Do You Need a Crossover or SUV?

Do You Need a Crossover or SUV?

Posted on March 23, 2017

Crossover vehicles are becoming more and more popular, with auto
manufacturers coming out with new models each year. SUVs have been on the
market for years and for many are the best choice for hauling gear and going on
off-road adventures. While many crossover vehicles offer similar features as do
SUVs, there are some key differences. Here is some information about both types
of vehicles and what you need to know before choosing the one that's right for
you.

What is a
Crossover?

A crossover sits on a unibody frame. This means the body and the frame are
all one piece. The result is a vehicle that offers a smooth ride and drives
more like a sedan, just higher up on the road. A crossover offers a more agile
driving experience than an SUV and is often easier to maneuver in parking lots
and on narrow roads. The Dodge Journey is one of the larger Crossover vehicles
with plenty of room inside for the whole family and plenty of power beneath the
hood.

What is an SUV?

A true SUV or Sport Utility Vehicle has a truck chassis. This body on
frame architecture means the manufacturer builds the vehicle's body
separate from the frame and then puts them together. An SUV's frame houses the
drivetrain, which includes the drive shaft, the wheels, and the axles, and this
is separate from the body. The Jeep Cherokee is a popular SUV with the latest
technology, a high-quality interior, and the utility to get you up and over
rough terrain.

The Benefits of an
SUV

An SUV's construction tends to result in a more rugged vehicle than a
crossover. SUVs also resist rust better than vehicles that are all one piece.
An SUV is often cheaper to repair after an accident, depending on the type of
damage. In many cases, an SUV's weight and rugged construction mean it protects
its passengers better in the event of a crash. Do your research, though,
because some SUVs don't have a crumple zone in the front to help absorb the
energy if you are in a head-on collision.

The Benefits of a
Crossover

One of the biggest benefits to a crossover is the handling. Because it is
all one piece, it handles and rides more like a car for a smoother experience
on the road. These vehicles are also more fuel-efficient. SUVs are heavier than
most crossovers, so they need more power to move, and this means they burn more
gas. 

Which One is Right
For You?

Both SUVs and Crossovers come with plenty of room inside for hauling gear or
people. If you have a family and want a vehicle that is agile and comfortable
to ride in, then you might prefer a crossover. If you want a trucklike vehicle
that will get you over most road conditions and carry or tow more equipment,
then you should go with an SUV.