What is a parquet SUV. What is the difference between a crossover and an SUV? What is SUV and crossover

If it is not difficult to distinguish a sedan from a hatchback and a coupe from a convertible, since the main discrepancy lies in the body of the cars, then it is not so easy to find the difference between SUVs and crossovers at first glance. Their feature is a two-volume station wagon body and increased ground clearance, and outwardly they look almost the same. In fact, there is a significant difference between them, and it lies in the design features of cars, so you should understand well how a crossover differs from an SUV.

Definitions

In fact, the main differences between the classes of these cars can be found in the names. The main feature of the SUV is the increased cross-country ability, that is, the ability to move not only on public roads, but also on rough terrain. This is achieved with the help of the design features of the car - the supporting frame, all-wheel drive, increased ground clearance, etc. However, this does not mean that SUVs are not capable of driving on city roads - they are distinguished by their versatility, that is, the ability to relatively comfortably transport a car owner on all types of road surfaces.

In Russia, the term "off-road vehicle" is synonymous with the concepts of "off-road vehicle" and "jeep". Perhaps it is the term "off-road vehicle" that most fully reveals the definition of this class of car, however, the more popular "off-road vehicle" has become entrenched. The concept of "jeep" appeared in our country during the Second World War - it was the cars of this brand that became the first SUVs that came to the USSR. Real cars of this type are often not very comfortable on ordinary asphalt roads, because their element is rough terrain. However, this statement does not apply to the most expensive representatives of the class - such cars feel good on asphalt as well.

Do not confuse the concepts of "SUV" and "jeep": the first is a subspecies of cars, and the second is a brand that has become a symbol of SUVs (Jeep)

It also largely reveals its essence and a new concept in the automotive industry - "SUV". Such cars only mimic real SUVs. Despite their appearance (wagon body, and often increased ground clearance), they can only move along ordinary asphalt roads. The reason for the appearance of SUVs was the popularity of SUVs. Automobile concerns quickly found out that most car owners who bought SUVs almost never leave ordinary roads. And if the car is not used off-road, then it does not need increased cross-country ability. This is how passenger cars appeared, only outwardly repeating the features of an SUV, but not possessing its design features. In addition, SUVs are distinguished by a low price, because they do not need to complicate and increase the cost of construction. Often, SUVs do not even have all-wheel drive, so their difference from ordinary cars can only be in a raised body.

A crossover is a cross between real SUVs and SUVs. Currently, it is crossovers that have gained the greatest popularity compared to their competitors. Such a car feels great on ordinary roads, almost as good as sedans and hatchbacks and surpassing classic SUVs. However, even outside the asphalt roads, the crossover is not as helpless as the SUV. This type of car is quite capable of overcoming light off-road due to the presence of all-wheel drive. So we can say that the crossover is a good compromise between real SUVs and SUVs.

Technical features

Now you should understand the specific technical features of each of these classes of cars, which determine their main differences from each other.

patency

The main differences between all three classes of cars lie in the cross-country ability, the difference of which is determined by the design of the machine components. SUVs are characterized by increased cross-country ability - they easily overcome rough terrain.

The element of SUVs and crossovers is asphalt roads. However, if the SUV can get stuck even on a track that is not cleared of snow, then rural roads, and sometimes light off-road, are subject to the crossover. The SUV is a purely urban car, and in terms of cross-country ability it is not much different from golf-class cars.

wheels

On SUVs and crossovers, standard low-profile tires are usually installed. Wheel size - normal, as for cars. As for SUVs, due to the large size of such cars and the need to move off-road, large wheels are installed on them - from 30 inches.

Driving an off-road vehicle means an increased load on the wheels, and therefore the tires must be of the appropriate size.

Body

For real SUVs, until recently, a frame body structure was strictly mandatory. The frame chassis, on which the rest of the vehicle's components and assemblies are attached, allows the SUV to evenly distribute the load, which is an advantage on rough terrain. This design allows you to raise the car body to install wheels of a larger diameter, which also leads to an increase in cross-country ability. The body is attached to the frame with brackets. It can be semi-supporting (partially carry the load on the frame), or completely unloaded (found only on commercial vehicles).

The disadvantage of the frame structure is the vibrations transmitted to the body at high speeds, which reduces the comfort of travel on frame SUVs. To reduce vibrations, it is necessary to increase the mass of the body, which leads either to a decrease in speed characteristics, or with an increase in engine power, to an increase in fuel consumption. Therefore, even full-fledged SUVs are gradually moving away from a rigid frame structure and often use a lightweight frame with a semi-supporting body.

