Car Research Advice

SUV

Whether you’re looking to tow, transport your family, or deal with inclement weather, SUV and crossover options span nearly every size and budget.

Versatility is a key strength of an SUV, be it a full-size model like the Chevrolet Suburban or a midsize crossover like the Kia Sorento.

FAQs about SUVs and crossovers

What does SUV stand for?

SUV stands for Sport Utility Vehicle and the category covers a wide range of vehicles. Truck-based SUVs with four-wheel drive, like the Toyota 4Runner, have traditionally been what springs to mind when you think of an SUV. That's increasingly not the case, as crossover SUVs have become some of the most popular vehicles around. Those include the Kia Telluride, Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4.

What kind of SUVs and crossovers are there?

There are many different types of SUVs and they primarily are categorized by size and focus. Seating varies, from five in smaller SUVs, ranging all the way up to eight in some larger mid-size and full-size models.

Of the different sizes, there are:

• Subcompact SUVs, like the Volkswagen Taos
• Compact SUVs, like the Honda CR-V
• 5-passenger mid-size SUVs, like the Nissan Murano
• 7-passenger mid-size SUVs, like the Toyota Highlander
• Full-size SUVs, like the Chevrolet Suburban

Of the different focus areas, there are:

• Off-road SUVs, like the Jeep Wrangler
• Performance SUVs, like the Porsche Cayenne
• Hybrid SUVs, like the Volvo XC90 Recharge

What's the difference between an SUV and crossover?

The difference between an SUV and crossover boils down to how they’re built. An SUV resembles a truck but with more seating and enclosed storage space instead of a bed. For example, the Lincoln Navigator is built on the same platform, or chassis, as the Ford F-150. These vehicles tend to focus on off-road ability and towing more than comfort and fuel efficiency.

Crossovers are more similar to cars similar to passenger cars like the Honda Accord. Crossovers are commonly higher off the ground than sedans or coupes but share some characteristics, like a smooth ride and improved fuel economy compared to trucks and traditional SUVs. Examples include the Hyundai Santa Fe, Toyota Highlander and Mazda CX-50.

What is the top selling SUV?

The Toyota RAV4 was far and away the top selling SUV in 2022. It was followed by the Honda CR-V and Tesla Model Y.

What's the most reliable SUV to buy?

The Honda HR-V, Mazda CX-3 and Lexus NX 200t are among the most reliable and dependable SUVs available.

What is the best SUV to buy?

This will depend on what you need your SUV to do. If you're looking for off-roading, you can't do much better than the Jeep Wrangler or Ford Bronco. If towing and space is important, the Ford Explorer is a good option. But a few great, all-around choices include the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4 and Jeep Grand Cherokee