What is an SUV? The Ultimate Guide to SUVs

SUVs are the ultimate off road all-terrain vehicles

image Lee Chinyama

In the past few years, SUVs have become even more popular than cars. In fact, SUV sales have been skyrocketing and are continuing to do so as new models are introduced and old ones see revamps. This is because SUVs provide a lot of benefits for drivers.

They’re a great option for people who frequently go on outdoor road trips, or simply live in an area where there are lots of hills or rough terrain that makes it dangerous to drive on in smaller cars.

If you’re interested in buying an SUV, you probably have some questions about them first. What exactly is an SUV? Are they safe? What type of SUV is right for me? Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about these amazing vehicles!

What is an SUV?

An SUV is a type of car with four wheels and a higher ride height than a sedan or coupe. SUVs also tend to have a high ground clearance which helps them navigate rough terrain. SUVs are also larger than cars, which means you can often fit more passengers or cargo in them.

suv off road camping 2
The SUV has over taken the RV camper as the top mode of escaping the modern rat race, even if it’s just for a weekend. Image source – Unsplash

SUVs are also usually more powerful than cars, so they usually have better towing and hauling capability. Generally, SUVs are a combination of an off-road car and a truck. SUVs started becoming popular in the 1990s when manufacturers started making them bigger and heavier than regular cars, thanks to new materials like steel.

SUVs are also referred to as “crossovers,” “soft-roaders,” or “wannabe trucks.” They’re often also called “crossovers” because they have the ability to go off-road like a truck.

Why are SUVs so popular?

SUVs are very popular among car buyers, especially in North America. They come in all shapes and sizes, from compact to full-size. They are larger than most cars, offering more room for passengers and cargo.

A couple enjoys the scenery with their SUV
SUVs offers the ultimate access to the outdoors. Image source: Alex-Meier -unsplash

Generally, SUV models are designed for people who want both the functionality of a car and the higher ride height of a truck. There are different classes of SUVs, ranging from compact to full-size.

The most popular SUVs include the Toyota Highlander, Ford Explorer, Chevy Tahoe, Honda Pilot, Dodge Durango, Jeep Cherokee, Kia Sorento, Nissan Pathfinder, and Subaru Outback.

Is an SUV the Right Type of Vehicle for You?

There are many types of SUVs, so it’s important to understand the different types before you go shopping for one. Compact SUVs are the smallest type of SUV, and are best for people who don’t regularly tow or haul a lot of cargo, or who don’t drive in snowy or muddy conditions.

Mid-size SUVs are best for people who regularly tow or haul cargo, or who drive in an area that gets a lot of snow. Full-size SUVs are best for people who regularly tow or haul a lot of cargo, or who need the extra ground clearance for driving on rough terrain.

It’s also important to think about where you’ll be driving most often. If you drive mostly on paved, flat surfaces, you might want to look into a crossover or SUV with a lower ride height. However, if you drive in hilly or mountainous areas, a high ride height SUV or crossover with all-wheel drive is your best option.

Things to consider before buying an SUV

There are a few things to consider before buying an SUV. First, find out if you’re allowed to drive one at work. Some employers have policies against driving SUVs. Next, consider what type of SUV is best for you and your lifestyle.

You may want to consider the amount of money you have to spend on a vehicle, and what your financing options are. You may also want to think about how frequently you’ll be driving, and how often you’ll need to park your vehicle. If you park on a busy street, you may want to consider a smaller SUV so it’s easier for other drivers to see you.

Final Words

SUVs are a great option for drivers who need a vehicle that can handle rough terrain, or who frequently tow or haul cargo. They’re larger than cars, so they offer more room for passengers and cargo.

They also often have a higher ride height than a car, which makes them great for people who drive in hilly or mountainous areas. There are different classifications of SUVs, including compact, mid-size, and full-size.

Compact SUVs are best for drivers who don’t tow a lot or need the extra ground clearance. Mid-size SUVs are best for drivers who regularly tow or haul cargo, or who drive in an area that gets a lot of snow. Full-size SUVs are best for drivers who regularly tow or haul a lot of cargo, or who drive in hilly or mountainous areas.