As for SUVs and crossovers, the frame structure is not used in them. The load is taken by a fully load-bearing body. Such a scheme makes it possible to lighten the mass of the car, but such a body is not suitable for off-road - due to the uneven distribution of the load on an uneven surface, the load-bearing body is less preferable. It is worth noting that on some crossover models an integrated circuit with subframes or side members is used, which are integrated into the power frame of the body. This design increases the rigidity of the body, which has a positive effect on the handling of the car.

The frame design involves fastening the body, suspension and engine to a frame consisting of channels

Transmission

On SUVs, the transmission looks rather banal - an ordinary manual or automatic transmission without any frills. The drive of the car in most cases is front.

With SUVs, things are much more interesting. It is the transmission of these cars that largely determines the increased cross-country ability of representatives of this class.

On full-fledged SUVs, a scheme with a transfer case is used, which allows you to distribute torque between axles and increase it on the drive wheels. "Razdatka" is equipped with a reduction gear, which serves to increase torque when driving off-road. It is also equipped with a center differential to distribute torque between the axles. If the car is equipped with a locking center differential, then this allows you to solve the problem of a suspended wheel when only it rotates. The center differential lock allows all four wheels to rotate synchronously, including the posted one. It can be automatic or forced to connect at the request of the driver. Four-wheel drive can be permanent or connected off-road.

As for crossovers, in terms of transmission, they are close to SUVs, although many models have all-wheel drive. On modern crossovers, it is most often electronic - the control unit detects slippage and connects the second axle. There is no transfer case or downshift on crossovers - these functions are simply not needed on asphalt. In inexpensive trim levels, crossovers are not equipped with all-wheel drive at all - only one axle is leading.

Suspension

Finally, let's analyze the last node, which lies the difference between the types of cars presented. Crossovers are usually equipped with independent multi-link suspension, much needed to improve handling on smooth asphalt roads. The suspension of SUVs is a little simpler - often the rear axle is a torsion beam, and only the front axle is independent.

In the modern world, multi-link independent suspension is the most common type of suspension and is often used on crossovers.

As for full-fledged SUVs, their suspension is usually dependent with a continuous axle. This type of suspension for off-road vehicles comes in two varieties: on longitudinal springs and with guide levers. SUVs are characterized by a large suspension travel, which is invaluable in rough terrain. In general, the SUV suspension is highly reliable, but it is not very comfortable when driving at high speeds on asphalt. Handling SUVs can be described as average.

The main representatives of the classes

SUVs were the first among the representatives of the classes under consideration. Now the proportions of sales of SUVs, SUVs and crossovers are almost equal. At the same time, the share of sold SUVs is gradually falling, while crossovers and SUVs are growing.

The first mass SUV was the legendary Willys MB, which appeared during the Second World War. Gradually, SUVs won the hearts of ordinary buyers due to their unpretentiousness and ease of use in rural areas. Now such domestic cars as the UAZ models (“Patriot” and “Hunter”) and the legendary classic “Niva” belong to the class of SUVs. Among foreign models, it is impossible not to mention the frame Japanese, especially the models of the Toyota concern - Land Cruiser 200, Land Cruiser Prado and 4Runner. Other manufacturers from the Land of the Rising Sun also produce full-fledged SUVs. These include Mitsubishi Pajero Sport, Nissan Patrol and a kind of Suzuki Jimny. Quite a few SUVs are found among models of premium Japanese brands: Infiniti QX80, Lexus LX and GX compete with premium American SUVs Chevrolet Tahoe, Cadillac Escalade and Jeep Grand Cherokee. There are practically no SUVs among European automotive giants, but it is worth noting the legendary models - Land Rover Defender and Mercedes-Benz G-class.

The most recognizable SUVs include Toyota Land Cruiser, Mitsubishi Pajero, Suzuki Jimny and Jeep Grand Cherokee.

Toyota RAV4 is one of the first full-fledged crossovers, and is now considered the leader in this segment. Over time, crossovers have won the hearts of buyers, so now a rare manufacturer does without a car of this class in its lineup. Crossovers include such models of Japanese concerns as:

• Toyota Highlander;
• Nissan X-Trail, Murano, Rogue and Pathfinder;
• Subaru Forester;
• Honda CRV and Pilot;
• Mitsubishi Outlander;
• Suzuki Grand Vitara.

