Home Locks What is called a SUV. What is a parquet SUV. A few helpful tips to help you find the perfect crossover model for you

What is called a SUV. What is a parquet SUV. A few helpful tips to help you find the perfect crossover model for you

The current level of car production, if not at its peak, is confidently approaching it. The number of classes and categories has increased significantly. There has never been such a variety as it is now in the history of the auto industry.

Car companies actively compete with each other, trying to prove to potential consumers that they can offer the safest, most reliable, functional or comfortable vehicles. Due to the wide list of proposals, it is not always possible to navigate.

Concepts such as crossover, SUV and SUV entered the everyday life of motorists. But not everyone knows what this or the word means, what real meaning is put into them. There are those who are quite sure that these are just synonyms, and there is no difference between modern crossovers, SUVs and SUVs. This is not true, since under each of these concepts is a car with certain parameters, characteristics and operational capabilities.

Basic definitions of concepts

First you need to decide what a crossover and an urban SUV are. It is impossible to designate each of these types of vehicles as a passenger car. It is correct to refer to passenger cars as hatchbacks, sedans, station wagons and liftbacks, as well as all kinds of coupes, convertibles, etc.

  • The SUV is positioned as a fairly broad concept, since it covers a number of vehicles with increased cross-country ability. These are vehicles designed for off-road use and special difficult tracks. They are distinguished by the presence of a frame structure of the suspension, a reduced range of gears, interwheel and inter-axle blocking, and a solid suspension structure. SUVs can overcome serious obstacles, easily tow other cars, easily conquer off-road terrain. But it is impossible to combine these advantages with economy in practice. Current developments still do not allow SUVs to be as easy to drive and maneuverable as passenger cars. Such cars are also spacious inside, but there is no high level of comfort. These are workhorses designed specifically for tough operating conditions.
  • Crossovers combine the strengths of passenger cars and SUVs with decent flotation and a high level of comfort. The strengths of crossovers include cross-country ability, a sportier appearance and the frequent presence of a permanent and connected all-wheel drive system. Crossovers are easy to control, they are quite maneuverable, equipped with powerful internal combustion engines. But they cannot cope with serious off-road conditions, unlike an SUV. The main field of application is asphalt roads, with the ability to drive onto the ground if necessary.

  • SUVs are also called sports cars. This is a much lighter version. They cannot cope with difficult obstacles. According to their characteristics, they are more reminiscent of passenger cars. SUVs are universal, they can perform many tasks that are not available for a sedan, hatchback or station wagon. This is the transportation of goods, a large number of passengers, towing a trailer, driving on light off-road. In urban SUVs, a monocoque body is used, while in crossovers it is frame and more rigid. In the case of SUVs, the emphasis is on efficiency and comfort, sacrificing cross-country ability. Such cars have a fairly high ground clearance (ground clearance) against the background of passenger cars, and controllability and comfort are often higher than that of crossovers. In terms of price, they are cheaper than the two competitors presented earlier.

Having roughly understood what an SUV, an SUV and a crossover are, you can take a closer look at the main differences between them. If the SUV is more of a passenger car, then the current crossovers and classic SUVs should be classified as a separate vehicle category.

What is the difference in technical terms

For a more accurate understanding of how crossovers differ from SUVs and SUVs, it is worth looking at the technical aspects of these vehicles.

The main focus is on:

  • wheels;
  • transmissions;
  • body;
  • suspension;
  • patency.

Each item requires separate consideration.

Body

The search for differences between crossovers and SUVs and SUVs is most logical to start with body features and characteristics.

