:

optimum safety features
comfortable and easy to drive
high driving position, allowing greater all-round visibility and extra space
power distributed between four wheels - can be permanent or selected by a switch, making it ideal for erratic conditions
The range of vehicles available is very wide. The only real limit will be how much the prospective buyer wishes to spend.

Buying New

Popular models currently available include the Toyota RAV-4, the Mitsubishi Shogun Pinin, and the Hyundai Santa Fe.

The Volvo XC90 D5S provides a combination of on-road handling and off-road muscle, and includes an array of safety features.

Porsche, previously known for its on-road sports cars, now offers its own take on the 4x4 in the Cayenne. Other premium manufacturers offering luxury variations on the segment include BMW with its X5, as well as the new X3, and of course Range Rover and Land Rover, whose latest Freelander and Discovery models have been very well received.

As always, the various smaller costs that make up the total cost of a car are numerous, but dealers will try to make things as easy as possible for buyers. Robinson explains: ‘To make the buying process easier, manufacturers will recommend what they call an on-the-road price, made up of ex-works price, VAT, number plate, delivery charges and road fund licence.’

She continues: ‘Once you have bought the 4x4, you should have peace of mind through a warranty. Newly registered cars usually come with a three year warranty, and some even offer a five year warranty.’

Buying Used

The used four-wheel drive market is very healthy, so if your budget does not stretch to one of the more expensive models, there is still plenty of choice. If you are buying a second hand vehicle which has passed beyond the manufacturer warranty, a warranty will be provided by the dealer, or a third party.

Such a warranty can last for between three and 12 months, depending on the age and condition of the vehicle. Dealers belonging to the RMIF are obliged to give a minimum level of warranty as a condition of their membership. However, the length of manufacturer warranties now offered on new vehicles means that when you buy a used vehicle, it may still be covered by that warranty.

Getting a Good Service

Of course, this is not the end, as Robinson explains: ‘The vehicle will need both servicing and occasional maintenance, for which you will need a reputable garage. If the supplying garage is too far away for such jobs, a local RMIF member would be happy to support you with service. All RMIF members pledge to observe the Code of Practice of the Motor Industry. A member will be able to advise you on the type of service you need, and will be able to point out potential problem areas before they arise, or become serious.’

She continues: ‘Whether you want to buy or sell a new or used car or motorcycle, service or repair your existing vehicle, find an auction house, or a cherished number plate dealer, the RMIF will be able to help you.

‘If you have a complaint against an RMIF member garage, the RMIF’s National Conciliation Service should be able to help you get redress if the problem cannot be solved in direct consultation with that member.’