Do not lag behind the Japanese and manufacturers from other countries. Among Korean crossovers, Hyundai Tucson, Hyundai Santa Fe, Kia Sportage and Kia Sorento should be noted. Almost all off-road vehicles among European concerns are also crossovers. These are, for example, representatives of the German brand Volkswagen (Tiguan and Touareg), although there are ongoing disputes about the Tuareg about which type of car it belongs to. Many models of premium brands are considered crossovers: Volvo XC 90, BMW X1, X3 and X5, Mercedes GLK and others. Among the crossovers is one of the leaders of the Russian market Renault Duster, which has an all-wheel drive system in almost all trim levels.

Some of the most striking crossovers are Toyota Highlander, Honda CRV, Kia Sportage and Volvo XC90.

For the most part, SUVs are “made up” for crossovers of models B and C classes, which have increased ground clearance. A feature of SUVs is that they are often produced already on the basis of existing models. Thanks to the unification of parts, their production is much cheaper. Often they are only slightly raised hatchbacks or station wagons, but sometimes engineers develop a separate body for them. Representatives of this class include Nissan Qashqai and Juke, Kia Soul, Renault Sandero Stepway, Hyundai Creta, although the latter is at the intersection of classes and may well claim the title of crossover. An example of a domestic SUV can be considered the AvtoVAZ Lada XRAY model.

Cars such as Nissan Qashqai, Kia Soul, Lada XRAY and Peugeot 3008 skillfully disguise themselves as crossovers, although in reality they are SUVs.

What to choose

It is impossible to say unequivocally which class of cars is better, because each of them has its own specific purpose. Both SUVs and SUVs with crossovers have their fans. Therefore, a buyer who is evaluating the purchase of a car and choosing between these three types needs to decide in what conditions he will operate the purchase. If you plan to drive a lot on bad or rural roads, including those that are not cleared of snow in winter, then the choice should be stopped on an SUV. If a potential car owner has an unlimited budget, then you can look at expensive luxury SUVs - such cars, in addition to the ability to move off-road, are distinguished by increased comfort, so they feel great on the pavement.

In the event that the car is planned to be operated exclusively in urban conditions, then it is better to take a closer look at the SUVs. Such cars are less bulky than SUVs, they are easier to maneuver in urban conditions, and it is also easier to find parking for this class. These cars are much cheaper and often more comfortable. So for a city dweller who does not have a large budget for buying a car, the SUV is the best choice.

As already mentioned, the crossover is a kind of compromise between an SUV and an SUV. In the event that it is planned to operate the car on asphalt, but going on light off-road is still possible, then it is better to opt for a crossover. In the city, this type of car is in no way inferior to sedans or hatchbacks, and thanks to the high seating position and increased ground clearance, it even has the advantage of better visibility and the ability to move over pits and potholes. Well, in light off-road conditions, the crossover should show itself perfectly at all, the main thing is not to call in where the elements of real brutal SUVs begin.

Gradually, the lines between SUVs, crossovers and SUVs are blurred. Many modern SUVs are no less comfortable and no worse to drive than a standard crossover. In turn, crossovers show all the best off-road performance. For example, the Volkswagen Touareg, equipped with the optional Offroad package, can easily compete with the best representatives of the SUV class in terms of cross-country ability. As for SUVs, their off-road qualities are also gradually improving, and in expensive trim levels equipped with an all-wheel drive system, some models can be considered full-fledged crossovers.

SUVs and crossovers are vehicles with great potential. Both in the city and outside the settlements, they are your reliable friends.

What is a crossover (car)

Crossovers are a new generation of SUVs based on passenger cars, equipped with all the features for driving outside the city. Compared to jeeps, crossovers are less passable, endowed with a weaker suspension, but they are always of impressive size, and comfort is their main plus.

From English...

The term came to us from the American abbreviation CUV, the first letter of which denotes the actual crossover, the rest - Utility Vehicle. The literal translation is service vehicle. The word crossover itself is translated as "hybrid", "mixture". That is, this is a car that has the best characteristics of a passenger car and some of the capabilities of a jeep. But at the same time, it is not intended for off-road driving. Therefore, it is also called "SUV" (parquet crossover).

