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Crossover SUVs are a great option for both families and adventuring individuals. These models provide many of the perks of a truck or Full-Size SUV (weather capabilities, higher views of the road and plenty of cargo space) but without the poor fuel-efficiency drawbacks. Utah Mazda Dealers and KSL.com wants to help you find the perfect crossover SUV, so here are some helpful facts and comparisons.
Understanding the difference between a crossover SUV and a full-size SUV
If you’ve spent time researching vehicles larger than the typical sedan, you’ve likely heard of crossovers and SUVs. Some might think the terms are interchangeable, but this isn’t quite true. When it comes down to it, a crossover vehicle has a one-piece (unibody) structure of body and frame, much like a typical car platform.
On the other hand, full-size or traditional SUVs use a “body on frame” design, or the body as a separate piece built onto the chassis of a truck. Vehicles that don’t use a truck chassis and have a unibody frame allow for better driveability and offer better gas mileage. Thus, you have two of the main benefits of a crossover vehicle.
Crossover comparisons
Now that you understand the difference between crossovers and full-size SUVs, it’s time to learn which crossovers set themselves apart from the pack. Using several factors including safety, fuel economy and affordability, here are some quick spec comparisons of popular crossovers on the market:
Safety
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (www.iihs.org) identifies Top Safety Picks annually and is a great resource for comparing safety aspects of different crossover SUVs. In addition, features like Smart Brake Support and Blind Spot Monitoring are available on select models to increase vehicle safety.
Fuel Economy
Highly rated crossovers like the Toyota RAV4 and Mazda CX-5 with their unibody construction deliver highway MPG estimates over 30 which is 50 percent higher than comparable “body on frame” SUVs. This increased MPG translates into an approximate savings of $600 annually. When you’ve got a lot of places to go and be, every little cent counts in gas savings.
Affordability
The options available in crossover SUV category have exploded over the past decade and represent one of the largest selling segments within the automotive category. Each of the major vehicle manufacturers — Ford, Honda, Toyota, Mazda and General Motors — have a quality vehicle available in each segment. As a consumer, price is a very important factor in deciding which vehicle to purchase. With a little research, you can find equivalent models with an MSRP $1,500 lower along with additional appealing features.
Overall, a crossover SUV is a great choice for many drivers and can provide safety, fuel economy and an enjoyable driving experience at a reasonable price. To find the perfect crossover SUV, visit utahmazdadealers.com or KSL.com/auto today.