If you’re looking for the best way to tackle your daily commute, whether for work or pleasure, a few types of vehicles are more versatile than others. What’s the difference? Let’s compare SUV and Crossover vehicles to determine which is best for you.

SUVs: This vehicle is larger and has greater ground-relative speeds while on four wheels than compact cars. They typically have stiffer suspensions and are less aerodynamic with a shorter wheelbase.

Crossovers: This vehicle is smaller and has less ground-relative speeds while on four wheels than larger, more traditional SUVs. They typically have softer suspensions and are more aerodynamic with a longer wheelbase.

SUVs Versus Crossovers
Drivetrain
Consider your lifestyle if you are unsure whether you need an SUV or a crossover. SUVs have more rugged suspensions and can better handle the different, bumpy terrain on unpaved roads. They also tend to be more expensive and have higher insurance rates because of their added bulk. Crossovers are much easier to drive around town, so if you’re in a heavily populated city, you might prefer a crossover instead of an SUV.

Body Style
Crossovers can be four-door, two-door, or even a unique concept like the Kia Niro. Crossovers are also available with either front, all-wheel drive (AWD) or rear automatics. Most SUVs have either front or all-wheel drive options and manually operated four- or six-speed transmissions.

Safety
SUVs are built for off-road navigation and to provide safer travel in the outdoors. Most SUVs have automatic transmissions that lead occupants in directions of low speed with little or no control over acceleration and braking. Crossovers have more standard safety features, and their transmissions are like those in a traditional car. They provide better control and safety while driving on all road types.

Size and Fuel Economy
Another consideration is fuel economy. SUVs tend to get better gas mileage than crossovers. However, crossovers are often more fuel-efficient overall than SUVs. For example, some crossovers can get up to 25 mpg while an SUV such as the Toyota RAV 4 can get up to 30 mpg.

Price Range
For most SUV buyers, price is a major factor in the decision. For example, the 2013 Ford Explorer Sport scores high in safety and features while costing less than $20K. On the other hand, a slightly more expensive crossover carries with it all of the same safety and feature benefits minus the $20K price tag.

Conclusion
If you’re looking for a more substantial than a compact car, check out an SUV. If you want a vehicle that’s smaller than a compact car, but has better gas mileage than an SUV, then look into a crossover. In either case, don’t forget to ask your insurance agent about the differences between standard liability and full coverage discounts on both types of vehicles! These can save you thousands of dollars throughout your life!