All about Sport Utility Vehicle: Popularity, Types & Benefits Explained

In recent years SUVs have been in vogue and have grown in popularity significantly. However, you are in the right place if you don't know much about an SUV! SUV stands for sport utility vehicle and is among the best-selling across the globe. Furthermore, SUVs are available in different types, and if you are considering one, you must know in and out about it.

So, if you want to learn more about SUVs, read below!

Apart from its full form, SUV serves as an automotive jargon that primarily refers to sleek and stylish vehicles offering elegant city driving and also capable of handling rugged terrains. Besides this, an SUV is also tall, provides ample interior space, and is manufactured with components primarily used for rugged use.

These type of cars also serves as great family cars and provide better performance even in icy weather. Also, as mentioned earlier, these are spacious cars, making them an attractive option for individuals looking for family cars. Besides, SUVs are designed with higher seats and raised suspensions that make people with mobility problems easier to travel and also provide safety for children.

Currently, in the Indian market, SUVs are one of the best-selling car variants. The graph of the rising popularity of SUVs has been steep and is expected to continue like this. But, what is in an SUV that makes it so popular among the Indians? Here is the list of top reasons to justify its popularity –

• Attractive Dynamics: Mini SUVs are packed with well-sorted dynamics and boast their monocoque construction. Moreover, it makes them dynamically sorted and priced as sedans and hatchbacks. Hence, buyers can benefit from its aggressive styling and rugged nature without compromising on high-speed stability and handling prowess with a plush ride.
• Affordable Pricing: Since the launch of SUVs in the Indian market, there has been a considerable improvement in its up-gradation regarding the features and pricing. Manufacturers are now racing to launch SUVs that are packed with features with pricing that fits the pocket. Hence, buyers are getting high stability and excellent handling at the same price as hatchbacks and sedans, making it a popular choice.
• High Ground Clearance: To make smaller SUVs more stylish and appealing to the customers, auto manufacturers make the ground clearance quite high. This feature is particularly helpful on Indian roads as they ensure a comfortable drive on water-logged roads and avenues with potholes.
• Rugged Nature: While most automakers produce affordable cars, they might not be comfortable for off-road driving. On the other hand, the tough and rough nature of SUVs provides a helpful balance for offroad driving. Moreover, they have some exceptional components, such as faux skid plates, which also provide glamorous looks for roads.
• Better Seating Capacity: The 5-seating component of most sub-4m SUVs is now common on Indian roads. Also, this is similar to the sitting capacity of hatchbacks and sedans, which are popular family-friendly options. But, while buying a sport utility vehicle, you can opt for the 7-seater option, which is perfect for individuals with a large family.
• Packed With Useful Features: It is not an arcane fact that larger SUVs are loaded with features, but this condition is also valid for smaller SUVs. Most SUVs include an automatic gearbox, a turbo petrol engine, a sunroof, and a two-zone HVAC system for an enhanced experience. Besides this, some other top-notch features are seven airbags and dual-zone climate control, ensuring a safe journey for both the passenger and the driver. Also, they have a wider luggage space, which expands when the rear seat is folded, which is perfect for a family vacation.
• Higher Level of Safety: Although smaller SUVs might not offer enhanced safety like a hatchback or sedans, the larger SUVs are packed with safety features. This is primarily due to its high seating position and its bold stance. Moreover, Tata Nexon is the first Indian car to receive a 5-star rating in the GNCAP crash test, making it one of the safest cars to buy.
• High Seating Place of Driver: This feature in SUVs provides a great benefit for drivers. They can see the road better, which allows them to handle the vehicle more effectively through traffic jams and busy roads, which is valid for larger Indian cities.
• More Capable Off the Tarmac: Although smaller SUVs are not as capable as traditional off-road vehicles, due to their ladder-frame construction and the lack of a 4X4 framework, they are capable of handling off-road drives effectively. They are more effective off the tarmac when compared with hatchbacks and sedans and hence are a popular choice among buyers. So, if you drive more off-road, SUVs are undoubtedly preferable.
• Aspirational: Lastly, SUVs are highly aspirational cars, as they were among the most costly cars a few years back. The owners are elite class people, but with the advent of mini SUVs, all sections of people can afford them, making it one of the most developed car segments.

