Why do so many Americans drive four-wheel drive vehicles?
Well, I am assuming you’re referring to the large and unecessary 4x4s and SUVs that people decided that they “needed” as soon as they hit the market. Not only are they rugged, but they are also urban tanks. All the cool kids are doing it, so why can’t we? There is a lot of bandwagon-hopping going on. However, there are also a lot of people (like myself) who own and drive all-wheel drive vehicles out of necessity. I live in a very rural area in the northeastern US; it’s hilly, there are lots of frost heaves, and the roads are poorly maintained in bad weather. I need a car with higher clearance and better traction – but I also value the environment and my gas consumption, so I bought an AWD sedan (Subaru Legacy). So, in short, there is demand for more rugged vehicles…but there’s no need to own an Escalade…
