Women make up 62% of the buyers’ market for new cars in the United States. Female-led shopping is the driving force behind many of the features on a new car. Manufacturers and car designers understand that women have diverse needs regarding horsepower, storage, or simply the joy of heated seats on a chilly winter morning.
Where men tend to seek out more torque and towing strength, women often prioritize safety features and a vehicle that offers more flexibility and convenience, fitting into the challenges of daily life. Why shouldn’t women enjoy a relaxing ride that is just as capable of going off-road in the morning as transporting a friend’s group to the beach for a sunset hangout? Here are some of the best insider tips for finding a female-friendly SUV, as well as how to better manage cross country car shipping.
Choosing the Best Female-Friendly SUV for Your Next Adventure
#1 – Prioritize Safety Rating & Features
Before landing on a quote or estimate on price, check out the safety features of the SUV. Roughly 76% of women prioritize car safety features over other aspects, such as aesthetics or the presence of a sunroof.
Take the time to read up on the IIHS “Top Safety Pick” or NHTSA 5-star crash test ratings. Look closely to see if the SUV has blind spot detection, rear cross-traffic alerts, lane-keeping assist, emergency braking, or a 360-degree camera system.
SUVs tend to be designed with a bulkier frame. Having airbags in the right place or a reinforced frame system, such as those found in trucks, goes a long way in ensuring everyone remains safe inside the vehicle.
#2 – Seating & Cargo Flexibility
Yes, women want cargo space for kids, but they are just as likely to have pets, friends, and family as men. One of the reasons to purchase an SUV and hire the best car transport shipping companies is the added storage or seating available from a larger crossover vehicle.
Getting up to 7 passengers in the SUV isn’t the only metric. Consider whether the rear seats fold flat or how a stroller and sports gear will fit in the back. If the SUV offers hands-free rearranging like an automatic liftgate or simplified seat changes, all the better. Even compact or midsize SUVs offer hidden storage or under-floor compartments that can make all the difference when traveling, shopping, and adventuring.
#3 – Consider Ergonomics for Smaller Frames
Women, on average, are about 15% to 20% smaller than men. SUVs are often designed for larger frames, targeting taller and broader drivers. That can be incredibly frustrating for petite buyers needing to “stretch out” to reach the pedals.
Make sure the SUV in question has tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel control or a driver’s seat with full height adjustment. When scheduling a test drive or having a remote friend drive the SUV before shipping it, ensure that the door handles and controls are within reach.
In some rare cases, purchasing an SUV with running boards can be a viable choice if the step-in height is improved. Just make sure to note that feature on any domestic shipping logistics manifest so they remain up during transit.
#4 – Get the Tech for Added Convenience
Good technology that makes the ride more relaxing and accessible lowers the stress of driving, even in busier city environments. Having something like Apple CarPlay or Android Auto means every woman can answer important work calls or catch up with a friend without worrying about distractions.
An SUV with voice command controls, remote starters (especially in hot or cold climates), and plenty of USB chargers for devices, allowing everyone inside the vehicle the latest tech comforts. Most base trims will have these features, so don’t overpay and compare a private sale to buying from a dealership.
#5 – Prioritize a Maneuverable SUV
The larger SUV size can also lead to parking woes for even the most experienced drivers. Parallel parking in a busy city center is just as stressful for women as it is for men. It may be beneficial to try out more compact or midsize SUVs that offer plenty of interior space while also fitting well into city driving.
If going with the larger model fits your lifestyle better, make sure the turning radius (about 38 feet for city areas) is appropriate and there are assistive systems in the car like parking sensors, rearview cameras, auto parking, or steering assistance.
#6 – Avoid the “Pink Tax”
Women pay $142 more per year than men for car ownership. For some ridiculous reason, everyone from dealer salespeople to mechanics thinks women know less than men about car features and maintenance. Avoid the “Pink Tax” by obtaining multiple price quotes for a car purchase and cross country car shipping. If possible, use women-focused buying services or bring a friend who is knowledgeable about negotiating prices in your favor.
Go into the buying process fully aware that some people will try to upsell women more than men and be prepared with information, comparative insight, warranty questions, and more to throw them off their game.
Smart Strategies for Cross Country Car Shipping Services
Once you’ve found the perfect female-friendly SUV, it’s time to get it back home so you can enjoy all the features you spent so much time researching. Good car shipping companies will offer a “paint by numbers” of how to prepare the SUV and what documentation is needed to comply with interstate transport laws.
A decision will need to be made about whether to use open or enclosed car transport. Open options tend to be less expensive and easier to book because they expose the SUV to weather and road conditions. Enclosed protects the investment a bit more, but may require advanced booking to secure a spot.
Women can save good money by being flexible with pickup and delivery dates. However, make sure any agreed location is well-lit, public, and adds a layer of safety. Bring a friend or have a trusted stand-in available if necessary.
Any car shipping company you work with should require a full inspection before and after delivery. That might involve taking photos, conducting a “walkaround” with the driver, exchanging contact information, and double-checking documentation (such as ID, insurance, and bill of sale).
Ask for verification of experience. All the best auto transport services will have FMCSA or DOT certification. Most will also offer optional insurance coverage in the event of cosmetic damage. When you’re reading reviews, look at how many women use those transport services. The more positive female reviews, the better service for female-specific needs.
Insider Advice: What Female Travelers Should Know Before Hitting the Road
Buying an SUV is a wonderful adventure that opens up new travel destinations that regular cars cannot access. Whether on a solo road trip or traveling for business, there are some female- specific tips to get the most out of the new ride.
*Pack smart by using all the storage and compartment space wisely so there is enough leftover room for guests, pets, and shopping.
*Always keep an emergency kit in the SUV, including tire repair tools, portable jump starters, flashlights, basic tools, duct tape, and first aid supplies.
*Keep a paper map or an offline set of directions in case the built-in navigation fails.
If nothing else, consider joining a women-led community on Facebook, Reddit, TikTok, or in your local area. Women are happy to share insights into what SUV models or driving tricks help make the entire experience more enjoyable.
Find the SUV Fit to a Woman’s Lifestyle
Buying an SUV isn’t just about size or visual design. It’s about landing on those specific features that speak to the driver’s needs. A great SUV will have a combination of safety, comfort, tech, and reliability that matches any female-led decision-making.
Once the buy is finished, be sure to find a car shipping company backed by a wide network of professional drivers and strong customer reviews. That will make the experience all the sweeter when the brand-new SUV shows up at your doorstep, ready to transport you on a thrilling new adventure.
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