An SUV, which stands for “sport utility vehicle,” is a versatile vehicle that’s popular among families and car enthusiasts alike. Use this guide to weigh the pros and cons of an SUV and see if it’s the right choice for your driving needs.
Key Takeaways
- An SUV, which means “sport utility vehicle,” is a versatile and popular option for both off-road adventures and city driving, making up nearly half of the global car market.
- SUVs offer safety, space, and off-road capabilities but can be more expensive, less fuel-efficient, and harder to maneuver than smaller cars.
- SUVs are built on a truck chassis for durability, while crossovers use a lighter car platform for better handling.
What Does “SUV” Mean?
The label “SUV” covers a wide range of vehicles with four-wheel drive and off-road capabilities. The term “sport utility” refers to the SUV’s ability to drive in a variety of conditions and outdoor terrains. However, despite their hardy design and durability, many owners primarily use them for daily commuting and city driving. They generally feature a sleek design and come in a compact, midsize, and full-size variants. In addition, some manufacturers offer hybrid and plug-in SUV options for environmentally conscious car owners.
The Popularity of SUVs
SUVs are extremely popular and top sellers for many car manufacturers. An estimated 48% of cars on the road globally are SUVs, taking up almost half of the car market and showing a growing preference for larger vehicles. Additionally, in 2025, the SUV’s estimated market revenue is projected to reach $337 billion. The popularity of SUVs has even caused some sports car manufacturers like Ferrari to invest in making SUVs for the first time.
The Benefits of SUVs
SUVs are popular for a variety of reasons, including:
- Safety: many SUVs score well during crash tests. Their size helps them absorb collision impact better than smaller vehicles, often making them a safer choice.
- Off-roading capabilities: SUVs and their 4×4 capabilities, which are optional on some models, are well suited to outdoor terrains and imperfect driving conditions.
- Hybrid options: While SUVs are usually less fuel-efficient than sedans and hatchbacks, there are more fuel-efficient SUV options, including hybrids and plug-ins.
- Roominess: Thanks to their larger design, SUVs offer plenty of space for storage and passengers. Their trunk space lets you transport luggage and other heavy items without needing to fold the back seats down, while their roomy cabins are ideal for large families and taller individuals.
The Cons of an SUV
Consider these downsides before purchasing an SUV of your own:
- Cost: SUVs are generally more expensive than sedans or compact cars, with the average SUV costing around $42,000. However, this number varies depending on size, luxury, and performance.
- Repairs: Annual car maintenance for SUVs can be pricier than smaller vehicles due to their complex systems andlarger components.
- Fuel efficiency: SUVs are generally less fuel-efficient than smaller vehicles because of their size and weight, leading to a higher environmental impact.
- Maneuvering: Their size can make them challenging to maneuver, especially in tight spaces like parking spots.
What’s the Difference Between an SUV and a Crossover?
Many people use “SUV” and “crossover”interchangeably, but there are some differences between the two vehicles. Namely, a crossover is lighter and built on a car platform, while a traditional SUV is heavier and uses a truck chassis. SUVs have a separate body and frame, while crossovers have a unibody design.
If you’re considering buying an SUV, think about which features matter most to you. In addition, check out more articles on The General’s insurance blog for extra car and insurance insights.
