Anyone who knows anything about cars will have heard the term SUV and its alternative phrase 4x4. You probably already have some familiarity with their purpose and their general appearance.
But what is the meaning of SUV anyway? What specific characteristics must a car have to be called an SUV rather than a different type of car like, say, an MPV? This guide explains what SUV stands for.
What does SUV mean in cars?
SUV stands for ‘sport utility vehicle’ and is a term traditionally used for cars classified as a light truck but utilised as a family vehicle. Some manufacturers have alternatively used the term SUV to stand for ‘suburban utility vehicle’, but this term is very rare nowadays and using it stand for sport utility vehicle is much more common.
SUVs have a long and tall body shape similar to family estate cars, but in comparison to those their ride height will be much higher. SUVs also usually have chunky body panels and underbody protection for the exterior and utilise four-wheel drive. The powertrain, tyres, internal components and likely some driving features will be designed in a way to benefit off-road driving capabilities.
Some other terms exist which relate to cars which share some design elements with traditional SUVs, but are more focused on being used purely for driving on the road. The term ‘crossover’ has become popular to describe such cars.
Some motorists and manufacturer may describe a car as purely a crossover or say crossover SUV to emphasise that the car’s design does indeed take inspiration from traditional off-roaders.
What is the difference between SUV and MPV?
While SUVs do have spacious cabins that can seat between five or more people, as is the case with MPVs, SUVs are quite simply very different to MPVs in certain aspects.
While SUVs tend to have an estate-like shape, MPVs tend to have a boxier profile, lower ride height and use less chunky body panels. SUVs are also designed better for off-road driving.
Certain MPVs on the new car market are designed with a stockier body, taller ride height and even some low-grip driving aids to make them more like SUVs. Such MPVs, however, are only really expected to excel during light off-roading or when driving on a road covered in substances like ice, snow, mud etc.
Which is the best SUV?
For insight into what is the best SUV for you to buy, you can check out our guide on the best SUVs available in the new car market right now.