So many new cars sold in the SUV segment boast a similar body shape and style. Some are listed as crossovers, while others are solely advertised as SUVs. Is there a difference?Generally, the sales brochures use the names interchangeably, but technically there is a structural difference that matters when you want to push your machine to its limits.
The SUV and Crossover body types look and function much the same in today’s car market. The real difference shows up when you look at its frame.
The first sport utility vehicle to hit the road was the Jeep Willys-Overland in 1940. Built as a general-purpose vehicle for the military, it used a truck frame, off-road suspension, flexible seating, and ample cargo room to tackle smaller jobs around the battlefield. The design morphed and stuck around through the next 80 years as the Ford Bronco, Jeep Wrangler, Chevrolet Suburban, and Toyota Highlander.
Today’s crossovers first appeared in 1995. The unibody construction, used previously for sedans and coupes, allowed for significant improvements in safety standards for the SUV segment. This fueled a major shift toward the crossover design for auto manufacturers.
The raised seating and spacious cabin were crafted around a unibody frame to create a ride better suited for the modern family. Available with front or all-wheel drive, mom and dad found it easier to pilot through suburban streets while leaving plenty of room for all the family and their soccer gear.
While scrolling through new car websites, most rides will be listed as an SUV even if it is built on the unibody crossover frame. If you see a vehicle listed specifically as a crossover, it will likely have a sportier appearance with a lower roofline and slightly less cargo capacity. The name has turned into more of a visual description than one that talks about its ability.
SUVs that advertise off-road ability are more likely to have that classic truck-frame construction. But it’s not a hard and fast rule. Also, today’s all-wheel drive capability found on crossovers will easily handle gravel roads and the occasional visit to a muddy track.
If you are searching for a ride ready to serve as the family grocery-getter with an occasional visit to a state park for some weekend fun, the crossover will readily meet or exceed all your needs. The flexible seating lets you fold down one, two, or up to five seats to leave enough cargo room to stock up on DIY supplies at the big box store. Its independent suspension produces a smooth ride, while the front or all-wheel drive gives you plenty of control on paved roads in most driving conditions.
For the driver who plans on spending lots of time off the paved road, an SUV might be a better choice. Your ride can be equipped with skid plates, crawl modes, sway bars that can be disconnected, and four-wheel drive ready to clamber over sand dunes. The truck-type frame also means it will support heavier payloads and generally has a higher tow rating.
There are still a few SUVs being produced on the original truck-frame concept. You can find several examples on our lots.
According to Kelly Blue Book, the list of best-selling SUVs in America for 2022 is full of crossovers. Your top five include:
Our collection of dealerships located on Beach Boulevard in Huntington Beach gives you the widest selection of new and pre-owned rides waiting to become part of your family. Come visit us when you need to decide if a crossover or SUV is right for you.
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