A Guide to SUVs

A Guide to SUVs

Thinking about an SUV for your daily travels? Learn all you need to know in our guide, from the types of SUVs available to choosing the right one for you.

SUVs are a popular choice with many UK drivers. From families and off-road enthusiasts to budget-minded buyers. But, with so many options on the market, it can be difficult to know which one to go for.

In this guide to SUVs, we’ll cover everything you need to know to help you find the right SUV for your lifestyle. From the benefits of owning an SUV to the best family SUVs on the market today, we’ve got you covered!

What types of SUVs are available?

Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs) are known for their muscular stance, larger than saloons and hatchbacks.

They provide great interior space and can adapt to all landscapes. Transporting you through the city with ease whilst tackling the hardest terrains like a pro.

When it comes to SUVs, there are a few different types available, including:

• Subcompact SUVs –the smallest kinds of SUV.
• Compact SUVs – larger than subcompact SUVs, but smaller than a midsize one.
• Mid-size SUVs – somewhere in between a compact SUV and a full-sized SUV.
• Crossover SUVs – combining hatchback function with SUV styling.
• Electric SUVs – powered solely by electricity, as their name suggests.
• Hybrid SUVs – powered by a combination of petrol or diesel fuel and electric power.

What are the benefits of an SUV?

SUVs are ideal cars for all types of drivers, providing plenty of boot space and cabin room to fit in all your passengers and luggage.

Originally, SUVs were bulky, rugged vehicles. However, over the years, designers have refined their style, and they now come in a range of shapes and sizes to suit all needs.

For instance, the Peugeot 3008 is a great compact SUV that doesn’t look out of place in the city. Whereas the  Skoda Kodiaq  boasts  seven seats for families to transport everyone to new destinations.

Many SUVs also feature all-wheel drive, making them great for outdoor adventures. Some of the other benefits of SUVs include:

• Improved safety thanks to rigorous Euro NCAP testing and driver assistance systems.
• Better fuel economy with more efficient hybrid and all-electric powertrains on offer.
• Greater handling and control on the road thanks to robust design.
• Better towing capabilities for towing caravans and trailers.

Fuel efficiency will vary depending on the specific powertrain you choose with your SUV. For instance, electric and hybrid SUVs offer greater fuel efficiency with their increased reliance on electric power.

They also produce zero emissions and are much kinder to the environment. However, they can often be more expensive to purchase outright than a petrol or diesel SUV. If you’re looking for a balance of fuel efficiency and eco efficiency, then an electric or hybrid SUV is the way to go.

What are the features and options with SUVs?

SUVs tend to share a few main characteristics that make them great for everyday driving. Such as:

A higher driving position

Unlike hatchback or estate models, SUVs tend to sit higher off the ground. This also raises the driving position, giving you a better view in front of you.

Storage space

Due to their larger size, SUVs offer more storage space throughout the cabin for both driver and passenger convenience.

Rugged styling

Many SUVs often combine generous proportions with a sporty, athletic design. Meaning they’re sure to be noticed on the road!

Higher boot volume

Since SUVs can accommodate more passengers and are used for longer journeys, they tend to offer more boot space for luggage.

As with many other cars, the options available with SUVs will be plenty. Depending on your needs, you can add mud flaps, bike racks, roof boxes, tow bars, and more.

For the interior, options available may include seat covers, pet carriers, storage trays, and so on.

Things to consider when buying an SUV

If you’re wondering ‘What SUV should I buy?’, then the answer is both simple and complex. This all depends on your preferences.

There are a few key things you’ll want to consider to determine which is right for you. For instance, which manufacturer are you looking for? Are you wanting a new or used hatchback? How much do you want to spend?

There’s a lot to think about before making your decision. The SUV market is vast and there are models from a whole range of car manufacturers. Each offering different specifications, designs, and performance abilities.

To make it easier for you, let’s look at some of the best SUVs on the market, all of which cater to a range of different needs. Whether it’s the best family SUV, or a great company car you’re after.

Popular SUV models and brands

Nissan X-Trail

Designed for adventure, the Nissan X-Trail is a flexible family SUV. Available as a five or seven-seater, it’s packed with technology to enhance every journey. Including Nissan’s innovative e-POWER hybrid powertrain.

Browse new Nissan X-Trail deals

Hyundai Tucson

Stylish and sophisticated, the Hyundai Tucson was made to stand out. It offers cutting-edge SUV style, plus a range of electrified powertrains like mild hybrid, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid. The perfect flexible SUV for families.

