What Is A Crossover?

What Is a Crossover SUV?

Crossover SUVs have taken the automotive world by storm over the past couple decades. What exactly is a crossover SUV and how does it differ from a traditional sport utility vehicle? Here at Grand Valley Auto Grand Junction we have a large selection of Crossover SUVs for you to explore. We can also help you understand this immensely popular vehicle category.

Crossover SUVs Vs Traditional SUVs

The main distinction between a crossover SUV and a traditional SUV lies in how they are constructed. While traditional SUVs use a body-on-frame design similar to a truck, crossovers employ a unibody architecture like a car. This gives crossovers a more comfortable ride, improved handling, and better fuel efficiency compared to truck-based SUVs.

Crossovers have been rapidly gaining market share from SUVs, with many buyers in Fruita preferring their car-like driving dynamics and practical utility. In fact, you've probably noticed an increasing number of crossovers on the roads in recent years as more people discover their appealing blend of traits.

History

While some early crossover-like vehicles existed in the 1970s and 80s, the modern crossover as we know it today really emerged and hit its stride in the mid-1990s with pioneering models like the Toyota RAV4 and 1997 Honda CR-V. These car-based utility vehicles resonated with consumers and kicked off a crossover craze that continues to accelerate.

Buyers in Clifton and across the country have been drawn to crossovers for their just-right balance of passenger and cargo space, fuel economy, affordability and all-weather confidence. Today, most automakers offer multiple crossover models to meet the diverse needs and preferences of the market.

Popular Brands of Crossover SUVS

Crossover SUVs are made by almost every car manufacturer out there. Popular brands include, but are not limited to:

  • Audi Q5
  • BMW X3
  • Toyota RAV4
  • Subaru Forester
  • 2020 Honda CR-V
  • Mazda CX-5
  • Kia Soul
  • 2020 Honda Pilot
  • Hyundai Palisade
  • Chevrolet Trax
  • Jeep® Cherokee
  • Hyundai Tucson
  • Nissan Rogue
  • Volkswagen Tiguan
  • Kia Sportage
  • GMC Terrain

Characteristics of Crossover SUVs

While there is diversity within the category, crossover SUVs tend to share some common characteristics:

  • Unibody construction
  • Available all-wheel drive (though front-wheel drive is common)
  • Raised ride height compared to a car
  • Flexible passenger and cargo configurations
  • Fuel efficiency on par with a sedan
  • Car-like ride and handling

This combination of attributes makes crossovers an appealing choice as a versatile daily driver. They provide a commanding view of the road and flexible utility without the bulky nature of a traditional SUV.

Crossover Size Categories

Crossovers are commonly grouped into size categories, with some variation in terminology:

  • Subcompact crossovers
  • Compact crossovers
  • Midsize crossovers (sometimes split into smaller and larger models)
  • Full-size crossovers

Compact models like the Toyota RAV4 are among the most popular, since they are not too big on the outside but still offer space inside. Still, the other sizes offer their own advantages. Subcompact crossovers are more agile and affordable, while midsize and full-size models provide significantly more passenger and cargo room.

Explore Crossover SUVs at Grand Valley Auto Grand Junction

If you're in the market for a crossover SUV in the Grand Junction area, we invite you to explore our inventory at Grand Valley Auto Grand Junction. Our dealership is located in Grand Junction, and we have a wide range of used crossovers to meet your needs and budget. Our inventory changes frequently, but you can frequently find crossover SUVs from different manufacturers such as:

  • BMW
  • Audi
  • Acura
  • Buick
  • Chevrolet
  • Hyundai
  • Toyota
  • Jeep
  • Ford
  • Mercedes-Benz
  • Nissan
  • Subaru
  • Mitsubishi
  • Mazda
  • Volkswagen
  • Volvo
  • Porsche
  • Hyundai
  • INFINITI
  • Lincoln
  • Plus more to come

We also offer financing for your next used car, truck or SUV here at our finance center. Visit us today.

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