It's not easy to decide what kind of vehicle you should get for your next purchase. There is some utility and function that you get with a sport utility vehicle, but many new auto buyers today are looking at the benefits of downsizing to a smaller vehicle. If you have not taken a close look at the modern styles of sport utility vehicles on the market today, however, you may be surprised at what the latest styles offer. Here are five things you can expect from an SUV today.

1. Improved Gas Mileage

Not too many years ago, it was not uncommon for most models of SUVs to get significantly lower gas mileage ratings than mid-sized cars. Many of today's models, however, have been designed with fuel efficiency in mind. There are quite a few models available to choose from that offer fuel efficiency comparable to what many mid-sized cars offer.

2. Luxury Features

Sport utility vehicles may have the word "sport" in them, but many of them are loaded with luxury features that make your time on the road far more enjoyable. Many models come standard with luxury features like satellite radio, GPS, heated seats, a DVD player for your passengers, and more. Those models that don't offer these and other features as standard equipment do generally offer them as an option.

3. Space for Everyone

SUVs today offer seating for between five and eight people in most cases. While some of the larger cars also offer seating for five, they often lack the extra headroom and leg room that an SUV offers. For families with older kids or those who simply don't want to cram passengers into tight seating quarters, an SUV is a great option to consider. Further, most offer a significant amount of storage space as well.

4. A Size for All Needs

A sport utility vehicle is certainly a great choice for families as they provide plenty of space for the kids and even a few of their friends in the back seat. However, even singles and couples without kids are enjoying the benefits of an SUV. Today, there are smaller and larger sized SUVs, making it easy to find the right model to fit your own needs.

5. Functionality

While many people do buy an SUV because of the extra seating they provide, these are vehicles that offer plenty of other functional uses as well. Most are loaded with the same power you would get in a smaller or mid-sized truck, making them ideal for pulling a boat or trailer. Many also feature rear seating that folds down to create a huge area of open space behind the front row of seats. This is ideal for toting things like band equipment, flowers and landscaping supplies, and so much more.

SUVs today provide you with the perfect blend of fuel efficiency, size and space, power and functionality that you need to get the most use out of your vehicle. There are many attractive styles to choose from that offer you these wonderful benefits.