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What are the Differences Between Crossovers and SUVs?

Front driver angle of a white 2020 Ford Explorer parked on a pier with a carnival in the background

What are the Differences Between Crossovers and SUVs?

By Product Expert | Posted in Comparisons, FAQs on Monday, May 11th, 2020 at 2:35 pmrn

Crossover vs SUV Comparison

  If you have been shopping for a family vehicle lately, yournlikely have heard of crossovers and SUVs. Generally, dealerships group theserntwo types of vehicles together. That raises a certain question for buyers –rnwhat are the differences between crossovers and SUVs? With our crossover vs SUVrncomparison, we will explore some similarities as well as notable differences tornhelp you understand which body type will better suit your driving needs.  

 

Crossover and SUV Platforms

  Many car experts will argue that the main difference between crossovers and SUVs is the platform. The platform that crossovers are built from is based on sedans. This is due to the unibody construction that crossovers are given while in production. Meanwhile, SUVs are built off the truck platform, meaning that SUVs are constructed with a body-on-frame design.  
Front driver angle of an orange 2020 Nissan Rogue Sport

Design and Size

  Regarding the design, crossovers tend to appear sportier asrnthey resemble sedans more closely. Due to the lighter weight of the crossover,rnthese vehicles also excel with providing better fuel economy and, at times, arnmore affordable price.   On the other hand, SUVs are built to be more durable. Withrnthe help of the truck platform, SUVs are typically designed to withstand heavyrntowing and hauling weight while also offering more off-road options. Also, SUVsrnhave a tendency to be more spacious than crossovers. Its large size makes itrneasier for big families to travel together and for large items to berntransported. Finally, SUVs also tend to come equipped with stronger engines.
 

Similarities Between the Crossover and the SUV

  Despite the differences, crossovers and SUVs are veryrnsimilar. Both types typically seat at least 5 people, have the cargo arearndirectly behind the rear seats rather than offering a separated trunk, isrnhigher off the ground, and give more space. Due to so many similarities,rncrossovers are sometimes referred to as “compact SUVs” or “subcompact SUVs”. Yournmay even see some models referred to as “crossover SUVs”, combining both names.  
Driver angle of a grey 2020 Hyundai Palisade parked in front of a bakery

Should I Buy a Crossover or an SUV?

  You should set your own requirements when deciding whetherrnto buy an SUV or a crossover. If you want to save some money and don’t need arnvery large vehicle, a crossover may be the way to go. If you need more space,rnpower, and off-road capabilities, consider shopping for an SUV.  

  Need more help finding the right vehicle for you? Contact us at OkCarz and we will bernhappy to offer some recommendations.  
 

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