The history of the class

The term began to be used by manufacturing companies in the 90s. All experimental models created before 2000 can no longer be called crossovers today in the sense in which we understand them. After 2000, the family version of sports cars approached this concept. Among the first were: RAV4 from Toyota, from Jeep.

And yet, many do not know exactly what a crossover (car) is and how to distinguish it from other cars.

Character traits

Crossovers of all brands are distinguished by the following main features:

• Big wheels. Although in reality this is just an illusion brought to life by designers and developers.
• Wide - a specially added detail to make the car aggressive.
• Angularity in appearance for a greater similarity with SUVs, successfully combined with modern smoothness of lines.
• The presence behind the rear door of an additional triangular window.
• High landing, respectively, and high ceilings.
• High quality modern materials.

The way crossovers look, their characteristics - all this betrays the true purpose of this class of cars. They are designed to embody brutality, provide their owner with increased comfort and ease of movement.

Passenger car - crossover - SUV

What is a crossover (car) as a species? It is not for nothing that the classes are presented in this order in the subheading of the article. All motorists know that a passenger car outperforms an SUV in terms of speed (engine power). And the latter, in turn, is ahead of cars in the ability to pass through difficult places. By purchasing a crossover, we get a good combination of speed and increased (in comparison with a passenger car) cross-country ability. That is why they talk about it as a universal machine, which has all the characteristics necessary for a modern person. This is the difference between SUVs and crossovers. Therefore, the latter are so in demand today, both among men and women.

Varieties and prices

Today on the auto market, crossovers are presented in a huge assortment (from each well-known manufacturer at least one model). Among them there are all-wheel drive. Available with three rows of seats. To understand the types and models, it took a classification by size:

• mini - Fiat Sedici (cost about 800 tr); Ford EcoSport of various configurations (average price 760 thousand rubles); Mitsubishi Pajero Mini (cost 800 tr); Suzuki SX4 new (650 thousand rubles); Volkswagen CrossFox (500 thousand rubles),
• small - Chery Tiggo and Toyota Matrix (500 thousand rubles), Hyundai Tucson (about 1 million rubles), Mitsubishi ASX new models 900 thousand rubles. - 1100 thousand rubles, Nissan Qashqai - 1300 thousand rubles, Skoda Yeti - 1100 thousand rubles, BMW X1 - 1600 thousand rubles),
• compact - 1400 tr., Audi Q3),
• medium (Hyundai Santa Fe - 1700 thousand rubles, Audi Q5 on average 1800 thousand rubles, BMW X3 - 2300 thousand rubles, Infiniti EX - 2 million rubles, Kia Sorento new 1700 thousand rubles, Lexus RX 3300 thousand rubles, GLK from Mercedes - 2200 thousand rubles, Nissan Murano - 1900 thousand rubles, Toyota Highlander - 2 million rubles, Tagaz Road Partner - 600 thousand rubles)
• and full-size (Acura MDX - 2900 thousand rubles, Audi Q7 - 3-5 million rubles, BMW X5 and X6 - 3-5.5 million rubles, Infiniti FX - 2100 thousand rubles, CX-9 from Mazda - 1900 thousand rubles, GL-Class and M-Class from Mercedes-Benz - 3.5-5.5 million rubles, Porsche Cayenne on average 7.5 million rubles, Volkswagen Touareg - 3300 thousand rubles, Volvo XC90 - 2100 tr.).

Price policy

Another benefit of crossovers over SUVs is their affordability. What, however, can not be said about their individual representatives.

For example, the Mercedes crossover is always a trouble-free braking system,
sports suspension, all-wheel drive, economical fuel consumption (for example, a full-size M-class 11 liters per standard 100 km, cost 3 million 900 tons). The company always strives to be the first in everything: their new modification has 3 doors.

Chinese crossover cars, on the contrary, are the cheapest on the market. Of these, Chery IndiS (450 thousand rubles), Gelly Emgrand X7 (670 thousand rubles), Lifan X60 (580 thousand rubles) are noteworthy.

Most Popular Models

The rating of crossovers is created not only by price and manufacturer, but also by variety. Among the compact ones in 2011, the Audi Q3 was recognized as the best (cost about 1.5 million rubles), and among the full-size ones in 2014 - Mercedes-Benz, BMW X5, Porsche Cayenne worth more than 4 million rubles.

