What Is an SUV?
An SUV is a type of car that combines passenger comfort with a higher driving position and increased practicality.
They are typically larger than hatchbacks, sit higher off the ground, and offer more interior space. They’ve become one of the most popular types of cars in the UK thanks to their versatility and comfort. Sales of SUVs stood increased 23% between 2022 and 2023, exceeding over 1.1 million sales.
At LeaseCar, SUVs are a common choice for drivers who want a practical, spacious car that works for everyday use as well as longer journeys.
Key takeways
SUV stands for Sport Utility Vehicle
SUVs sit higher off the ground than most cars
They usually offer more space and a higher driving position
Not all SUVs are 4x4
SUVs are popular with families and long-distance drivers
What does SUV stand for?
SUV stands for Sport Utility Vehicle. Originally, the term referred to vehicles that could handle both:
Everyday road driving
Rough or off-road conditions
Today, most SUVs are designed mainly for on-road comfort and practicality, rather than serious off-roading.
What makes a car an SUV?
There isn’t one exact definition, but most SUVs share these features:
A higher ride height than standard cars
A more upright driving position
Larger body size and increased interior space
A larger boot compared to smaller cars
Optional four-wheel drive (4x4 or AWD) on some models
Modern SUVs are designed to feel like a mix between a traditional, easy-to-drive car and and larger utility vehicle (with more space and presence).
In comparison with other body styles:
Higher driving position
More interior space
Easier to get into and out of
Often preferred by families
Smaller and easier to park
Usually cheap[er to run
Better for city driving
Lower and more streamlined
Often more comfortable on motorways
Have a more refined feel
In simple terms, hatchbacks offer simplicity and efficiency, saloons provide comfort and refinement, and SUVs offer space, height and versatility.
Added to his are compact SUVs (smaller than standard, but with the typical SUV features), crossover SUVs (SUV body style based on an existing car chassis), and hybrid and electric SUVs that are cheaper to run.
If you’re unsure about which SUV is right for you, you can read our guide on the 11 best SUVs to help you or browse our current range.
Are all SUVs a 4x4?
No — and this is a common misunderstanding.
Some SUVs have four-wheel drive (4x4 or AWD) — better for poor weather or rough terrain. But many modern SUVs are two-wheel drive (2WD) — designed mainly for road use.
For most UK drivers, a two-wheel drive SUV is more than enough.
What does an SUV car look like?
As described above, there isn’t just one type of SUV. This type now includes compact, mid-size, large 7-seater and crossover variants. No wonder it's become so popular in the UK.
Different examples of SUVs
It’s thought that the 1984 Jeep Cherokee was the first official modern SUV.
You can see from the image how high the suspension is, making it perfect for rough roads and rocky terrain.
Other typical, standard SUVs with four-wheel drive include the Skoda Kodiaq, the Land Rover Discovery and the Jaguar F-Pace. The Land Rover Discovery is pictured below.
A good example of a crossover SUV is the Nissan Rogue (pictured below). It’s an all-wheel drive, though this is optional and the car comes with two-wheel drive as standard. It’s the perfect example of combining the luxury of a passenger car with the capabilities of an SUV, as it comes with heated seats and a heated steering wheel.
The Renault Captur is an excellent example of a compact SUV. As with the Rogue, the Captur comes with all the mod cons, and is available as a petrol, diesel or hybrid.
