Choosing between an SUV, a sedan, a truck or a minivan is one of the biggest decisions when buying a used vehicle. The best answer depends on how you drive, who rides with you and what you carry. Here is a quick guide for drivers in North Charleston and the Lowcountry.
Sedans: efficient and easy to park
Sedans are usually the most fuel-efficient choice and tend to be easier to park around downtown Charleston. They are a good fit for commuters and small households. If you mostly drive on the highway or around town and do not need much cargo room, a sedan can keep fuel and running costs down. Browse our used cars under $5,000 to see what is available.
SUVs: space and a higher seating position
SUVs offer more cargo space, a higher seating position and often more passenger room. They are popular with families and with anyone who carries gear for beach trips, sports or road trips. Some come with all-wheel or four-wheel drive. See our used SUVs in North Charleston.
Trucks: hauling and towing
If you tow a trailer, haul tools or need an open bed, a truck makes sense. Check the towing capacity for the exact model and the condition of the suspension and tires. Look at our used trucks and minivans.
Minivans: room for the whole family
Minivans are hard to beat for families. Sliding doors make loading kids and cargo easier in tight parking spots, and they often offer the most interior space for the money.
Questions to ask yourself
- How many people do I carry most days?
- What do I haul or tow, and how often?
- How long is my commute, and how much does fuel matter?
- What is my total budget, including insurance and maintenance?
- Do I need all-wheel or four-wheel drive, or is two-wheel drive enough?
Think about running costs
Larger vehicles usually cost more to fuel, insure and maintain. Compare the total cost of ownership, not just the purchase price. Older vehicles can also need more repairs, so ask about service history and consider an inspection.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need four-wheel drive in Charleston?
Most Lowcountry driving is on flat, paved roads, so two-wheel drive is enough for many people. Four-wheel or all-wheel drive can help in heavy rain or on unpaved roads, but it adds cost and complexity.
Which vehicle type is cheapest to run?
Sedans are generally the most economical to fuel and insure, though the exact cost depends on the model, age and condition.
Is a higher-mileage vehicle a bad idea?
Not necessarily. A well-maintained high-mileage vehicle can be a better choice than a low-mileage one that was neglected. Service records and an inspection tell you more than the odometer alone.
See them in person
The best way to decide is to sit in a few different body styles and take them for a drive. Visit Lamar Auto Sales at 4380 Dorchester Road in North Charleston, SC 29405, call us at (843) 800-0306, or browse our current inventory. We’re open Monday to Friday 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM and Saturday 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, and closed on Sunday.
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