1. Subaru Forester - 1100-1400 thousand rubles (consumes 9 liters of fuel per 100 km; best in crash tests).
2. Honda CR-V - 1100-1650 t.r. (per 100 km - 10 liters).
3. Mazda CX-5 - from 1 to 1.5 million rubles. (9.4 l).
4. Toyota RAV-4 - the price is the same as the previous model (consumption 8 liters).

The most popular models - regardless of price or classification - are still the Toyota RAV4 (its improved model compared to the first created in 1994), Porsche Cayenne, Nissan Qashqai, Volkswagen Tiguan.

The most economical models

These can be called models in which, with sufficient engine power (150 hp with an engine volume of 2.0 liters), fuel consumption is minimal (7 liters per standard 100 km). These models include: Renault Koleos, KIA Sportage, Hyundai Santa Fe, Hyundai Tucson, Mercedes GLK, Nissan Qashqai, Mitsubishi Outlander, Land Rover Freeland, Audi Q5, BMW X3, Subaru Forester.

Favorite models of Russians

In first place we have the French Renault Duster. Its obvious advantages are
reasonable price (490 tr.), European brand. Features: front-wheel drive; 1.6 liter engine, 102 hp. With. Acceleration is possible in the city to the standard 100 km / h in a matter of seconds (11). Calm disposition and high cross-country ability - this is exactly what many motorists will like for such an affordable price.

The same company also offers all-wheel drive models, with an automatic transmission and a 2-liter engine. In this modification, the model costs about 680 tr.

In second place is a crossover from the Japanese company Nissan, the X-Trail model (II generation). The starting price of the new model is 970 thousand rubles. All-wheel drive, 2-liter engine, 140 hp. With. (there is another option: 2.5 liters - this gives us 169 horsepower for 1 million 160 tons), a manual gearbox, as well as downhill and start-up assistance systems.

Oddly enough, in third place was the Russian car enthusiast Chevrolet Niva, in the technical characteristics of which it says: "Off-road vehicle". Despite the fact that the car was produced under an American brand, it was developed and assembled by us. This car combines low cost (old models can be taken for 230 thousand rubles, new ones - from 550 thousand rubles) and high ability to overcome various obstacles. "Niva" from "Chevrolet" is a four-wheel drive and a unique system that allows you to really get out of the most difficult situations (ice, snowdrifts, liquid mud, deep puddles). However, the Niva engine is rather weak - 80 hp. s., volume 1.7 (latest model 2014). Inside - only minimal options. But for many incorrigible travelers, she can become a reliable companion.

When an SUV is needed

Russian roads and weather conditions make motorists choose between a passenger car and an SUV in favor of the latter. But it remains unclear - why infringe on power and deny yourself a full-fledged SUV? After all, among them there are both expensive and affordable options, for example, the Chevrolet Niva.

An SUV is necessary when the car is frequently used on poor or absent road surfaces, i.e., mainly in rural, taiga areas. It is also needed by lovers of outdoor activities: fishermen, hunters. Owning such a car gives you the opportunity to get to places where you would not go.
driver of any other car. And all thanks to the cross-country ability, all-wheel drive, high suspension.

Surprisingly, even the Russian "Niva" is able to plow a kilometer-long snowdrift without stopping once. And the American version of this model is able to carry a hunter during the day through the entire forest; a fisherman - to his favorite place by a river or lake, even in summer (when all trails and roads are dry), even in autumn (or when any nook and cranny ends with an immense puddle, impassable slush).

Mid-price SUV: what is it

Mid-price can be called all models from 900 tr. up to 1.5 million rubles, although many Russians are looking for and finding good options up to 800 thousand rubles.

The most popular models are Hyundai ix35 (in the basic configuration - from 920 thousand rubles), Peugeot 4007 (from 960 thousand rubles), Toyota RAV4 (available in the configuration for 960 thousand rubles), from Mazda - the CX model -5 (price starts from 920 thousand rubles), Ford Kuga (from 970 thousand rubles). All these models are approximately the same in terms of technical characteristics: about 150 hp. with., engine 2-2.4 liters. In the basic configuration: manual transmission, front-wheel drive.

Take for example the beloved progenitors of all Toyota RAV4 crossovers in the first all-wheel drive configuration with a starting price of 1200 tr. This is RAV4 2.0 MT 4WD comfort, produced since February 2013.

