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SUVs vs SUVs: differences and recommended uses

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By now, when SUVs are practically ubiquitous, there should no longer be any doubts about their nature. However, for the laggards or, simply to clarify things, we are going to analyze the differences between SUVs and SUVs.

For this, the first thing is to notice that, indeed, there are similarities between them, especially for the inexperienced eye.

Both of them are models that are larger than usual among passenger cars, especially because they are taller than these, largely because they enjoy greater ground clearance. They also present a more imposing appearance, derived mainly from the extra height they enjoy.

However, already from the aesthetic level (although it is not the most important) differences can be appreciated, since SUVs tend to have a rougher image and, often, have exterior elements that have a more functional than aesthetic use, such as be additional bumper bars, side steps, auxiliary headlights, off-road tires, etc.

Despite this, for the “pagans” it is possible that at first sight an SUV passes for a real 4×4, something that does not happen if we go into technical details.

The first difference between both groups is the traction system. SUVs can be 4×4 at times, but most use a front-wheel drive system. This is unthinkable in SUVs, which use all-wheel drive systems that also often have a reduction gear and differential locks.

Also, although both have more ground clearance than a normal car, in SUVs the improvement is less than in SUVs, which have even more room.

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Added to this is the fact that a 4×4 usually has better off-road angles. The ground clearance, combined with front and rear overhangs that tend to be short, mean that its angle of attack, departure and breakover are greater than in a conventional SUV.

Another aspect that points in the same direction are the suspensions. In an SUV, the usual thing is that they have more travel than in an SUV, which gives them greater versatility when it comes to overcoming obstacles.

Another technical element that separates one from the other is the chassis. In SUVs, it is normal for it to be “ladder”, that is, made up of stringers and crossbars, which is more resistant and capable off-road; while in SUVs it is usually of the monocoque type.

Very different off-road capabilities

All of the above means that the differences when going off the track are notable between them.

All SUVs can leave the asphalt, but the guarantees with which they do so are very diverse, with small 4×2 drive models quite limited in this regard and only the larger ones, with all-wheel drive and specific driving modes, being able to face tracks that present a worse state or even small obstacles.

However, its off-road capacity is light years away from what a true SUV like the fireproof Mercedes G-Class or the small Suzuki Jimny offers.

Due to all the elements and systems available to them, the best representatives of the segment can climb steep slopes, descend automatically and with great control even over the worst embankments, are capable of crossing bridges, can even ford quite deep, etc.

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