How To Choose the Right Utility Vehicle for Your Property
Utility vehicles are valuable pieces of equipment for casual driving, hauling equipment, or recreational off-roading. However, several factors go into determining what type of vehicle is best for you and your needs or which ones may not suit your current location. Here are some of the biggest things to consider when you’re wondering how to choose the right utility vehicle for your property.
General Purpose
Before you start shopping, it’s a good idea to make a list of the “what, where, who, and how” that you plan to put your utility vehicle through. For example, if you’re looking for something to transport multiple people, there may be better options than an ATV. If you need to drive your vehicle around an area with hilly terrain, you may need something more powerful than the average golf cart.
You don’t necessarily need to know every detail about what your utility vehicle will endure throughout its life, but having a rough idea is a great starting point. Do you need a vehicle for work, transportation, recreation, or some other purpose? You want to avoid investing in one type of vehicle only to discover it doesn’t suit your purposes.
Your Terrain
The terrain is one of the most vital things to consider when choosing the right utility vehicle for your property. Do you live in an area with several hills or rougher terrain from tree roots and forest paths? Many utility vehicles operate best on specific terrain, and you want to do everything you can to avoid a rollover.
If you live in a flat area, you may not need as much power, meaning a golf cart could be a safer option. Even when a vehicle claims to be all-terrain, it’s smart to consider what type of terrain you face and which piece of equipment will work best in that environment. Opting for a vehicle that can’t handle everyday requirements could lead you to spend money on additional equipment later.
Passenger Capacity
How many people do you plan on ferrying in your utility vehicle? If you work alone or have a single passenger, options like ATVs could be up your alley. Maybe you want a cart with seating for up to six or even eight passengers.
Additional seating is one of the things to consider when looking for the right utility vehicle for you. Typically, the more seating you have, the less practical the vehicle is for activities other than joyriding, so that’s something to bear in mind. If you want to travel with more guests, you may need to sacrifice a little more in terms of power or maneuverability or make a larger financial investment. Personnel transport vehicles and shuttles are a fantastic option for navigating the golf course with friends and bringing cargo along.
Different Utility Vehicle Types
Once you consider vital aspects like the terrain, passenger capacity, and general purpose, you can narrow down what type of utility vehicle best works for your needs. If you still need to decide which options work best for you, here’s a small rundown of some of the most common types of utility vehicles on the market.
Golf Cart
Golf carts are an excellent option if you’re looking for general usage. These carts are often among the most cost-effective options and have enough power and speed to perform some hauling of materials or boxes.
Golf carts are one of the best options for carrying multiple people—many golf carts can safely transport four-to-eight passengers on a ride, depending on the size. A notable disadvantage of golf carts is that they’re noticeably lacking in power and maneuverability. Carts work better on flat surfaces or light slopes and can have trouble with steeper inclines or rougher terrain.
If you live in a residential area and want a utility vehicle for exploring with friends or basic hauling, a golf cart may be an ideal option for you. Golf carts come in many different brands and styles, so you may want to take that into consideration. Cushman utility vehicles are sturdy and reliable golf carts that offer efficiency and versatility.
ATV
All-Terrain Vehicles, or ATVs, come in a wide variety of builds and classes, but many people know the standard class ATV as a four-wheeler. ATVs are powerful carts that are suitable for rougher or steeper terrain, as the name implies.
Unlike many other carts, most ATVs use a handlebar steering method that’s closer to a bicycle than a steering wheel on a car or other common utility vehicle. ATVs are capable of hauling and towing things, but these vehicles may require an additional investment if you want to hook up a trailer or rack on the back. Unlike many other vehicle options, ATVs are not ideal for carrying multiple passengers and typically only allow space for one passenger.
UTV
UTVs or Utility Terrain Vehicles are among the best options when searching for a utility vehicle for your property. UTVs offer the power and speed of an ATV with the passenger capacity and general build of a golf cart. UTVs come in a wider variety of styles and power, making it easier to find one that works for you.
The most notable disadvantage of a UTV over other types of utility vehicle options is they tend to have a larger price tag. Less powerful models may be more affordable, but you may find a more affordable ATV with better capabilities. If you have room in your budget for a more powerful UTV, it may be one of the better options on the market for you.
When you need help finding the ideal style and brand of a utility vehicle for your property, reach out to Ben Nelson Golf & Outdoor. We have served the fine folks of Mississippi and Tennessee for over 15 years. Contact us today to speak with a specialist, or visit one of our dealerships directly for more information. Whether you’re seeking an outdoor vehicle for recreational purposes or a piece of equipment that helps you accomplish your work goals, we’re happy to help.