• Dimensions. Body 4.5 m long, 1.8 wide, 1.7 high. Accordingly, the salon: 1.9 * 1.5 * 1.2. Seats 4, seats 5. Maximum load capacity 470 kg. Permissible trailer weight - 750 kg. Trunk capacity 506 liters. The volume of the fuel tank is 60 liters.
• Power. Engine - 146 liters. With. Volume - 1.9 liters. Accelerates to hundreds of kilometers per hour in 10.7 seconds (good result). Engine type: 4-cylinder. Ecological type - euro-4.
• Fuel. Gasoline, starting from 95 AI. Consumption in the city - 10 l; outside - 6.4 l; in the combined cycle - 8 l (per 100 km / h).
• Headlights: xenon, fog front, LED.
• Safety. Both the front passenger and the driver have side airbags. The car is equipped with: anti-lock braking system, auxiliary braking system, parking sensors (radar device for safe parking, not the same as intelligent assistance!), hill-climbing assistance (not when descending).
• Automatically activated during emergency braking alarm.
• Cruise control- a system that evenly regulates the speed without the participation of the driver (increases if necessary and decreases, for example, when descending). The car is equipped with the function of turning on the headlights for 45 seconds after locking the car, so that the driver can safely (in the light) reach the door of the house at night. From here the system got its name - "Take me home." And, it should be noted, it is rarely found in mid-range models. An immobilizer is an anti-theft electronic device (it immobilizes a car when it is stolen).

• Comfort. Audio system on the steering wheel (buttons). Upholstery in fabric (not leather). The front and rear seats have separate armrests. In the cabin - air conditioning, climate control. Good sound system with six speakers, USB input and Bluetooth. Rain sensors. On-board computer.
• Other characteristics. 6-speed gearbox. Steering wheel turns up to 2.8. Suspension independent with stabilizer. The rear window and mirrors are electrically heated, as are the front seats. Central locking. There is a rear view camera. Self-dimming mirror with anti-dazzle effect (only one such - rear-view). Comes with a spare wheel.

Thus, answering the main question of the article - what is a crossover (car), - let's summarize what has been said: it can't handle driving in swampy areas, but the SUV is a good (economical, comfortable, reliable and safe) option for driving in Russian snowdrifts , along country paths to the cottage, garden or beach.

Over time, everything changes for the better, the division into SUVs and crossovers is indirect evidence of this. An additional classification of off-road vehicles arose due to the improvement in the quality of roads. It became obvious that the average driver does not need to tow heavy loads and storm off-road, but the economical one is a highly demanded characteristic.

The attitude towards SUVs is also changing among the inhabitants of Russia, however, the quality of roads is probably in last place here. A third of the cars in our country can be attributed to off-road vehicles, but there are hardly a couple of percent of clean all-terrain vehicles among them. Consider the main differences, advantages and disadvantages of crossovers and SUVs.

Application area

SUV

The main functions of off-road vehicles are overcoming obstacles, moving on heavy off-road, towing. These qualities are in the first place, and it is difficult to combine them with economical consumption. Moreover, even modern technologies do not allow for precise control of off-road vehicles on asphalt.

The main representatives of the class are UAZ products, Land Rover, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Nissan Patrol cars. Despite the impressive dimensions and spacious body, comfort here is a relative concept, and it is achieved at the expense of a considerable price. SUVs can be used as working equipment and for traveling to exotic places, otherwise their presence in the garage is a tribute to fashion.

crossover

Crossovers are popular where overcoming light off-road periodically occurs, but you have to drive mainly on asphalt. This is a car for residents of megacities who want to have a means of transportation outside the city limits. The main trump card of the crossover is the platform of a passenger car, which significantly reduces weight and improves control accuracy.

Examples of the genre are Toyota RAV4, Hyundai Santa Fe, Honda CR-V, VW Tiguan. These cars are ideal for the role of a family car. High ground clearance allows you to use them for a comfortable journey, going on a picnic, etc.

Design features

SUV

From the point of view of the Russian language, it is more correct to call this class off-road vehicles, however, the traditional name also makes sense. A car operated off-road must have increased reliability and everything necessary to get out of the most impassable mud. Hence the peculiarities of technology.

