They are often used as synonyms, to indicate the same type (or segment, to use a technical term) of car. but yet SUVs and crossovers are not the same. On the contrary: even if at first, inattentive, the differences may seem minimal, they are two extremely different types of vehicle.
The difference between SUV and crossover, as we will see later, lies in many details at a structural and mechanical level that make these two types of vehicles suitable for different needs and different categories of motorists. The SUV, for example, it is usually equipped with four-wheel drive, with a greater height from the ground and therefore able to pass even on the most rugged terrain. The crossover, strong and smaller in size, it is better suited to city and suburban routes.
SUV: definition and characteristics
Acronym for Sport Utility Vehicle (in Italian, sport utility vehicle), an SUV is a car with a raised trim and usually four-wheel drive. In some ways similar to off-road vehicles – especially in terms of size and exterior appearance – SUVs are distinguished from the latter above all by the interior spaces of the passenger compartment. Large and well-kept, they offer high levels of comfort during the journey: this makes them ideal for long journeys, both on roads in perfect condition and on rough surfaces (they do very well both on dirt and on wet or icy roads).
The SUVs are then characterized by high safety standards. As they prove the results of the latest NCAP texts, the large front section and the solid body make this type of car particularly safe in the event of a road accident. A flaw, however, is represented by the high center of gravity: if the distance from the ground helps to bypass even the most inaccessible obstacles, in the event of a collision it can lead the car to overturn too easily.
Crossover: definition and characteristics
As the name implies, crossovers are born from “Mix” of the bodies of a station wagon and a minivan. A sort of “mixture of races”, in short, which has determined its commercial success. Crossovers are there second best-selling car category in Italy for some time now and, month after month, they are gnawing market share from the compact cars, aiming to soon become the best-selling vehicle category in our country.
Crossovers are typically smaller than SUVs (it is no coincidence that they are also called compact SUVs) and do not have all-wheel drive: for this reason, despite the height from the roadway, they are not suitable for off-road or icy surfaces. These are cars designed for the city ecosystem, where they offer comfort, great driveability, safety and reduced consumption.
SUV vs crossover: the differences
As mentioned initially, the differences between SUVs and crossovers are many, especially on a structural and mechanical level.
- Body. Although both types of vehicles use the monocoque, that of SUVs is borrowed from off-road vehicles, while crossovers inherit it from sedans;
- Height. Since these are vehicles designed (also) for off-road use, SUVs have a decidedly higher height than crossovers;
- Weight. In terms of weight, the crossovers win. That is, they are lighter, thus ensuring lower consumption compared to the “counterpart”;
- Traction. SUVs usually also offer 4 × 4 all-wheel drive, while the drive wheels of a crossover are only two.
When to choose the SUV or the crossover
Now that we have seen what are the characteristics of an SUV and a crossover and analyzed the differences between these two types of cars, it is much easier to understand when to choose one over the other.
- When to choose the SUV. Safety, comfort and versatility are the key features of SUVs. Large, equipped with a resistant body and able to juggle any type of surface, the Sport Utility Vehicles are perfect for those looking for a comfortable and spacious car that is also able to go off road without the danger of getting stuck. Added to this is a great choice of equipment, thus making this vehicle category suitable even for those who do not want to give up luxury while behind the wheel;
- When to choose the crossover. Definitely smaller in size, weight and fuel consumption compared to SUVs, crossovers are considered by many to be the city car of the future. The lack of traction of the 4 × 4 all-wheel drive does not make them suitable for off road but, on the contrary, they are perfect for getting around town or for taking on long journeys in complete safety and comfort. In short, if your passion is long road trips, the crossover could be your ideal travel companion.
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