If I Was Buying An SUV, Here’s What I’d Be Looking For

SUVs remain hugely popular with Irish buyers, both new and used. From compact crossovers to large family SUVs and electric models, there’s an SUV for almost every lifestyle and budget, and plenty of value to be found on the used car market too.

Some of the most popular SUVs on the Irish new car market in 2026 are the Toyota Yaris Cross, Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage, Skoda Kodiaq, Volkswagen Tiguan and Nissan Qashqai.

I recently shared some quick SUV buying tips in a short video, but here’s a more detailed breakdown of the things I’d genuinely focus on if I was buying an SUV today.

Watch The Video

1. How Big Is The Boot?

Boot space is one of the biggest reasons people move into an SUV in the first place, but appearances can be deceptive.

Some SUVs look massive on the outside yet don’t offer as much usable luggage space as you’d expect. Others are cleverly packaged and surprisingly practical.

If I was buying an SUV, I’d be thinking about:

  • Weekly shopping
  • Family holidays
  • Buggies and prams
  • Sports gear
  • Dog space
  • Rear seats folding flat

A powered tailgate and adjustable boot floor are nice bonuses too.

Look for boot space and flexibility like rear seats that fold flat
Look for boot space and flexibility like rear seats that fold flat

2. How Comfortable And Spacious Is It For Passengers?

A good SUV should be comfortable for everyone, not just the driver.

Rear seat space varies hugely between models, so I’d always check:

  • Rear legroom
  • Headroom
  • Ease of getting in and out
  • Middle seat comfort
  • Rear air vents and USB ports

If you regularly carry adults or teenagers, rear passenger comfort becomes very important on longer journeys.

And if you need seven seats, make sure the third row is actually usable.

Two extra seats in the Jogger's third row
Check how comfortable the seats are, especially the extra seats in seven-seat SUVs

3. What Sort Of Features Does It Have?

Modern SUVs are packed with technology, but not all trims come equally equipped.

Some of the features I’d look for include:

  • Heated seats
  • Keyless entry
  • Reversing camera
  • Parking sensors
  • Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
  • Adaptive cruise control
  • Heated steering wheel
  • Panoramic roof

A good reversing camera is especially useful for parking and for safety when reversing.

A good touchscreen with smartphone connectivity is a must
A good touchscreen with smartphone connectivity is a great feature to have

4. How Efficient Is It And What Will Running Costs Be Like?

Running costs matter just as much as the purchase price.

I’d be looking closely at:

  • Fuel economy
  • Motor tax
  • Insurance
  • Tyre costs
  • Servicing costs

The right engine depends on your driving and preferences.

Electric

Electric cars are rising in popularity and range anxiety is not such an issue anymore with many new vehicles capable of 400-500 kilometres real-world range and more.

Buying an electric SUV will require installing a charge port at home for convenience and keeping costs down.

Diesel

Still makes sense for high motorway mileage and long-distance drivers.

Petrol

Petrol cars are a good option if you do a lot of short trips and lower annual mileage.

Hybrid

A great middle ground for many Irish families at the moment with good fuel economy and flexibility for longer trips.

Efficiency can vary massively between SUVs, so check the brochure and also Irish car reviews for real-world fuel economy.

Sales of plug-in hybrids and battery electric vehicles are growing rapidly across Europe
Choose a fuel type that suits your lifestyle whether that’s petrol, diesel, electric or hybrid

5. How Does It Drive?

Not every SUV is enjoyable to drive.

Some feel composed, refined and easy to manoeuvre. Others can feel heavy and awkward, especially around town.

During a test drive, I’d pay attention to:

  • Visibility
  • Steering feel
  • Ride comfort
  • Road noise
  • Parking ease
  • Acceleration
  • Body roll in corners

And always test drive the exact engine and trim you’re considering.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC is on sale now
Take the SUV for a test drive to see what it’s like to drive

6. What Sort Of Warranty And Reliability Record Does It Have?

Long-term peace of mind is hugely important when buying any car.

Before buying, I’d check:

  • Length of warranty
  • Service intervals
  • Reliability reputation
  • Battery warranty for hybrids and EVs
  • Car history check for used cars

Some brands offer warranties of up to seven years, which can make a big difference when ownership costs are considered over time.

Reading owner reviews and reliability surveys can also give useful real-world insight.

Thinking of buying an SUV? There are a few things to consider like space, efficiency and reliability
Thinking of buying an SUV? There are a few things to consider like space, efficiency and reliability

___________

Written by Caroline Kidd

Founder and Editor of Changing Lanes, Juror for Irish Car of the Year