• Transmission. A real SUV must necessarily have a permanent one. A plug-in all-wheel drive can serve as an alternative, but if we are talking about a classic all-terrain vehicle, then the second axle should be “turned on” manually, and not through viscous couplings. A center differential with the possibility of mechanical locking is practically mandatory, and even better - with a wheel lock. You should not call an SUV a car without a reduction gear, since this is one of the main tools for overcoming tough off-road conditions. Ideally, the transfer case should have a reduction gear and a direct gear.
• Suspension. Must be partially or wholly dependent. The comfort of riding on such a “feather bed” is much lower, but it pays off with high reliability. Nevertheless, the suspension should also have an additional margin of safety. SUVs have noticeably more suspension travel, and this is due to the need to keep the wheel on the ground in any position of the body.
• Body. The classic SUV is a rigid frame structure. However, today the body on the frame is quite rare, and the necessary rigidity is achieved through other elements.
• patency. The front and rear overhang of the all-terrain vehicle is minimal, this provides a large angle of exit and climb uphill. Geometry plays an important role here. High ground clearance is seen as a must, but just as important is the wheelbase and track. Thanks to them, the car can overcome bumps by hanging one of the wheels.
• wheels. Diameter starts at 30 inches. A common symptom is the presence of a noticeable sidewall on the wheels.

crossover

The main difference between the classes is in the purposes and methods of exploitation. Crossovers do not need permanent all-wheel drive, since on asphalt it will only lead to additional fuel consumption, and the use of a transfer case can hardly be imagined in urban conditions. Nevertheless, a city dweller also has to meet with small obstacles, hence the design features.

• Transmission. Modern manufacturers competently use the capabilities of all-wheel drive: it is connected only when necessary. Torque distribution can be done both with the help of slip signaling electronics and with the help of mechanical devices. For example, Honda uses a dual-circuit hydraulic interlock, which, with a difference in pressure, redistributes torque through the clutch in favor of the slipping axle.
• Suspension. The priority for crossovers is handling with a bias towards comfort on a broken road. Both rear and front suspensions are independent. Long operation outside the asphalt strip is not recommended.
• Body. The crossover is a passenger car with a wide operating area. This difference is also evident in the body, which is never placed on a frame, but has a high torsional rigidity.
• patency. The appearance of the car plays a big role. Chopped overhangs and a raised nose can hardly be considered decoration, so crossovers have low angles of ascent and descent. The clearance is less, but here the loss to SUVs is noticeably lower.
• wheels. Usually low profile, designed for asphalt.

Advantages and disadvantages

As mentioned above, the class of crossovers did not arise from scratch. Demand creates supply. The word "crossover" itself means in English "crossing, mixing". The first crossover can be considered AMC Eagle, the American company Motors Corporation. The model appeared in the early 80s, and the declining level of sales became the reason for its creation. AMC, originally a four-wheel drive all-terrain vehicle, was crossed with a passenger body, and popularity was not long in coming. However, the real breakthrough began at the turn of the century, when this growing market segment forced such giants as BMW, Audi, Mercedes to join the production.

On the video - the differences between an SUV and a crossover or SUV:

The cost of crossovers is noticeably lower, and often this is the main argument in favor of their choice. For example, Renault Duster, which breaks all popularity records in Russia, in the minimum configuration can be purchased for 500 thousand rubles. As for fuel, SUV manufacturers are trying to reduce its consumption by all available means, but a lightweight body gives crossovers a solid head start.

Conclusion

If we compare a crossover and an SUV in the off-road zone, the latter will win by a large margin. But buying such a car just because you will have to drive along a broken track several times in your life hardly makes sense. On the other hand, the passenger qualities of the first are sometimes too obvious, and the margin of safety in Russia will not hurt.

Through the efforts of modern manufacturers, the concept of an SUV has acquired the most vague meaning, and the answer to the question of how a crossover differs from an SUV is, in fact, a prioritization. The automotive market offers models for almost any conditions and financial possibilities, so you should not start from definitions, but solely from your own needs.

To date, there is probably not a single motorist who would know the absolute difference between such types of cars as crossovers, SUVs and SUVs. However, the difference still exists and it is clear that the division in many cases is arbitrary, since there are always machines that are on the border of these classes. And manufacturers, depending on market conditions, tend to name their products accordingly, so you should be careful when purchasing this or that model. So, let's try to figure everything out.

Definitions

To begin with, we will give definitions to all types of cars under consideration:

SUV - here the name already speaks for itself, a car with unsurpassed strength, endurance and maneuverability in reserve, in a word, the true purpose of the car is to conquer off-road.

A crossover is a hybrid of a high-quality passenger car and an SUV with increased ground clearance, which has a more sporty character. The purpose of this machine is to a greater extent the operation in the city, but with periodic field trips.

