What Are SUVs?

This article answers all the commonly asked questions about SUVs, from what an SUV actually is to the safety of the increasingly popular vehicle. SUVs are one of the most popular cars to have today, as you can see when walking down any car park. A vehicle that used to be only for the emergency services, the military or farmers has now become the UKs go-to option when looking for a new car. These days, however, SUVs seem to have very little in common with the basic, utilitarian models. SUVs are now more comfortable as most have sacrificed some all-terrain ability, they have better fuel economy and are in general more pleasant to drive, but they do have the same mechanical underpinnings as a regular car. With the increased demand, car brands have developed numerous models in different styles and sizes, to suit almost any budget.

This article answers all the commonly asked questions about SUVs, from what an SUV actually is to the safety of the increasingly popular vehicle.

SUVs are one of the most popular cars to have today, as you can see when walking down any car park. A vehicle that used to be only for the emergency services, the military or farmers has now become the UKs go-to option when looking for a new car. These days, however, SUVs seem to have very little in common with the basic, utilitarian models. SUVs are now more comfortable as most have sacrificed some all-terrain ability, they have better fuel economy and are in general more pleasant to drive, but they do have the same mechanical underpinnings as a regular car. With the increased demand, car brands have developed numerous models in different styles and sizes, to suit almost any budget.

What is an SUV?

‘Sport Utility Vehicle’, that’s what makes the acronym ‘SUV’. Simply because SUVs were primarily used as a utility vehicle, and weren’t so popular amongst the general public. The term was used first in the 80’s and 90’s in the USA, but since the demand for SUVs has gone up incredibly since this century, the term has been used more in Europe and elsewhere in the world now too. The term describes a car that looks and feels like an off-roader but is intended mainly for everyday driving on regular tarmac roads.

SUVs, 4x4s and crossovers: what’s the difference?

The term ‘SUV’ seems to be interchangeably used with ‘4x4’, so what is the difference? As explained before, the term SUV applies to any car with off-roader styling/features. A 4x4 describes a different type of car, as it sends power to all four wheels for optimised traction on slippery or uneven surfaces. SUVs do often have the option to upgrade to a four-wheel drive, and some even come with it as standard. A ‘crossover’ is a car that has the sporty, rugged look and raised height of an off-roader combined with the low running costs, spacious interior and comfortable driving experience of a typical family car.

Are all SUVs off-roaders?

Though SUVs sit higher off the ground, that doesn’t necessarily mean that they are capable of handling muddy or steep roads, or rivers. It seems SUV buyers are often looking for an off-roader in a more usable package. Whether you are prioritising the style, the power or the family-friendliness of an SUV, there are so many options on the market these days that picking just one would be a fun challenge, and at the end of the day comes down to personal preference.

Are there hybrid and electric SUVs?

Yes, plenty! There is a fair amount of hybrid/electric SUVs on the market right now, and it seems the trend carries on strongly, with numerous new models to be launched in the next months and years. The vehicles are usually not very different from their petrol or diesel-powered siblings but seem to add a smoother and overall more comfortable driving experience.

Are SUVs safer than normal cars?

Technically speaking, SUVs are not more or less safe than a regular car. Some people, however, like that you usually have a better view of traffic from a raised driving position, which makes them feel safer and more confident behind the wheel. Today's advanced safety technology allows SUVs to provide optimal safety too, as this includes crash-avoidance and driver-assistance technology besides the familiar safety equipment like electronic stability control and airbags.

Looking for your next SUV? Check out our stock of large, medium or small 4x4s, we're sure we'll have something for you!

Header image credit: https://unsplash.com/photos/white-honda-suv-on-gray-floor-O7WzqmeYoqc