Why Do SUVs Cost More Than Other Cars (Explained)

Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs) have surpassed all other inventory items in popularity for many manufacturers.

Given how much you can accomplish with these adaptable vehicles, it’s hardly surprising that they are so popular.

However, considering their weight and large body parts, SUVs are majorly expensive to maintain or replace.

Read along as we list some other reasons SUVs cost more than other vehicles.

1. Larger Sizes and Engines

The size of an SUV is the first factor that affects its price.

The term “SUV” which stands for sports utility vehicle, denotes an off-road vehicle that will probably be quite huge.

It requires a strong engine to move that size. It should go without saying that a vehicle with this much investment will have a ton of features, be comfortable, and be able to travel off-road. 

Furthermore, an SUV is unique among vehicles because of its configuration. It is designed for a massive load capacity and it equally provides additional interior space for drivers and passengers.

A regular car will likely drag and bottom out if it has over five occupants. To move this weight, the engine has to work harder than usual.  

SUVs are designed to haul more weight, which makes them pricier than sedans and smaller cars.

2. Advanced Safety Features

SUVs are among the safest vehicles on the road, given their size. They have typically achieved excellent scores in the precise crash tests carried out by Euro NCAP.

SUVs have more structural integrity and are better suited to withstand the impact of a crash than smaller cars because of their size, which reduces the chance of injury for all occupants.

Additionally, The European Transport Safety Council has praised SUVs for their excellent and outstanding safety record. They’re not just good at crashes, they excel at avoiding them as well.

Modern SUVs usually come equipped with a range of driver-aid technologies and assistance features that can alert the driver and even take autonomous actions to prevent crashes. This reduces the risk of accidents just in the nick of time.

Lastly, accidents are less likely to result in fatalities because SUVs have stronger body parts. Thus, more body protection is provided by an SUV than by any other vehicle. 

These excellent safety stats don’t come cheap. Many of the driver assistance features and design choices that make SUVs safer also make them more expensive.

Please also read our article about reasons SUVs are safer than sedans and minivans.

3. Improved Fuel Efficiency

New automobiles continuously offer more impressive fuel efficiency ratings because automakers have improved their understanding of how SUVs work.

This increased efficiency allows modern SUVs to be more suited for daily commutes than for only off-roading. 

Internal combustion engines have also reduced running costs, but it might surprise many people to learn that many modern SUVs now come equipped with hybrid and all-electric powertrains that can maximize how far a tank of gas or a battery recharge can go per mile.

There are still several high-powered SUVs that favor performance over efficiency, but for most parts, SUVs have become more environmentally friendly than ever and they make for the perfect family car.

Carmakers invest billions of dollars in developing more efficient, high-performing and long-lasting engines. They transfer some of that bill to their customers in the form of higher car prices.

4. Exceptional Towing Capabilities 

It’s not surprising to see SUVs pulling RVs and trailers. Towing requires powerful engines, stronger drivetrains and beefy suspension systems, all of which cost money. 

Many SUVs, especially the mid-size and full-size variants, can carry large cargo and even tow them if necessary, especially in the summer when many people choose to take a vacation. 

SUVs have larger, more powerful engines than their smaller counterparts, which gives them more towing ability. You may also see this pattern within the SUV class.

A larger SUV provides more comfort when towing heavier loads than a smaller crossover SUV. It’s always a good idea to research a car’s towing capacity before making a final decision.

The tow bar can be equipped with bike racks as well. You can transport many bicycles or other items for a fun family day.

5. Improved Off-roading Capabilities

The word “power” is an understatement when describing an SUV.

An SUV will definitely do the trick if you intend to frequently go on thrilling off-roading excursions across difficult terrains. 

The majority of SUVs come with three differentials. The front, back, and middle and they check to see that each wheel is firmly planted.

Additionally, this is one of the main safety reasons many people buy SUVs over other cars; due to their ability to strong ability to handle bad road conditions.

6. More Interior Space

Due to the large interior, SUVs make it relatively easy for the people inside not to feel the outside noise. It is convenient for long trips, travels, and trips with children.

In SUVs, it is easier to carry large loads that do not fit into the other cars due to the spacious trunks.

You will have more than enough room in the rear of an SUV to transport all of your belongings.

Even better, there is far more room for storage both in the cabin and the trunk, which is generally larger than that of a sedan or a passenger car.

Should you require more storage capacity in an SUV, you can add to it. Most SUVs are easily adaptable to load carriers, roof racks, and even bike racks. You will always be prepared and ready for your next big journey in this way.

Some midsize SUVs also offer 5+2 seating with “occasional” third-row seats that can accommodate seven passengers. Many of the largest SUVs and people movers have room for up to seven or eight passengers. Although the legroom in the back is typically inadequate and confined for adults, these are frequently perfect for older children.

For more information, read our article where we answer whether SUVs have more room than sedans.

7. Excellent Durability

SUVs are designed to endure through inevitable difficult patches. They can carry more and handle problems better because they are built on a larger, stronger frame.

Being utility vehicles, they are built to offer much functionality for consumers. Every technical advancement has improved over the years and they continue to provide the same dependability.

They are designed to withstand increased wear and tear over time without degrading the interior or the vehicle’s performance.

SUVs are safer with the newest technology advancements and safety features like ADAS, ESC, and airbags. SUVs are built rigidly, and the traditional frame adds more stability.

Compared to other cars, SUVs frequently feature stronger and better suspension. This provides them a durability advantage over other vehicles because they can handle shock better. 

In addition, maintaining adequate wheel alignment and handling often comes with good suspension. A raised suspension minimizes bottom drag and your vehicle’s undercarriage has a longer lifespan this way.

A strong and rigid suspension will hold up better to frequent use and exposure to dirt and dust. 

Make sure to also read our article about reasons SUVs last longer than sedans.

8. Strong Tires

Compared to other regular automobiles, SUV tires are made differently. They are more adaptable and have thread blocks, which facilitate navigating difficult terrain or badly maintained roads.

A standard car’s tires would deteriorate more quickly than an SUV’s if forced to go on poor roads all the time. A sedan’s car’s thread patterns essentially offer smooth rides.

Compared to an SUV, they mostly have lateral grooves that are more swept back. On the other hand, the aggressive tread pattern on SUVs provides superior traction and grip.

The tires are durable, in part, because of these tough tread patterns.

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