  • Crossover. Previously, frame structures were more common, but in recent years, manufacturers are actively switching to a load-bearing body type. It is lightweight, easy to maintain, and requires minimal resources to recover. Standard ground clearance (clearance) is from 200 to 250 mm. But there are models with lower ground clearance, which suffers from cross-country ability.
  • SUV. Such a car is usually based on a platform or station wagon. Less commonly, it is a hatchback. The body of SUVs is load-bearing, but the structure in many respects resembles the design of passenger cars. Has increased by 30-50 mm. clearance in comparison with cars, but it still does not give a lot of cross-country ability. But such a body provides an excellent level of comfort and maneuverability. The body often only outwardly resembles an SUV, which is achieved by design solutions.
  • SUV. The body has a rigid frame that can handle increased loads. Although many refuse from the classic frame body. To compensate for the stiffness, auxiliary structural elements are used. SUVs are conventionally divided into models with a frame monocoque body. A comparative innovation in recent years has been the integrated frame, which combines the features of a frame and monocoque body.

In many respects, the balance between rigidity, reliability and comfort depends on the body. Everyone chooses what matters most to him.

Wheels and chassis

The chassis on crossovers is similar to that used on SUVs, with a number of differences. What they have in common is their simplicity of design and increased travel. The front suspension is independent, and the rear is dependent or semi-dependent.

The chassis on SUVs is closer to crossovers, but has a lot in common with passenger cars. Here reinforced chassis components are used, a number of solutions are used that provide an opportunity for. Many SUVs have an adaptive suspension and a function for changing the level of stiffness of shock absorbers.

The chassis of SUVs is usually partially or completely dependent. This does not allow achieving a solid level of comfort, but the reliability is the highest among conventional competitors. The structure has a large margin of safety, which allows you to pass through extremely difficult areas. The undercarriage has a long travel, and this contributes to better wheel grip, even when moving on the ground and difficult off-road conditions.

To understand what is the difference between cars such as a crossover, an SUV and an urban SUV, it is worth looking at the wheels.

In SUVs and crossovers, low-profile standard tires are most often used. The size is average, like that of a passenger car. The large dimensions of the SUV and the peculiarities of their operating conditions require the use of higher and larger wheels. They should be thicker and more prominent.

Transmission features

You can catch the existing difference between crossovers and SUVs based on the nuances of the suspension design of the types of cars presented.

Nothing There is nothing unusual and supernatural in the transmissions of SUVs compared to the usual passenger cars. These are popular manual and automatic gearboxes, devoid of additional features. Most often, front-wheel drive. But there are configurations in which you can get a plug-in all-wheel drive.

The transmission on off-road vehicles largely determines their cross-country ability. Classic cars of this type use a transmission with a transfer case, which actively distributes torque, increasing its performance on the driving wheels. The transfer case has a downshift. With its help, the torque is increased when the car is in off-road conditions. It also provides a center differential in order to distribute the moment along the axles of the car. If there is a blocking of this differential, the problem of hanging the wheels is solved, when only one of them can rotate. The blocking contributes to the synchronous rotation of all wheels at the same time, even suspended. Blocking can be automatic or mechanical. In the latter case, it is activated by appropriate actions on the part of the driver. The drive is not necessarily full-time. There is also a plug-in four-wheel drive, which contributes to fuel economy when driving on asphalt.

In terms of the transmission used, crossovers are more reminiscent of SUVs, although there are car models equipped with an all-wheel drive system. In most cases, electronic four-wheel drive is used on modern crosses. The control unit monitors possible wheel slippage and, as necessary, connects the rear pair of wheels. But such cars do not provide for the presence of a downshift or transfer case. Many crossovers in basic trim levels are exclusively front-wheel drive.

Suspension

When trying to find the differences between an SUV, SUV and crossover, you should definitely look at the suspension.

In crosses, a multi-link independent design is usually used. This is the optimal solution for ensuring good handling on asphalt roads.

In SUVs, the suspension used is even simpler. Often on such vehicles, you can see a standard torsion beam on the rear axle, while only the front axle remains independent.

For a full-fledged SUV, the dependent suspension, which has a continuous axle, becomes an actual choice. Such a suspension is available with guide levers, or with longitudinal springs. Both options are actively used by car manufacturers. Long travel is a prerequisite for the suspension of an SUV to provide the required degree of reliability and the ability to tackle difficult terrain.

The SUV's suspension, although the strongest, is inferior to conventional competitors in terms of comfort. The handling is also average when it comes to driving on smooth asphalt and city roads. But a significant gain is observed when driving outside the asphalt.

