When you're in the market for a utility vehicle chances are you have a specific purpose in mind. On one hand you've got a long list of things to do and are looking for a machine to help you tackle the big jobs. Or maybe you're a hunter who needs to go one step beyond an ATV. In either case, you're looking for a dependable machine that can get you and your supplies from point A to point B.

Here are some points to consider:

Two-Wheel Drive or Four?
The main purpose of a four-wheel drive vehicle is to give you traction. The key here is that all four wheels need to stay on the ground in order to provide the benefit. If you're deciding between a two-wheel or four-wheel drive model, take a look at the utility vehicle's suspension. If you're headed out in rough terrain with a fixed or rigid suspension chances are all four wheels won't be in constant contact with the ground. Many manufacturers are fine tuning their suspensions to help the wheels maintain their contact with the ground - blurring the line between four- and two-wheel drive. Look for independent A-arm suspensions that absorb the shocks from rough terrain. And, active in-frame suspensions that allow the front of the vehicle to adjust independently of the rear. These types of suspensions allow the wheels to stay on the ground, while providing a smoother ride.

Performance
If you're moving rock to a landscaping project or a bringing back a trophy buck after a successful hunt, hauling and towing capacities will be important. With utility vehicles there are a few key points to review:

• Towing Capacity refers to the weight you can hitch and tow. Models can range from 500-pounds up to 1600-pounds towing capacity.
  
• Payload Capacity is the amount of weight you can put on the machine. This number includes the weight of the rider, passenger and load. Popular consumer models range from nearly 900-pounds up to 1600-pounds payload capacity.
  
• Bed or Box Capacity is the amount of weight you can haul in the back bed of your utility vehicle. The range here on consumer machines is larger - from 350-pounds up to 1200-pounds.
  
• Bed or Box Volume is the amount of the load, measured in cubic feet, you can put in the back. This number can be tougher to find, but if you're hauling dirt or fertilizer it can mean more or less trips back and forth. Ask the sales person for bed volume information.
  
• Turning Radius if you're going to be using your utility vehicle in tight spaces, such as at the end of planting rows or in areas with lots of trees a smaller turning radius is essential. The range for vehicles varies from 9-feet up to 12-feet.

Features & Accessories
The number of features and accessories you can use to customize your utility vehicle can be virtually endless. Once you decide what your needs are, check out what is standard and what is an add-on for different manufacturers. Consider adding an electric bed lift to make dumping heavy loads a simple task. Brush guards add extra protection to the grill area. From an electric winch to a rear receiver hitch, there are plenty of options to help increase productivity while reducing effort and stress. Adding a snow plow to your list of accessories can make your utility vehicle a four-season machine.

Tires are an area where matching your needs to the style is essential. If you're working on a paved road as opposed to an open field, a change of tire can make a world of difference. Manufacturers have different names for different tire types such as all-terrain, heavy-duty, turf, and trail. Ask the dealer to help you choose.

Comfort features can go beyond the usual cup holder and storage space. Look for models that include important "extras" such as lots of legroom, comfortable seats and an accessory power plugs for your "in the field" electrical needs.

Price
Once your decision is made you can expect to pay anywhere from $5,700 to $8,300 base price for these machines.

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