Must-Know Car Specs Explained

If you’re entering the market for your next vehicle, it pays to do your research. The more you know about each model, the easier it will be to make the right decision. However, you might see some terms that need clarification before you can see how they apply to your needs, so let’s define those vehicle specs to set you up to succeed.

• Horsepower (HP) : The measure of a vehicle’s engine power. This can shed some light on how quick a model could be and how briskly it can accelerate to its maximum speed. If horsepower is an important factor for you, check out the high numbers on the Dodge Challenger sports car and RAM 1500 truck.
• Torque : Rotational force that helps the vehicle climb inclines and tow trailers. Higher torque lets a vehicle accelerate faster from a complete stop.
• Miles per Gallon (MPG) : Fuel efficiency is gauged by how many miles a model can travel per gallon of gas.
• Cylinders : As the cylinders of an engine move up and down in the combustion process, they generate the power that moves the vehicle. Larger engines with more cylinders and higher engine displacement (the volume of all cylinders) usually create more power and also consume more fuel.
• Transmission : A vehicle can pair its engine with either an automatic transmission, which takes care of gear shifting for you; manual transmission, which tasks you to shift gears; or a continuously variable automatic transmission, which doesn’t have fixed gears but pulleys and belts instead.
• Drivetrain : Vehicles ride on either Front-Wheel Drive (FWD), Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD), Four-Wheel Drive (4WD), or All-Wheel Drive (AWD). This drivetrain can impact handling, grip, and even fuel efficiency. If you go off-road, AWD or 4WD are great for maintaining traction.
• Towing Capacity : This is the highest weight that the vehicle can tow.
• Dimensions (Length x Width x Height) : These numbers show you the model’s size, letting you measure how well it could fit in your garage or imagine how easy it is to park.
• Wheelbase : This quantifies the distance from the front axle to the rear axle. Vehicles with a longer wheelbase often feature abundant interior space and a tranquil ride quality.
• Ground Clearance : The space between the bottommost part of the vehicle and the ground. Off-road vehicles require a higher ground clearance for clearing uneven terrain.
• Tire Size : The size and type of tires that your vehicle is best suited for. It can affect traction and performance.
• Curb Weight : The weight of the vehicle itself, not counting any riders or cargo.
• Infotainment System : This is the technology and tech interface onboard your model. It can include a touchscreen, voice controls, display screens, sound controls, navigation, head-up displays, and other entertainment options.
• Connectivity : Tech options such as integration with your smartphone, Wi-Fi hotspot capability, and Bluetooth®*.
• Safety Features : These options can include essential tools like airbags and antilock brakes as well as cutting-edge safety technology like automatic emergency braking.
• Warranty : Manufacturers cover their vehicles’ replacement service and repairs with warranties for a certain stretch of time. If a vehicle features a long warranty period, then that could be an indicator that the manufacturer is confident in its reliability.
• Resale Value : This is an estimated amount of money that a model could go for if sold in the future. A high resale value is a good sign that the vehicle is reliable.

Visit Our Dealership in Hugo, OK

Whenever you’re ready to find the vehicle that’s right for you, we’ll be here to help at Jay Hodge Dodge Chrysler Jeep RAM. From comfortable vehicles fit for the whole family to adventurous models with rugged off-roading specs, the vehicle of your dreams is waiting here at our Hugo dealership, and we can’t wait to hand you the keys. Come see us to explore all your options at 2505 E Jackson Street, Hugo, Oklahoma, 74743.

*Bluetooth® word mark and logos are registered trademarks owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of such marks by Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep, or RAM is under license. A compatible Bluetooth®-enabled phone must first be paired. Phone performance depends on software, coverage and carrier.