Passability

From all that has been said before, you can easily determine how the crossover or SUV differs from the SUV. The latter has a reinforced suspension and a reliable chassis. The design features make it possible to create a car with an increased level of cross-country ability.

Such cars are usually chosen for long trips outside the city, when you have to overcome not only asphalt sections, but also the ground and go through difficult obstacles. SUVs perform well in the city, although the main field of application is outside the asphalt.

An SUV, which is distinguished by solid reliability and increased cross-country ability of difficult sections, is inferior in terms of comfort and controllability to the crossovers and purely urban SUVs created for the city to a greater extent. With a plug-in four-wheel drive, the cross is able to overcome some sections and obstacles of average difficulty.

If it is a SUV and with a conventional front-wheel drive, you will hardly notice a significant difference in terms of cross-country ability of vehicles compared to conventional cars. Even the increased clearance gives an extremely imaginary advantage, sometimes acting as a way to visually give the SUV the look of an SUV.

Representatives of 3 classes

Among the presented cars, it was SUVs that were the first to appear. Then they began to produce the first samples of modern crossovers, and the last were urban SUVs.

Among the most popular representatives of the class of classic and modern SUVs, the following models are worth highlighting:

  • UAZ Patriot.
  • UAZ Hunter.
  • Toyota Land Cruiser Prado.
  • Toyota Land Cruiser 200.
  • Mitsubishi Pajero.
  • Nissan Patrol.
  • Lexus GX.
  • Jeep Grand Cherokee.
  • Cadillac Escalade.
  • Land Rover Defender.
  • Chevrolet Tahoe etc.

Some will be surprised, but one of the first full-fledged crossovers in the world is the RAV4 model manufactured by Toyota.

Now crossovers occupy a leading position in terms of sales among the 3 classes presented. The following models are most often mentioned:

  • Toyota RAV4.
  • Nissan X-Trail.
  • Toyota Highlander.
  • Mitsubishi Outlander.
  • Syzuki Grand Vitara.
  • Subaru Forester.
  • Nissan Murano.
  • Honda CR-V.
  • Hyundai Tucson.
  • Kia Sportage.
  • BMW X3.
  • BMW X5.
  • Runault Duster.
  • Volkswagen Tiguan.
  • Audi Q5 etc.

Basically, SUVs are enlarged versions of passenger cars of the European B and C class, which received a modified appearance and increased ground clearance. Many of the modern SUVs are in fact slightly modified versions of passenger cars. More often than not, automakers raise ground clearance and add crossover styling to station wagons and hatchbacks.

Popular SUVs include:

  • Renault Sandero Stepway.
  • Hyundai Creta.
  • Lada Largus Cross.
  • Kia Soul.
  • Nissan Qashqai.
  • Nissan Juke.
  • Lada XRay.
  • Peugeot 3008 etc.

Each buyer has his own preferences, so the choice should be made based on personal opinion, desires and requirements for the vehicle.

Who to give preference to

The presented cars are quite different from each other, but usually the buyer does not have any special problems with what is better and which car to give preference to. Both a crossover and an SUV with a SUV have their own audience.

  • SUVs are great for those looking for an off-road vehicle. But if you will mainly move around the city, flat and smooth asphalt, it is inappropriate to take such a vehicle here.
  • Crossovers are characterized by increased cross-country ability, but at the same time offer a high level of interior comfort. They will be able to pass moderate off-road conditions, and when driving on the highway, the driver, like the passengers, will get real pleasure. An excellent option for long-distance and long journeys.
  • SUVs are actually ordinary city cars, which only outwardly slightly resemble SUVs. The slightly increased ground clearance against their background does not give significant advantages, but consumers value such cars for a more solid off-road design.

To choose one of the options presented, you need to assess the expected operating conditions in advance. The financial issue is considered to be no less significant. The difference between SUVs and SUVs can be huge. SUVs are rightly considered the most expensive. They are followed by crosses, and SUVs remain the most affordable.