Browse new Hyundai Tucson deals

Skoda Kodiaq

Spacious and accommodating, the Skoda Kodiaq also offers the perfect family set-up. It’s available as a five or seven-seater SUV and features a range of advanced technology as standard.

Browse new Skoda Kodiaq deals

SEAT Tarraco

A large SUV designed with space and comfort in mind, the SEAT Tarraco comes with seven seats as standard. Plus, generous load space and the latest driving technology.

Browse new SEAT Tarraco deals

Ford Kuga

Perfect for families, the Ford Kuga is spacious and stylish, and comes in a range of powertrains, including hybrid. Allowing you to choose the way you want to drive.

Browse new Ford Kuga deals

Mazda CX-5

Where luxurious design meets high performance, the Mazda CX-5 is an SUV made to go further. The spacious family car offers innovative hybrid technology for maximum efficiency. Plus, a range of advanced safety technologies for a smoother drive.

Browse new Mazda CX-5 deals

Peugeot 3008

Alluring SUV style. Flexible powertrain options. These are the things that make the Peugeot 3008 a great family SUV. Not to mention a range of the latest technology as standard.

Browse new Peugeot 3008 deals

Vauxhall Grandland

The Vauxhall Grandland is an SUV you can rely on. Jam-packed with essential safety systems and featuring plenty of luggage and cabin space, the Grandland is a great family SUV.

Browse new Vauxhall Grandland deals

Citroen C5 Aircross

Confident and capable, the Citroen C5 Aircross is an SUV that’s built for the open road. Its comfortable, welcoming interior makes it perfect for family road trips. Plus, it’s available with petrol, diesel, hybrid or plug-in hybrid options.

Browse new Citroen C5 Aircross deals

SUV maintenance and ownership

By and large, maintenance for most cars is generally the same – regardless of body style. This means that maintenance for SUVs will not differ greatly from other types of cars, with the only exception being electric SUVs.

Electric cars contain fewer moving parts and are therefore simpler to maintain. The only area that will require specialist attention is the battery to determine the health of the lithium-ion cells. This normally involves the use of analytics equipment.

As for ownership, it’s believed that SUVs are slightly more expensive to run than traditional estate cars. This is because they have much larger engines, and where these are petrol or diesel they may be more expensive to maintain.

With electric and hybrid SUVs however, you can often enjoy lower running costs. When driving in electric mode, you can save on fuel costs with hybrid models, meaning fewer trips to the pump. Plus, you’ll also see a decrease in your road tax bills, which can help you save money each year.

SUV comparison and buying guide

Wondering which SUV is best for you based on your budget? We’ve compared some of the top SUVs ranging from £21,000-£40,000 at Bristol Street Motors to help you decide:

Ultimately, prices will depend on the particular specification you choose with your vehicle. For instance, any additional factors like the number of seats or increased cargo space. Or optional extras such as sunroofs and towing packs. Running costs will then depend on how you drive your SUV and the driving conditions.

Get in touch with our friendly team today for more information.

Future trends in SUVs

The SUV segment remains the largest among UK vehicle sales, with 450,676 vehicles sold last year according to Statistica.

As the electric car market continues to expand, we’ll be seeing more electric SUVs enter showrooms, promising a longer range.

Plus, with car manufacturers ever seeking to address the demands of modern motorists, they will also continue to grow in size.

Browse new or used SUVs at Bristol Street Motors

Set on a new SUV for your daily adventures? At Bristol Street Motors, we offer a range of new and used cars for sale. Including SUVs!

Whether you’re looking for the best family SUV, the most fuel-efficient SUV, or the best SUV for towing a trailer. You’re sure to find plenty of choice. We offer a range of shapes and sizes to suit all needs, including seven-seater SUVs, with a range of powertrain options like electric and hybrid.

Choose from the latest models from top manufacturers with a range of specifications and powertrains on offer.

Not sure what you’re looking for? Contact our friendly sales team or book an appointment at your local Bristol Street Motors dealership. We love to help each and every customer find their perfect car!

Shop new SUVs for sale

Related articles:

10 Best Family SUVs for Cargo and Vacations

Five of the Best Seven-Seater Cars

Ford Puma vs Ford Kuga SUV Comparison: Choosing The Right Used SUV

Searching for an SUV? Meet the Vauxhall Mokka, Grandland, and Crossland

Choosing The Right PEUGEOT SUV For You

Introducing the Skoda SUV Range

Meet the New Seven-Seater SUV from Mazda: The All-New Mazda CX-80

Meet PEUGEOT's Electric Seven-Seater SUV - The New E-5008