SUV’s growing popularity

The automotive market has been stirred since the introduction of Sports Utility Vehicles (SUV) and its half-brother, the Crossover. More than two decades down since it was introduced, sales in these types of vehicles have been steadily increasing with the Toyota Fortuner being the best-selling car at one point.

But why? Are SUVs really as versatile as it should be, or is it just a social symbol? A trend based on social status? To know why the SUV is a hit, we need to briefly look at the qualities that make it a best seller.

Design – SUVs carry the look of elegance and luxury although this might be very subjective. I would want to believe that the SUV’s size and ground clearance are the qualities that make it sell. That utilitarian style combined with the comfort and drivability of a luxury car has made it a favorable choice.

Space – The SUVs tend to be huge in size. But that can be more of an advantage especially if hauling capacity is of importance. Even their half-brother, the crossovers tend to have more cargo space given the fact that it is not even any bigger than a sedan.

SUVs though are purposely built to suit 7-seats comfortably. I tested Crossovers that offered a 7 seat lay-out and it was horribly cramp so not all are fit to seat more people.

I still remember that before the SUV, the station wagons were the preferred choices of the soccer moms. This was actually the design that the SUV was based on.

 Comfort –The tall ground clearance of the SUV combined with more headroom make it easier for us to get in and out. With regards to the ride quality, it really depends on which brand you acquired. But generally, SUVs are as comfortable if not more comfortable with sedans.

SUVs though tend to result in more body roll when cornering due to a higher center of gravity. This issue is commonly resolved with after-market suspensions. One drawback is the ride height, which can be difficult for children and elderly to get in and out. A taller ride height is certainly useful for floods and routes that are less travelled.

Drivability - When it comes to drivability, nothing really beats a sedan or a compact car for that matter.

My wife who was driving a regular hatchback for a number of years felt intimidated at first when she drove an SUV with its size and towering stance. The advantage that the SUV gives with its size is only a disadvantage when it comes to visibility, given larger blind spots and maneuverability within confined spaces.

Advances in technology have made the SUV better than its early examples. Drivability has been improved by leaps and bounds with collision sensors and added driving aids.

By now, you already know why the SUV is a topseller. Almost every benefit that a sedancan offer is in an SUV, plus more. Space, ride height, luxury, all these lure people in the market for a better option to buy SUVs.