Increasingly, people prefer crosses, as this is the best compromise between two other vehicles. It is convenient and comfortable to drive around the city on crossovers, having the opportunity to periodically leave the boundaries of asphalt roads.

There is no longer such an obvious line as before between the cars of the 3 classes presented. The comfort of the SUV is increased, the crossover's cross-country ability is increased. If we take into account some of the configurations available on front-wheel-drive SUVs, equipping such a car with a plug-in all-wheel drive system allows them to be transferred to the category of crossovers.

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The type of car is a crossover, it is also a SUV - what kind of car is this?

Almost every well-known automaker is trying to include this type of car in its lineup. However, there is no single definition of what a crossover is. If everything is clear with or sedans, then a variety of types of cars are called a crossover today, it is enough, for example, to compare such models as Skoda Fabia Scout, Renault Sandero Stepway, Nissan Juke - they all belong to this type of car:

  • Scoda Fabia Scout and Renault Sandero Stepway are off-road versions of hatchbacks, so-called pseudo-crossovers;
  • The Nissan Juke is a mini-crossover mounted on the Nissan Micra hatchback platform.

That is, in simple terms, a crossover is a modified version of a hatchback, station wagon or minivan, adapted for driving not only in the city, but also on light off-road.

While you shouldn't confuse a crossover with an SUV, not even an all-wheel-drive crossover will be able to navigate the routes that an SUV can handle without problems.

According to the American classification, crossovers are classified as CUV - Crossover Utility Vehicle, which translates as an off-road vehicle. This is the middle link between SUVs and hatchbacks. There is also a class of SUV cars - Sport Utility Vehicle, which can include both crossovers and SUVs. For example, the best-selling Renault Duster is a compact crossover SUV, and belongs to the SUV class, that is, it can give odds to any urban crossover.

You can delve into various classifications and terms for a long time. It is better to try to point out the main differences between crossovers and SUVs, so that you could easily deal with this issue.

The SUV must have:

  • four-wheel drive, reduction gear, center differential;
  • high ground clearance - at least 200 millimeters;
  • frame structure - the frame supporting system is the main feature of an SUV, and already the body and all the main units are attached to this frame;
  • reinforced suspension, durable shock absorbers adapted for difficult off-road conditions.

You can also call the increased size of the body, but this is not a prerequisite - although the UAZ-Patriot belongs to, while having a relatively modest size. UAZ, Nissan Patrol, Mitsubishi Pajero, American Hummer all-terrain vehicle - these are examples of real off-road vehicles.

Now let's take a look at them

Four-wheel drive is present in some models, while it is not permanent. Crossover - city car and four-wheel drive in the city is not particularly needed. If there is four-wheel drive, then there may be no reduction gear or center differential, that is, the additional axle can be used only for a short period of time.

More than that of hatchbacks, the average value is up to 20 millimeters, with such a clearance, you need to take into account the geometry of the body, and if you can still ride on curbs, then off-road you can very easily "sit on your belly", because the ramp angle is not enough to ride up the slides and take the climbs.

In such cars, not a frame structure is mainly used, but a load-bearing body - that is, the body either performs the function of a frame, or is tightly connected to it. It is clear that such a design is ideal for the city, but on off-road use a frameless frame does not go far.

Reinforced suspension - of course, it is stronger than sedans or hatchbacks, but the short suspension travel is not suitable for off-roading. Among drivers, there is such a concept as diagonal hanging - this is when, when driving on bumps, one wheel can hang in the air. The jeep has enough suspension travel to deal with this situation, but the crossover will have to be pulled with a cable.

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The most famous representatives: Toyota RAV4, Mercedes GLK-class, Volkswagen Tiguan, Mitsubishi Outlander, Nissan Qashqai, Opel Mokka, Skoda Yeti.

They can be divided according to different criteria, but usually they are divided into types depending on their size:

  • mini;
  • compact;
  • mid-size;
  • full-size.

Minis are very common today in cities, because they are ideal for driving along narrow streets, moreover, their cost is not so prohibitive, so many buyers choose them in order to be able to travel on equipped autobahns and from time to time go off-road.

