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Over the last few decades, SUVs (sport utility vehicles) have become the ride of choice for many drivers. They became so popular that many people didn’t even realize when CUVs, or crossover utility vehicles, started to become the standard SUV on the road. The two are so similar you might actually be driving a crossover and not even know it. The guide below will explain their differences, so you can tell them apart going forward.

SUVs

An SUV uses the chassis of a truck, meaning the body is built separately from the frame and the two are pieced together in the end. This gives the vehicle an added ruggedness and durability. In the early days of sport-utility vehicles, they were practically enclosed pickup trucks, but today’s models are focused more on performance and comfort. However, many— including the Jeep® Wrangler and Chevrolet® Tahoe—are still designed with rear drive, with an option for four-wheel-drive systems, and low-range gearing to handle wet or snowy environments and tackle the occasional off-road adventure. V8 engines are also common in the large, full-sized models for intense hauling and towing capabilities. 

Crossovers

suvsCrossovers are similar to the design of a car in that the body and frame are one piece. This is known as a unibody, and it is more common than people know. Many vehicles drivers refer to as SUVs, like Jeep Cherokees and Ford® Explorers, are crossovers. They have a lower body height than traditional SUVs, are easier to handle, and provide a smoother ride. They also come equipped with front-wheel-drive systems and, in some cases, all-wheel drive. This placement means crossovers are lighter than their SUV counterparts and don’t have to deliver fuel from the front to the back of the vehicle, making them much more fuel efficient. Front-wheel drive also allows crossovers to pull from the front when going around curves, so they don’t have the same problem of losing traction and “fishtailing” like rear-wheel-drive systems. They do, however, tend to experience torque steer during heavy acceleration, which can make them pull to one side or the other. 


Whether you want a vehicle capable of off-roading and heavy workloads or one that can comfortably get your family where they need to go each day, stop by Hurley Dodge in Hardin, IL. Their lot is filled with the latest SUV and crossover models as well as many other brands of new and used cars and trucks. Visit their website to view their current online inventory. You can also call them at (618) 576-2225 with any questions.

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