Which Vehicle Body Style Is Best For You?

At Empire Buick GMC of Long Island City, drivers throughout Woodside, Queens, and the greater NYC area often ask us whether a truck or an SUV is the better choice for their lifestyle. Both vehicle types offer tremendous value, performance, and versatility, but the best fit truly depends on your daily routine, driving environment, and long-term needs. As your trusted dealership in Long Island City, we’re here to help you understand the strengths of each so you can drive home in a vehicle that enhances every mile on the road.

Why Choose a Truck? Strength, Versatility & Capability

Drivers who live or work in Long Island City, Woodside, or anywhere across Queens choose a truck for its unmatched capability. Trucks like those in the GMC lineup deliver the power needed for towing boats to the marina, hauling work equipment across construction zones, or managing weekend DIY projects. The versatile bed gives you open-air cargo space that can’t be replicated in an SUV, especially when loading oversized items like lumber, appliances, bicycles, or landscaping materials.

Performance is another reason many Queens drivers lean toward a truck. Whether you’re tackling the changing seasons, navigating snowy streets, or venturing outside the city for camping trips, trucks offer powerful engines, advanced traction systems, and rugged durability. For those who prioritize maximum strength and utility, a truck is often the perfect long-term investment.

Available Trucks in Our Inventory:

• GMC Sierra 1500  – A powerful full-size truck offering strong towing capability, advanced trailering technology, and rugged durability for work or weekend use.
  
  

• GMC Sierra 2500 HD – A heavy-duty powerhouse built for demanding jobs, offering exceptional towing strength, a reinforced build, and advanced hauling features ideal for contractors and serious capability needs.
  
  

• GMC Canyon – A versatile midsize truck ideal for Queens drivers who want capability without the size of a full-size pickup, offering excellent maneuverability and performance.
  
  

• GMC Sierra EV – An all-electric truck delivering cutting-edge technology, instant torque, modern styling, and zero-emission capability for drivers looking to combine power with innovation.
  
  

• HUMMER EV Pickup – An all-electric supertruck offering extreme off-road capability, bold styling, advanced technology, and incredible performance unlike any other vehicle on the road.

Why Choose an SUV? Comfort, Space & Everyday Practicality

SUVs remain extremely popular among Queens and NYC families for good reason. Whether you’re commuting from Woodside to Manhattan, picking up kids from activities around Queens Boulevard, or making weekend trips to Long Island, SUVs provide the perfect blend of efficiency, comfort, and versatility. With multiple rows of seating, spacious interiors, and modern tech like driver-assistance safety systems, SUVs make everyday driving easier and more enjoyable.

Drivers also appreciate the refined ride quality SUVs provide. With smooth handling, elevated seating positions, and a more car-like feel, an SUV is ideal for navigating dense NYC traffic, tight LIC streets, and busy parking environments. And with models available in compact, midsize, and full-size configurations, there’s an SUV designed for commuters, families, adventurers, and everyone in between.

Available SUVs in Our Inventory:

• Buick Encore GX – A compact SUV perfect for navigating tight Long Island City streets with premium comfort and advanced safety features.
  
  

• Buick Envista – A sleek, modern crossover that blends stylish design, smart technology, and excellent efficiency, ideal for Queens commuters looking for value and versatility.
  
  

• Buick Enclave – A three-row premium SUV offering generous space, upscale materials, and family-friendly comfort for daily driving around Woodside and beyond.
  
  

• GMC Terrain – A compact SUV featuring confident performance, intuitive technology, and versatile cargo options suited for busy Queens lifestyles.
  
  

• GMC Acadia – A midsize SUV designed to handle both family travel and everyday commuting with flexibility, capability, and modern comfort.
  
  

• GMC Yukon – A full-size SUV delivering powerful performance, three-row capability, and refined comfort for larger families and long-distance drives.
  
  

• GMC Yukon XL – An extended-length version of the Yukon offering even more cargo room and spacious third-row comfort, perfect for big families or drivers who need maximum versatility.
  
  

• HUMMER EV SUV – A bold, all-electric SUV that combines incredible off-road capability with cutting-edge technology and unmistakable styling.

Trucks vs. SUVs in Long Island City: What Local Drivers Prefer

Living and driving in Long Island City and Woodside presents unique daily challenges. Tight urban streets, heavy traffic, and dense neighborhoods require a vehicle that adapts to your lifestyle. Many LIC drivers choose SUVs for their maneuverability, comfort, and family-friendly features, perfect for navigating Queens Boulevard, the BQE, or trips to Gantry Plaza State Park.

At the same time, Queens has a thriving community of contractors, landscapers, and outdoor enthusiasts who rely on the strength and utility of a truck. For those who frequently carry equipment, tow trailers, or head out of town for weekend adventures, a truck offers the capability and durability they need.

Both options bring tremendous value to life in Queens. The decision simply depends on what you prioritize most: power and utility, or comfort and everyday convenience.

Which Vehicle Fits Your Lifestyle?

A Truck May Be Best For You If You Are a Driver Who:

• Frequently tows equipment, trailers, boats, or recreational gear.
  
  

• Needs open-bed cargo space for hauling large or oversized items.
  
  

• Works in construction, contracting, landscaping, or similar trades.
  
  

• Enjoys outdoor activities that require off-road or rugged capability.
  
  

• Prefers high torque, powerful engines, and maximum durability.
  
  

• Regularly travels outside of Queens for work or weekend adventures.
  
  

An SUV May Be Best For You If You Are a Driver Who:

• Needs comfortable seating for families, carpools, or daily commuting.
  
  

• Navigates tight city streets and prefers easier maneuverability.
  
  

• Prioritizes interior cargo space that is enclosed and secure.
  
  

• Values advanced safety features and smooth ride quality.
  
  

• Wants versatility for school drop-offs, weekend errands, and city driving.
  
  

• Lives or works in areas like Long Island City, Woodside, or Astoria where compact or midsize options are ideal.

Visit Empire Buick GMC of Long Island City

Whether you’re comparing trucks and SUVs or already know what you want, our team at Empire Buick GMC of Long Island City is here to guide you through every step. We proudly serve drivers from LIC, Woodside, Astoria, and all across Queens, offering a premium selection of new and pre-owned Buick and GMC models. Visit us today to explore both truck and SUV options in person and take a test drive to see which one truly fits your lifestyle.

FAQ: Trucks vs. SUVs