Can't bear the thought of parting company with your Hummer? Yet every single time you head for the pumps, you dry heave at the thought of handing over your credit card to pay the gas tab. Let's think for a New York minute...does it make sense to downsize from a Behemoth to a ride that is smaller and greener? Let's look at the BIG picture.
An eco-friendlier car is more fuel-efficient so making those 'fill 'er up' trips won't be as traumatic. A greener ride also equals lower emissions which is a noteworthy environmental contribution. Smaller vehicles also generally tend to cost less (unless they're a luxe ticket item like a Porsche) and who amongst us wouldn't love to save a buck or two?
Still unsure about making that vehicle switch from bigger to smaller? Ponder no further...
1) Take a look at your vehicle and determine if you really need all of the space it offers. Do you have an SUV that seats 7 when you're only a family of three? Don't overlook comfort! Remember, the smaller vehicle has to be a fit, so if you're a lil' on the plus size, make sure every inch of you is accommodated. Don't forget about the comfy factor when it comes to your family as well.
2) OK, so you need extra cargo space, right? When was the last time you cleaned out your SUV, was it in the year of the flood? Here's a tip, take out all of that unnecessary stuff you've been hoarding in your vehicle; sort through it, then reassess. Find alternative places like in your basement or garage to store that excess 'junk in your trunk.' I bet that after you've sorted through everything in your truck, you'll realize you don't need the extra cubic feet of cargo space after all.
3) Don't think a smaller vehicle will suit your overall needs? Consider renting a smaller car, CUV or SUV for a week to try it on for size. Compare the smaller vehicle to that 'big boy' parked in your driveway. Really get a feel for how the smaller vehicle maneuvers on the road. Park it...park it a few times! Do you like whatcha feel? Does parking a smaller vehicle give you a kind of newfound hassle-free, worry-free thrill?
4) So you think driving a smaller vehicle will be a problem whenever you make those Home Depot runs. Now, answer truthfully...how often do you buy oversized items? Once, twice a year? Did you know that many home improvement stores like Home Depot offer great hourly rates on small rental trucks for when you need to load 'em up.
5) As far as insurance, according to Kelley Blue Book, a large SUV could drive up the cost of your liability premium -- the premium that covers damage to other vehicles involved in accident -- because of its potential to inflict a greater amount of damage on other cars. YIKES! Now here's a great reason to think smaller if you're trying to pocket a few extra dollars.
--Car Chick
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