The ultimate SUV buying guide
We all know what SUVs are. But did you know SUVs can be divided into 13 sub-categories that range from X-Small to Super Luxury and Electric SUV? Let’s check them out.
X-Small SUV
These subcompact SUVs are mostly high-riding hatchbacks. They’re practical, comfortable, but cramped.
Small SUV
These SUVs have replaced compact and midsize sedans. These compact crossovers feel more SUV than hatch. They have generous cargo space and lots of room for passengers.
Small 3-Row SUV
These are compact SUVs with three rows of seats. Some passenger comfort is compromised for a couple of seats that don’t get used.
Midsize SUV
The best parts of compact SUVs with more cargo and passenger space. More engine power, more towing capacity, and more off-road ability too.
Midsize 3-Row SUV
Same as the midsize, but with family-focused three rows. It’s for those who won’t get a minivan. They’re powerful, comfortable, feature-packed, and easy to drive.
Large SUV
This is the traditional, brutish, powerful SUV with excellent towing capabilities, massive interiors, and go-anywhere ability. Their truck-like platforms, however, make them cumbersome to drive.
X-Small Luxury SUV
These X-Small SUVs are packed with fancy materials, infotainment systems, advanced driver aids, and powerful engines to justify their high price tag. A fancy badge helps too.
Small Luxury SUV
These are small SUVs packed with long lists of luxury equipment, comfortable cabins, powerful engines, and advanced technology.
Midsize Luxury SUV
Refinement, exquisite cabin quality, cutting-edge technology, and serious horsepower are hallmarks of this segment. It’s packed with options too.
Midsize 3-Row Luxury SUV
These powerful, luxurious SUVs are focused on comfort, pampering, and tech instead of mad power. The third row is comfortable here.
Large Luxury SUV
These are old-school SUVs in nice clothes. Check these out if bold styling, all the usual truck capabilities combined with exclusive luxury trimmings and powerful engines are your thing.
Super Luxury SUV
Incredibly soft leathers, exotic wood inlays, crystal accents combine with V8 or V12 engines, and impressive off-road abilities. These are SUVs from the most coveted automakers.
Electric SUV
These are small or midsize SUVs powered by batteries. They’re practical, look sharp, and offer a serious cool factor. They’re super quiet, comfortable, and several of them can be ludicrously fast.