The SUV is a single-wheel drive configuration of the crossover, but there is no hint of sportiness in this car. The purpose of the car is to drive only around the city, it is not designed for off-road. Even on the primer, not everyone is able to move out. Comparing an SUV and a crossover: the difference in price is also significant, the SUV is cheaper, but this, as a rule, is also due to a less powerful engine than that of a crossover.

Differences on the technical side

The main criteria by which these three classes can be distinguished from each other are still associated, as a rule, with the technical side, namely, with the transmission, body structure and suspension.

Body

Real SUVs usually have a frame body structure, in which all units and components of the car are installed on the base - the frame.

Crossovers include the Audi Q7, Cadillac SRX Porsche Cayenne, Lexus RX, Infinity EX, Jeep Grand.

SUVs mean such models as VW Tiguan, Toyota RAV4, Nissan Qashqai (Murano, X-Trail), KIA Sportage, Honda Pilot.

At the same time, it is worth mentioning the classes standing at the junction. For example, we said that crossovers fundamentally do not have a downshift, while the Range Rover Sport, Porsche Cayenne, Mercedes M-Class, which are positioned as crossovers, have a downshift and combine both the features of an SUV and the features of a crossover.

Conclusion

In conclusion, I would like to note that all the concepts of SUVs, crossovers and SUVs in the modern world are very slippery. And, unfortunately, manufacturers very often use this, calling SUVs crossovers that get stuck even in a little mud, and crossovers SUVs that cannot even master a regular dirt road. Therefore, before purchasing a particular car, we advise you to study in more detail all its characteristics.

Crossovers and SUVs are becoming more and more popular these days. They are not very expensive, and their performance is simply at the highest level. Just like the safety of everyone sitting in the car.

Some people often confuse them, calling each other. But, in fact, there is a difference between two such similar jeeps. And it is significant enough. Let's figure it out today. We will not dwell on any particular model. Let's just compare the external characteristics. So, crossover vs SUV. What's better?

The history of the SUV begins much earlier than crossovers. Such a machine boasts the presence of a frame structure. If you look, then this characteristic is the main definition of a jeep. But, modern models of compact SUVs are produced without a frame. Therefore, they are often confused with crossovers.

Full permanent drive is another definition of jeeps. This program turns on and off automatically. The clearance of an SUV starts from 200 millimeters. From this we can conclude that the ground clearance here is quite high. By the way, the higher it is, the more expensive and safer the car.

The razdatka here is suitable for very strong off-road. Who did not understand, we are talking about lower gears. Shock absorbers and reliable mounts are designed for those roads where, by definition, there is no asphalt and cannot be. This is all the definition of a reinforced suspension.

Another factor that determines an SUV is the size of the body. However, this characteristic is not particularly decisive.

Crossovers are also called SUVs. These cars have a very high cross-country ability, but much less than SUVs. They are a kind of embodiment of the best qualities of the station wagon, hatchback and the jeep itself.

The ride is very quiet and comfortable. They can be produced with engines running on both diesel and gasoline fuels. But, each model is distinguished by very powerful motors.

The crossover is called SUV, but they are somewhat different. In a crossover, the chassis and engine are not mounted on the supporting structure of the body, but on the same parts as in a passenger car. The SUV is the opposite.

The frame structure is completely absent here. SUVs may or may not have all-wheel drive. It all depends on the company - the manufacturer and the type of body. Even if the car is all-wheel drive, it is produced without a permanent drive. It connects with some devices. You can turn it on by slipping on the front wheels.

The ground clearance of SUVs can be low, and the transfer case is completely absent. In general, such models are not designed for strong off-road. They can overcome some ups and downs, but only if they are not strong.

The suspension of such cars looks stronger against the background of a passenger car, but many times weaker than that of an SUV. Therefore, when purchasing a SUV, it is better to avoid large pits. By the way, the crossover body is quite small.

As you can see, crossovers and SUVs are very similar to each other, and you can confuse them. But, if you understand the technical characteristics of the models, the differences become noticeable immediately. To briefly outline all of the above, the crossover differs from the SUV in size, design, cross-country ability and cost.

If you want to drive off-road, then it is best to buy off-road vehicles. Such a level for crossovers is incomprehensible. Of course, all-wheel drive and the design of such machines will help them overcome snow and ice on the roads. But, for more, they are not suitable.

In general, the difference between crossovers and SUVs is much more significant than it might seem at first glance. And it's faster to find their similarities than differences.