As mentioned earlier, SUVs are one of the fastest growing car sections in India, and over 130 various models are sold worldwide. Nevertheless, there are various types of SUVs available in the market, and they are –

• Electric SUV: As the world is slowly shifting into eco-friendly options, automakers are launching electric SUVs. These are one of the best options with EV propulsion and also have a modern look, are fashionable and also speedy. A few examples of electric SUVs include Tata Punch EV, Mahindra XUV300 Electric, MG ZS EV Facelift etc.
• Small SUVs: Small SUVs are one of the best sellers in the market currently and are also referred to as compact SUVs. They conquered the tiny and mid-sized sedans, and these are often preferred as family cars over other options. Moreover, tall drivers have an added benefit as most of them have a high seat space, so they fit easily in that space. Also, higher luggage space is an advantage for families. A few examples in this sector include Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, MG Hector and others.
• Mid-Size SUV: Mid-size SUVs comprise features of the smaller-sized SUVs with more luggage and passenger space. Besides this, you will notice an enhanced engine power with high off-road capability in these vehicles. Moreover, due to its large interior space, it has become an attractive option for large families over other cars. Some popular examples include MG Hector Plus, Tata Harrier, Mahindra XUV500 etc.
• Sub-Compact SUVs: Sub-compact SUVs are also known as X-small SUVs, and these are mostly hatchbacks based on a car chassis. These are a preferable option for adult passengers and are well-received by Indian buyers. Primarily, SUVs under 4 meters are included in this segment, and some of the most popular options are Kia Sonet, Hyundai Venue, Maruti Vitara Brezza, Ford EcoSport, Mahindra XUV300, Tata Nexon etc.
• Large-Size SUVs: If you are into bulky cars, then large-size SUVs are one of the best options for you. These heavyweight options are equipped with automatic transmission and provide ease in shifting gears. These also provide higher security features and can effectively manage rough terrains. Some of the bestselling SUVs under this category include Toyota Fortuner, Ford Endeavour, Honda CR-V etc.
• Full-size SUVs: These are the largest SUVs and can generate extra power, room and luxury. Normally, full-size SUVs come with a decent price tag and are perfect if you are seeking luxury, power and comfort simultaneously. Some of the best cars under this section include BMW X7, Toyota Land Cruiser, Mercedes-Benz GLS etc.

If you are sceptical about buying an SUV, here are the top benefits of buying an SUV –

• SUVs Are Fuel Efficient: One of the primary reasons for opting for a sport utility vehicle is its fuel efficiency. Compared to its size, it doesn’t consume much fuel, allowing buyers to save money. Moreover, auto manufacturers are also launching electric SUVs designed to provide eco-friendly and affordable rides.
• Powerful Compared to Other Categories: In case you drive off-road, SUVs are the perfect option for you. They are engineered for stability on rough roads and provide a comfortable ride compared to sedans and hatchbacks.
• Provides Maximum Safety: If you have a family, then safety is one of the primary things you should consider, and SUVs are not going to disappoint your expectations. In most cases, they can take the strong force of a collision and also have airbags that can protect your family in case of any misfortune.
• Can Move Through Flooded Roads: In monsoon travelling through flooded roads can be a considerable problem for a few. However, for SUV's raised height, it can comfortably travel through flooded roads without any significant issue.
• Offers Vast Cabin Space: As mentioned earlier, SUVs are designed to provide large space, so this is an attractive option if you have a large family. Kids can starch their legs freely without worrying about cramps on long journeys.
• Comes With Spacious Cargo: Apart from big cabin space, it also has spacious cargo and perfectly fits large luggage. The space is significantly larger compared to a standard hatchback or sedan, and you can carry everything for a road trip with family and friends.
• Has Extended Maximum Weight Capacity: If you often go on a trip and carry heavy weight or drive with many passengers, you might have trouble driving on bumpy roads. A sedan will struggle to provide a comfortable ride with heavy weight and might flatten the tyres. On the other hand, SUVs have excellent weight capacity, and you can easily steer through bumps and potholes.
• Packs in Maximum Seating Capacity: A sedan usually has a seating capacity of 5, but if you are planning to travel with more passengers, an SUV might fit your requirement. It offers more seating capacity, allows you to carry 7 people to travel with your whole family, and saves fuel on your journey.