SUV vs. Crossover: Understanding the Key Differences

To the uninitiated, the differences between an SUV and a crossover can be hard to discern beyond one being smaller than the other. What is important to know, is that both vehicles serve specific functions and are designed to perform them well. Let’s dive into what separates an SUV from a crossover, and what those differences mean when it comes to one’s overall experience of the vehicle.

Know your vehicle

Today’s SUVs and crossovers come with a host of features that promise better performance and an elevated driving experience - threatening to blur the line between an SUV and a crossover. However, there is one key structural difference between an SUV and a crossover that gives them their distinct identities.

What is an SUV

An SUV or Sports Utility Vehicle is designed to conquer rugged terrain. They are larger and more spacious than your average car, and can typically seat up to 8 people. SUVs are built on truck frames for more durability, increased load capacity and better off-road handling. They have a body-on-frame design, which simply means the body and frame are made separately and unified during manufacturing.

What is a crossover

A crossover goes by many names including - compact SUV, SAV (Sports Activity Vehicle), CUV (Crossover Utility Vehicle) and crossover SUV. This is probably why it often gets confused with an SUV. Crossovers are a great middle-ground for those who need a car that’s easy to maneuver for city driving, but still offers some of the stature of an SUV. Crossovers have a unibody design - where the body and frame (or chassis) are one. This keeps them light and easy to handle - especially while turning corners.


SUV vs. crossover: The ultimate guide

To truly examine which vehicle is better suited for your personal use, it is best to take a closer look at the key aspects that will impact your everyday experience. Here’s a comprehensive guide to everything you need to know about SUVs vs. crossovers:


Build

SUV:

  • Body and frame are separate - built on truck chassis
  • Passenger, plus off-road features
  • Good ground clearance
  • Heavy

Crossover:

  • Unibody design - body and frame are one single piece
  • Passenger, plus partial SUV features
  • Better ground clearance than smaller cars, but less than an SUV
  • Light


Function

SUV:

  • Equipped to handle challenging terrain and bad weather
  • Suitable for adventurous drives and off-roading
  • Ideal for thrill seekers

Crossover:

  • Equipped to handle light off-roading and trailing
  • Suitable for city driving and weekend drives
  • Ideal for a family of 4, living in the city


Space and seating capacity

SUV:

  • Spacious cabin that can comfortably seat 8
  • Ample boot space that can be extended into the cabin and handle heavy loads

Crossover:

  • Less spacious than an SUV - most models can only seat 5 comfortably, a few larger ones can snugly fit 7
  • Generally good boot space to match its size and function, with a few models having slightly smaller cargo capacity


Fuel efficiency

SUV:

  • Larger engine and size decreases aerodynamics and results in reduced fuel efficiency

Crossover:

  • Unibody design results in a lighter vehicle and better ride quality, enabling better fuel efficiency than SUVs


Towing capacity and power

SUV:

  • Impressive towing capacity - similar to pickup trucks, thanks to heavy build and powerful engine

Crossover:

  • Not built to tow heavy loads - however, some newer models have improved towing capacity compared to their counterparts


Handling

SUV:

  • Most are built to handle challenging terrain
  • Difficult to maneuver on congested city roads

Crossover:

  • Built to offer better ride quality on city roads
  • Easy handling and maneuverability for city driving - especially when rounding corners


Drivetrain system

SUV:

  • Typically rear wheel drive with 4WD systems

Crossover:

  • Typically front wheel drive, with some models offering AWD


In a nutshell, a crossover is essentially a smaller, less powerful version of an SUV, while being lighter, quicker and more fuel-efficient. The best way to decide what to go with when it comes to a crossover vs an SUV, is to be honest about how you plan to use it.

If you spend most of your time driving in the city, it is probably best to consider a crossover that is easier to park and maneuver like the Jetour Dashing. Crossovers also won’t guzzle as much fuel as an SUV while you’re stuck in traffic. If you live on the road, do a lot of long-distance driving through various terrains or simply love to go dune-bashing on the weekend, then an SUV like the Jetour T2 is the way to go. Its durable, hefty build and 4-wheel drive system will serve you well.

SUVs and crossovers in the UAE

SUVs and crossovers are a popular choice in the UAE, among commuters and thrill-seekers alike. With the onset of winter, camping in the desert and exploring off-road spots frequently feature in weekend plans. Having a car that is reliable, hefty and spacious is a must if you are among those who enjoy getaways like this that require a boot-full of picnic supplies. Depending on how adventurous you are, Jetour’s range of luxury SUVs and crossovers have you covered. Boasting hi-tech interiors, striking design features and seamless adaptability from work to play, Jetour is something you won’t want to miss. Visit the Jetour showroom and experience it for yourself.