For a while now, SUVs have been steadily increasing in popularity while sedans have been on the decline. In fact, for every sedan sold in 2019, two people bought SUVs . There are several reasons for this trend, but here are four of the most significant ones.
- SUVs can accommodate more people and cargo.
- SUVs tend to have better fuel economy than sedans.
- SUVs offer more features and creature comforts than sedans.
- SUVs have better performance and versatility.
Here’s a blow-by-blow breakdown:
1. SUVs can accommodate more people and cargo.
SUVs usually have three rows of seating, which means they can comfortably seat up to seven or eight people, depending on the model. This is ideal for larger families or groups who want to travel together. In addition, SUVs typically have more cargo space than sedans. This is perfect for hauling luggage, sports equipment, or shopping bags.
The most spacious SUVs in the market are the Chevrolet Suburban, the Chevrolet Tahoe, the Ford Expedition Max, and the Toyota Sequoia. With SUVs , cargo space is measured by how big the cabin is behind the front row. The Chevy Suburban wins by having 144.7 cubic feet of space in that area, followed by the Tahoe (with 122.9 cubic feet ), the Expedition Max (121.5 cubic feet ), and then the Sequoia (120.1 cubic feet ).
2. SUVs tend to have better fuel economy than sedans.
While there are some exceptions, SUVs generally get better gas mileage than sedans. This is due to several factors, including aerodynamics and engine efficiency. Generally though, since there are at least four types of SUVs (or more, depending on who you ask), smaller SUVs consume less fuel. However, their added cargo space also means having to make fewer trips over their lifetime. In the long run, you can save more money if you opt for an SUV over a sedan.
Many SUVs have hybrid variants, and they are the most fuel-efficient vehicles in their class. The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid leads the pack, topping off at 40 miles per gallon, followed closely by the Toyota Venza at 39 miles per gallon. Two fellow Asian carmakers tie for third place: the Hyundai Tucson Hybrid and the Honda CR-V Hybrid both consume 38 miles per gallon.
3. SUVs offer more features and creature comforts than sedans.
SUVs typically come with more standard features than sedans, such as four-wheel drive, lane departure warning systems, and adaptive cruise control. In addition, many SUVs offer luxury features such as heated seats, leather upholstery, and passenger entertainment systems that you would only find in luxury sedans. As a result, you’ll enjoy a higher level of comfort and convenience if you choose an SUV over a sedan.
Land Rover’s Range Rover is one of the most expensive and luxurious cars in the market today, boasting of sophisticated design inside and out. It’s an electric SUV that rivals Tesla cars in terms of features. It has cameras for both self-parking, rearview mirrors, blind-spot assist, a rear traffic monitor, and even the ground under the vehicle. The top-of-the-line model of the Range Rover line is priced at about $215,500.
The Rolls-Royce Cullinan , however, is the most expensive among all SUVs . Named after an ultra-large diamond, it has a price tag that lives up to its name, at about $335,350 for a base model and $465,000 for the best one. It has mechanized doors and uses GPS to survey the road ahead, making each ride as luxurious and comfortable as possible, from the moment you get on until the moment you arrive.
4. SUVs have better performance and versatility.
SUVs have better performance and versatility than other types of cars. This is because SUVs were initially built for off-road driving and can handle a variety of terrains and conditions. They also offer more features than other types of cars, such as four-wheel drive, various terrain driving modes, adaptive suspension, and differential locks, which makes them ideal for traveling in difficult terrain or adverse weather conditions. In addition, SUVs offer more storage space than other types of cars, making them perfect for hauling luggage or equipment anywhere. Also, because SUVs are built to handle the great outdoors, you can use almost any SUV anywhere, with or without aftermarket parts. Whether you’re in a stock Jeep Wrangler, or a fully-kitted out Lexus GX 460 with rock sliders and a snorkel, you won’t have to worry much about getting stranded; all the additional accessories just make it easier, but they’re all optional.
Final Thoughts
All things considered, it’s not hard to see why SUVs are becoming increasingly popular while sedans are falling out of favor. If you’re in the market for a new car, an SUV is definitely worth considering thanks to its spacious interior, fuel efficiency, and an array of features and creature comforts.
