What is the Difference Between a Crossover and a SUV? The Definitive Guide

There are people around the world who are passionate about both crossovers and SUVs. It is also easy to see why, as they are:

Strong.
Versatile.
Luxurious.
Handsome

However, many people have not only used these two terms interchangeably but also confused themselves and others in Understanding the Difference Between Crossover and SUV. Both types of cars are fundamentally different.

The former are becoming popular due to their versatility and fuel efficiency. The latter are still popular, especially among hardcore enthusiasts of four-wheel drive cars.

How did crossovers become popular?

Crossovers gained popularity due to increased awareness of global warming and rising demand for fuel economy in many markets. SUVs are gigantic and do pack a lot of horsepower, but for many (even in developed countries), they proved to be heavy on the pocket.

Crossovers emerged as fuel-efficient options that offered features comparable to those of SUVs in terms of luxury and aesthetics. However, people often confuse both kinds of cars. Both have similarities but also have differences.

Both these vehicles represent growth in both the local and global automotive industry. Let us now examine the differences between these two vehicles. This post will serve as a brief yet definitive guide in this regard.

The difference between Crossovers and SUVs

What is the difference between a crossover and a typical SUV? It boils down to how both are built. Similarly to the foundation of buildings, the differences will determine the structure and capabilities of both of these vehicles.

Crossovers (also known as car-like SUVs)

Imagine driving a car that is luxurious, fuel-efficient, and easy to control, with the added space and versatility of an SUV; that is what is known as a Crossover. The key is its unibody assembly, i.e., the vehicle’s body and frame are integrated as a unified unit. It helps trim body weight, leading to improved fuel mileage. Engineers can also add critical safety features.

A majority of crossovers have crumple zones engineered with precision. They absorb impact and protect a vehicle’s passengers (utilizing a safety rolling cage). They are reinforced with high-strength steel (HSS) and advanced high-strength steel (AHSS). Meaning owners get protection minus the bulk of old designs.

What is a crossover car? The answer can be verified with examples of Crossovers, such as the Toyota RAV4, Kia Sportage, Honda CR-V, Hyundai Tucson, Ford Escape, and Mazda CX-5.

SUVs – Workhorses based on Pickup Trucks

Let’s define a SUV using a traditional approach: Body-on-frame construction. They are built the same way pickup trucks are built, i.e., a separate body mounted on a robust ladder frame. The result is a durable and firm foundation.

This makes SUVs worthwhile for towing heavy loads (such as boats and wagons), as well as for navigating tricky off-road tracks and terrain. The separate frame provides stronger wheel movement and increased ground clearance. When it comes to questioning SUV vs Crossover for off-road, the SUV wins because it can navigate rocks, potholes, and all sorts of uneven terrain (even crossing shallow streams).

Examples of SUVs are the Toyota Land Cruiser, Jeep Wrangler, Honda Passport, Ford Bronco & Bronco Sport, and GMC Yukon

Difference between 4WD and AWD

When Understanding the difference between a Compact SUV vs a crossover, two terms come to mind: 4WD and AWD. The former means Four-Wheel Drive, while the latter implies All Wheel Drive. Part-time 4WD is suitable for off-road driving, but not for driving on paved roads. The drivetrain can get damaged. Full-time 4WD is ideal for all types of roads.

Compiling the differences between both Crossovers and SUVs

Factors	Crossovers	SUVs
Foundation	Crossovers are made using a unibody design.	SUVs are built using a Body-on-Frame approach.
The Drive	Crossovers use an independent suspension. The ride is smooth like a typical car.	SUVs have a firmer and truck-like feel thanks to their live and solid axle rear suspension.
Wheelbase	Crossovers have shorter wheelbases. They are easier to park and navigate tight city streets nicely.	SUVs have a long wheelbase that provides a smooth ride, are durable for off-roading, and can manage heavy loads. Compact SUV ground clearance is more than that of a crossover.
Fuel Economy	Crossovers consume less fuel than SUVs (7.9 Ltrs per 100 KM). They are also available in Hybrid (HEVs), plug-in hybrid (PHEVs), and fully electric versions.	SUVs are heavy vehicles. They consume more fuel compared to a crossover (1.5 Ltrs per 100 KM).
Off-road Capability	Some AWD crossovers are well-suited for driving on gravel roads and in icy conditions.	SUVs often feature 4WD systems and can easily be driven on off-road terrain, such as mud, rocks, and steep inclines.
Interior Space	Mid and full-size crossovers have ample room for passengers and cargo.	SUVs typically offer more cargo space thanks to their three-row configurations.

Advantages and Disadvantages of both Crossovers and SUVs

Let us now have a good look at the pros and cons of both vehicles:

Crossovers

Pros	Cons
They provide good fuel economy.	They have lower towing capacity.
Offer a comfortable and smooth ride.	Limited off-road features.
They are suitable for driving in cities.	Cannot carry heavy loads.
They are affordable compared to SUVs.

SUVs

Pros	Cons
They have more capacity to tow heavy loads.	They have a high fuel consumption compared to crossovers.
Greater off-road capability and can be driven on rough terrain.	They cannot be driven on narrow roads.
More durable than crossovers.	They are more expensive than typical crossovers.
More cargo space thanks to three-row configurations.
They are typically equipped with a Four-Wheel Drive (4WD) configuration. Even the best SUV in Pakistan has that.

Conclusion

Though various types of SUV and Crossover do exist, the choice between these two comes down to what people need. Some prefer the latter due to its fuel efficiency and smoother ride on city roads. Some prefer the latter due to their robust build and powerful capabilities. Both have their advantages and disadvantages, and both can provide passengers with an excellent ride.