SUVs a hit in PH

SUV stands for Sports Utility Vehicle. Commonly dubbed as a Pajero (due to its popularity in the 90’s), Jeep or four-by-four for the less familiar people, the SUVs are characterized by their large body size, raised ride height and rugged looks.

Conceived from the need to transport a family through roads less traveled, the original SUVs were popular amongst farmers in the US, adventurers and off-road enthusiasts due to its luxury features coupled with their four-wheel or all-wheel drive capability. A good example is the Jeep Cherokee.

 SUVs are also much better to navigate inharsh weather conditions compared to a sedan and have proven to be safer during collisions due to its size and rigidity.

Nowadays, majority of SUVs are oriented to on-road use, as car manufacturers realized SUV owners would spend only a small fraction of their time actually using their SUV’s off-road capability. The manufacturers are now starting to combine the most popular elements of an SUV with that of a luxury sedan, giving way to the introduction of the “crossover” like the Subaru Forester.

Due to how practical SUVs are, they are also very popular among those who have small businessesas there is plenty of room in the rear. Lots of SUVs have optional foldable or retractable 3rd row sets.

Is an AUV an SUV?

Traditionally speaking - No. However, it would be reasonable to consider Asian Utility Vehicles as similar to the SUV, but with smaller dimensions and a more practical exterior and interior design.

Birthed in the early 70s, the AUVs were designed to be sold in developing countries like the Philippines. These models, like the Toyota Tamaraw, are marketed as affordable utility transporters, but not as rigid as the early SUVs. Although I would attest to the durability of these cars.

Among the popular AUVs, the Mitsubishi Adventure and the Isuzu Crosswinds are currently the longest running models while the Toyota Revo was replaced with the top selling Innova.

Are SUVs all 4x4?

Most early SUV models were four-wheel drive. As SUVs are being used more on-road than off-road, manufacturers have opted to use a more affordable 4x2 model, saving on the additional cost of front wheel drivetrains. The Mitsubishi Montero and the Toyota Fortuner both have 4x2 options.

Fuel Economy vs. Power

Despite their huge size and enormous weight, the increased demand for SUVs has led manufacturers to increase power outputs and efficiency of both the diesel and gasoline engines that they offer. The power outputs of the modern turbo diesels have never been this high thanks to the advancements of the direct fuel injection system. This power output did not come with a compromise as fuel efficiency has also increased. The Toyota Fortuner runs at 15.5 km/L of diesel while producing 148horsepower and 400Nm of torque. The Ford Everest consumes 17.62 Km/L and produces 158hp and 385Nm of torque from its 2.2Liter Turbo Engine.

If you’re planning to get yourself an SUV, now is the right time to buy as the market is flooded with options.  Even the Chinese manufacturers are giving the mainstays a run for their money!