Crossovers and SUVs dominate today’s automotive market, but what are their main differences? While both fall under the broad category of sport utility vehicles (SUVs), they differ in how they're built, how they drive, and what they’re designed to do. Which one would best meet your needs? Knowing how crossovers and SUVs compare in areas such as fuel efficiency, ground clearance, handling, and drivetrain options, such as all-wheel drive (AWD) or front-wheel drive (FWD), makes it easier to choose the one that fits your lifestyle.
- Body-on-Frame vs. Unibody Construction
- Are SUVs More Capable than Crossovers?
- Benefits of SUVs Over Crossovers
- Benefits of Crossovers Over SUVs
Body-on-Frame vs. Unibody Construction
The key difference is found under the skin. Traditional SUVs are built with body-on-frame construction, the same method used for a pickup truck chassis. This means the vehicle’s body is mounted on a separate chassis, providing the strength for serious off-road capabilities, heavy loads, and towing.
By contrast, most crossover utility vehicles (or CUVs) use a unibody construction, also called a unibody platform. It’s a car-like design, rather than a truck-based one, which merges the body and the frame into a single structure—just like passenger cars, minivans, wagons, and some light-duty pickups. This car platform leads to lower weight, generating increased fuel economy and a better ride quality.
Are SUVs More Capable than Crossovers?
When it comes to off-road capability, four-wheel drive (4WD) performance, and hauling heavy loads, traditional SUVs shine. Their body-on-frame design and higher ground clearance, along with drivetrain options such as rear-wheel drive (RWD), locking differentials, or selectable 4WD, give them the upper hand on rugged terrain. Automakers often use solid axles, which add strength and durability for towing.
By contrast, crossover SUVs are designed for on-road comfort. Most use independent suspension systems at all four corners, which improve ride quality and handling on the road but typically limit off-road functionality. This setup, paired with a unibody platform, makes crossovers lighter, easier to maneuver, and better suited to daily driving.
Benefits of SUVs Over Crossovers
Here are some of the reasons in favor of a traditional SUV:
Towing Capacity: With truck DNA, these types of vehicles are better suited for towing boats, trailers, or campers.
Off-Road Capabilities: SUVs are ideal for adventures that require high clearance and a 4WD platform. The use of solid axles provides better articulation on uneven terrain, which translates into better grip.
Upgrades: Modifying them with lifts, lockers, or rugged suspension parts is often simple and relatively affordable.
Durability: The body-on-frame approach is known for its durability under demanding conditions, thanks to its use of heavy, rugged components.
Interior Space: Large dimensions often mean more space for passengers, cargo, and everything that comes with busy weekends.
Versatility: Great for drivers who need a mix of daily driving and weekend hauling.
Examples include full-size SUVs such as the Chevy Suburban and the Toyota Sequoia, and mid-size SUVs such as the Ford Bronco, the Jeep Wrangler, and the Toyota 4Runner.
Benefits of Crossovers Over SUVs
For daily driving, challenging weather, and light off-road use, crossovers are often the ideal choice. They offer the following benefits:
Fuel-efficient: Their unibody construction keeps weight down, for maximum fuel efficiency and reduced emissions.
Comfortable: Built on car-based platforms, they drive more like a sedan than a truck, making them easier to handle in everyday traffic.
Affordable: Lower pricing and maintenance costs make them more budget-friendly.
Family-friendly: With clever storage, easy access, and available AWD, they’re perfect for growing families.
Space: Many offer generous interior space and cargo space in a more compact footprint, so they excel at practicality.
Crossovers are available in a wide range of sizes. Subcompact options, such as the Hyundai Kona or the Chevrolet Trailblazer are perfect for city life, because they’re like slightly taller hatchbacks. Many fall into the compact SUV, small SUV, or mid-size classes and include vehicles such as the Subaru Outback, the Nissan Rogue, the Honda CR-V, the Toyota RAV4, and the Ford Escape. At the larger end, crossovers such as the Infiniti QX60, the Toyota Highlander, and the Honda Pilot deliver three rows of seating with the comfort and driving dynamics of a passenger car.
Still undecided? Explore CarGurus listings to compare powertrains, seating, features, and pricing to find the right fit for your garage.
