It is difficult for many people to determine the major differences between SUVs and crossovers because they may seem like the same. The one aspect that can distinguish the two is the performance and drivetrains.
Crossovers
Smaller Capacity Engines
One of the major differences between SUVs and crossovers is that crossovers come with engines that are less powerful than SUVs. They usually come with 4- or 6-cylinder engines. These enable easy everyday driving although they are powerful. However, they fall short when compared to an SUV. In terms of performance, crossovers are similar to sedans.
Front-wheel-drive Systems
Crossovers usually come with the front-wheel-drive or FWD. In front-wheel-drive systems, the engine power is directed towards the front wheels of your vehicle. This means that it is your vehicle’s front wheels that are getting the power and not the back wheels of the vehicle. This is in contrast with the RWD that is available in SUVs.
Benefits of Front-wheel-drive Systems
Downsides of Front-wheel-drive Systems
SUVs
Larger Capacity Engines
Larger capacity engines are available in SUVs because these are made to ensure off-road driving is smoother. SUVs are similar to pickup trucks which is why they have high torque numbers and horsepower. SUVs are suitable when you are looking for a vehicle with an ability to tow. The ride won’t be as smooth when compared to a crossover.
Rear-wheel-drive Systems
SUVs come with rear-wheel-drive systems, and this is one of the major differences between SUVs and crossovers. A rear-wheel-drive system is the opposite of a front-wheel-drive system, and so in this, the power is directed to your vehicle’s rear wheels. In this case, the front wheels are not powered up and so they can be used to maneuver the vehicle.
Benefits of Rear-wheel-drive Systems
Downsides of Rear-wheel-drive Systems
Both crossovers and SUVs can have an all-wheel-drive system or a 4WD option instead although you will need to pay extra for that.