Need a new ride, but not sure which type of car is right for you? With so many different brands and models to choose from, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed when shopping for a new vehicle. Just where do you start? One way to help you narrow down your options could be to consider your lifestyle. Certain vehicles are better suited to certain locations, activities and personal goals. This post outlines just a few different types of vehicle owner and the best types of vehicle to choose for each. 

Photo Credit: Pexels/Stephen Andrews

The city slicker

City living comes with its challenges, and you need a vehicle that can overcome these challenges. Not only do you need a vehicle that can deal with the narrow streets and limited parking, but also one that is not too expensive and suitable for potential emissions restrictions. When choosing the perfect city vehicle, you may therefore want to consider:

• Compactness: A small vehicle will be able to more easily navigate tight lanes, plus you’ll be able to fit into parking spaces that other cars can’t.

• Great maneuverability: A vehicle with a tight turning circle could help you to more easily navigate tricky city corners and densely packed parking lots. 

• Eco-friendliness: Electric and hybrid vehicles are excellent for cities, because you may not have to worry about emissions charges – plus some cities have free parking and charging spots for EVs. 

Compact hybrid coupes may be some of the best cars for zipping around a city. Other small vehicles like motorbikes and mopeds are also great for cities if you don’t need to carry passengers.

The road tripper

Prefer to live for the open road? Those who regularly go on long journeys may require a vehicle that’s a little more spacious and that has plenty of range. A few factors that may be important to road tripper’s vehicle could include:

• Comfortable seating: Long journeys are likely to be much easier to endure if you’ve got plush seats with plenty of elbow room.

• Spacious cargo: Having enough trunk space for luggage, camping gear or souvenirs from your travels could be a must. 

• Fuel efficiency: It’s essential that your vehicle has a large tank and doesn’t guzzle gas. Electric cars may not be suitable due to limited range.

Spacious crossovers and fuel-efficient modern hatchbacks tend to be the best option for a road tripper. RVs of course can be great too – allowing the option to sleep and live in your vehicle.

The outdoor adventurer

Closely related to the road tripper is the outdoor adventurer. This type of road user is into activities like hiking, cycling and camping – and is therefore more likely to need a vehicle that can tackle rugged terrain and carry outdoor adventure equipment. A few features worth looking for could include:

• All terrain driving: An all-wheel drive vehicle with a higher suspension will be able to tackle rugged country roads or coastal tracks more easily. 

• Additional storage: Beyond ample trunk space, it could be useful for an outdoor adventurer’s vehicle to have roof racks for surfboards or kayaks, or bicycle racks on the back. 

• Easy-to-clean interior: Any dirt or grit you bring into your vehicle after outdoor activities needs to be able to be easily cleaned off the interior. 

Sturdy SUVs are an excellent choice of vehicle for outdoor adventurers. Pickup trucks could also be an option to consider. 

The business runner

Need a vehicle that you can use for business purposes? The best suited vehicle may depend on the nature of your business. However, there are a few key factors that are likely to be worth considering:

• Professional image: You need a vehicle in good condition that looks smart in order to create a professional image and win over the trust of clients.

• Business equipment storage: Being able to carry bulky business gear could be necessary. Large cargo space or a tow bar for a trailer could be useful in many trades. 

• Useful tech features: Certain tech features could be useful for working on the go such as bluetooth for making hands-free calls and in-built wi-fi for connecting your devices in remote locations. 

Vans are one of the most popular and practical options for business owners. Other types of business may benefit from specialist vehicles like tow trucks or pickup trucks. Look for a relatively new vehicle that’s in good condition and has up-to-date tech features.

The family hauler

Having a vehicle that can accommodate a crowd could be useful if you have kids or pets. Whether you just need something for the school run or are looking for a vehicle for family vacations, here are some of the key features to consider:

• Seating capacity: Some vehicles have multiple rows of seats and may be able to accommodate seven or more passengers. 

• Safety features: To protect your family, choose a vehicle with advanced safety features like a rear facing camera, child safety locks and plenty of airbags.

• On-board entertainment: Consider a car with bluetooth connectivity or even extra screens. This will keep the little ones occupied on long drives.

Mid-sized SUVs are some of the most popular mom-mobiles due to their roominess and safety features. A minivan could also be an option to consider. Explore newer models to get the best level of safety and entertainment features. 

The budget-conscious commuter

If you’re looking to own a vehicle on a tight budget, then it could be important to choose a vehicle that helps you to drive down costs. Some of the important features to consider in this situation could include:

• Affordable: A lower value vehicle can save you money upfront and save you money in the long run (if you decide to buy a vehicle on finance). 

• Fuel efficiency: Saving money at the fuel pump could be important too. Avoid anything that guzzles fuel. 

• Low maintenance costs: While older cars can be cheaper to buy, be wary of the condition – you don’t want to spend lots of money on repairs. 

Compact sedans will help you maximize your budget while getting from A to B. Look for a vehicle that’s not too old but not too new either – this will help you save money upfront and save money in the long run. 

The luxury lover

 Don’t mind spending extra to enjoy a few luxuries? A few of the following features could be better suited to your needs:

• Superior comfort: Look for vehicles with a spacious interior, heated seats and climate control technology.

• Entertainment features: Features like a high quality sound system and large infotainment screen for watching movies could be worth looking into.

• High end materials: To add to that luxury feel, look for vehicles made from high quality materials (e.g. interiors that use premium leather and wood)/ 

There are many high-end SUVs and luxury sedans that can provide the sophisticated driving experience you’re after. Try to opt for something relatively modern for up-to-date tech and upholstery that is still good quality.