What is an SUV Vehicle?

An SUV is larger than a car but smaller than a truck.

The term SUV, or sport-utility vehicle, was coined in 1997, when Ford unveiled its Lincoln Navigator. This camper-style vehicle is far from what is considered an SUV today. Today, SUVs are large vehicles, often equipped with four-wheel drive and an enclosed rear cargo area.

4-Wheel Drive

The major benefit to four-wheel drive is the increased traction, as you have four points of traction pulling the vehicle as opposed to two. This gives you better control over the vehicle when off-roading, which many SUVs are designed for, and driving on paved roads.

Enclosed Rear Cargo Area

SUVs are a popular choice among medium- and large-sized families because they offer an alternative to the mini van. The enclosed rear cargo space is similar, but the SUV offers more rugged styling.

High Ground Clearance

Often built with a chassis designed for a pickup, an SUV offer a higher ground clearance than other vehicles. For off-roading, the vehicle needs to clear uneven ground, so this feature aids in the SUV's multi-purpose appeal.

References

• "High and Mighty: SUVs -- The World's Most Dangerous Vehicles and How They Got That Way"; Keith Bradsher; 2002
• "Four Wheel Drive Handbook"; James T. Crow and Cameron A. Warren; 1976