./ 3 WAGON OR UTE - Continued
Lets just diverge to look at the matter of size . Does size matter ?
Depending on what you are towing , and to stay legal , yes size does matter . There are a few variables to consider , the most valid being relevant to both wagon & ute . Do I really need a large wagon or ute ? Only you can answer this based on what you are intending to tow . Yes , we all have heard the argument that states - ‘ A bigger wagon or ute doesn ’ t work as hard '. There is a funny quirk to this ! As in human nature we are inclined to live to our means and likewise , we also tend to tow to our maximum capacity ! The bigger the tow vehicle , the more storage area that can , and probably will be filled . Now depending on what you intend to tow - A suggestion , always take into consideration your initial vehicle purchase cost , devaluation , and then ongoing maintenance and running costs . Food for thought ?
On the subject of towing -
So , what comes first , the horse or the cart ? It ' s may be worth considering the cart first ! The purchase of a caravan or trailer prior to purchasing the tow vehicle may assist you to decide the best vehicle type suited to your future lifestyle . Take into consideration all aspects in which your new vehicle is going to be used . These could include , domestic duties , towing and other specific motoring activities in which you might be involved e . g . a 4WD Club . Who knows , a large V8 twin turbo ute may be the most appropriate vehicle for your overall requirements .
Day to Day Drivability – Wagon
Now here is where the difference between a wagon and ute can differ somewhat . There are a few plus ’ s for the wagon over and above the security . Passenger space and the increased carrying capacity for up to 8 persons is a big plus for families who may be carting kids to and from school and sporting activities . Also , a wagon could have easier manoeuvrability into car parks , and be more convenient for loading the various items into the back . Ride , though not as soft as a upmarket standard passenger vehicle , is however comfortable in standard form . As noted previously , after market heavy duty suspension may be required if towing heavy trailers . Some manual operating rear doors can be difficult and heavy to open / close , especially when on a slope . Lift or mechanically assisted opening doors are a great assistance but logically come at a price – top end models . Two other considerations - Reversing into a park will restrict rear door opening , and when hooked up to a caravan or trailer , check that the rear door will clear the fitted tow ball type installed
Minimum access to rear of vehicle due to the one piece rear door obstructed by the height of A frame .
Day to Day Drivability - Ute
A big plus for the tradie ' s is the ute . Work & Play as per the clever advertising directed towards tradies and workers who specifically need a utility . Sure you have to off load your work gear on Friday and reload on Monday , and some running costs may be higher – but the ute offers the versatility for Work & Play . Some of the down sides , despite the security issues is parking . Most utes are longer than 4WD wagons and this is most noticeable in shopping centre car parks . The nose or back of the utes tend to stand out of the standard car park . Internally , rear legroom can be an issue for taller persons , but would not be an issue for younger family members . As mentioned , utes are designed primarily for commercial applications , thus a solid ride and less soundproofing can be experienced . As a suggestion , perhaps the family could be part of the test drive over various surface types and include test parking as part of the decision making process . And , just one other item which might be a positive for some - there are accessories aplenty for your ute ! Like the flare and bulge look ? There is so much aftermarket plastic add on accessories available to give your ute the rough and tough look - Never mind that in most cases , the motor and running gear remain standard on all model ranges !
Note – Additional length required for a utility within an average parking space .