Nissan Juke, Volkswagen Cross Polo, Opel Mokka, Renault Sandero Stepway, Lada Kalina Cross are all striking examples of mini-crossovers.

Chery Tiggo, KIA Sportage, Audi Q3, Subaru Forester, Renault Duster are compact crossovers.

Mercedes M-class, KIA Sorento, VW Touareg - mid-size.

Toyota Highlander, Mazda CX-9 - full-size.

You can also often hear the name "SUV". Front-wheel drive crossovers are usually called SUVs.

Pros and cons

Despite the fact that this type of car only slightly resembles an SUV, they are very popular. How can this be explained? First of all, love for everything powerful. It is not for nothing that the RAV fourth or Nissan Zhuchok are in such demand among women - such cars will undoubtedly stand out among compact hatchbacks and prestigious sedans. And now, when China has come to grips with the production of crossovers, it will be difficult to stop the influx of cheap cars of this category (and no one cares that some Lifan X-60 cannot even drive up a hill that a Chevy-Niva or Duster will take without difficulty ).

The advantages include a spacious interior, the ability to drive through curbs without fear of damaging the bottom. On light off-road, you need to drive carefully, especially in winter, when the roads are covered with snow - you can not calculate the forces and get very deeply bogged down.

The disadvantages of these cars include increased fuel consumption, although if you take mini and compact, they consume about the same as cars of class "B". Well, do not forget that

In the past few years, the number of cars on the roads of the country has increased tenfold, or even hundreds of times. Every day more and more of them are represented by SUVs, SUVs and crossovers. Large, roomy, with an interesting design, glossy and shiny, they are liked by everyone, but not everyone can answer the question, SUV - what is it, and name the differences between a crossover and a SUV or a crossover and an SUV. And you need to know them, because often, due to the ignorance of the inhabitants, manufacturers mislead them, calling them SUVs crossovers, which, not only in mud, but in ordinary ones, are not always able to drive.

Definitions

So, SUV - what is it? It is impossible to give an answer to this question in three words, since attention should be paid to many criteria. The SUV is one of the Japanese brands with extended interior space, outwardly similar to the crossover, but lacking its mechanical characteristics. There is a misconception that SUVs, like crossovers, have increased cross-country ability. However, this is only a delusion. They are designed for driving on regular asphalt or, in extreme cases, on a rolled dry road.

The crossover is a hybrid of an SUV and a premium vehicle. He, like an SUV, has a powerful engine and increased cross-country ability, and as a premium car - a glossy appearance. Accordingly, the crossover's cross-country ability is significantly higher than that of the SUV. It is equipped and able to cope successfully with lightly broken trails. However, it is more of a sports car than an off-road vehicle. A crossover to an SUV is just like walking to Moscow, so it's possible to drive it along a badly bumpy, deformed track or a wet muddy country road strewn with potholes, puddles and ditches, perhaps, but not for a long time. Much more typical crossover "walks" on an asphalt highway with infrequent trips out of town, which is explained by the relatively small margin of safety of its independent suspension.

The SUV is the king of all routes, even those that are not at all worthy of the name "road". Unlike a crossover, an SUV is designed specifically for off-road driving, its components have a huge margin of safety. Off-road vehicles do not always have colossal dimensions, but they are necessarily characterized by high tractive power and cross-country ability.

Differences in terms of mechanics

Judging only by their appearance, then all three categories of cars can be defined as off-road vehicles, but due to how great the difference in their technical equipment, it would be wrong to do this. In order to give the most complete answers to the questions: an SUV - what is it and how the SUV differs from a crossover, you should consider in more detail the differences in their bodies, transmissions and suspensions.

A few words about the body

While crossovers and SUVs have only a load-bearing body unit, SUVs are equipped with a frame structure with all units and assemblies. And, of course, the torsional rigidity of the crossover body is much higher than that of the SUV.

About transmission

A distinctive feature of the transmission of an SUV is the equipment with a low range of gears, allowing to overcome the conditions of bad roads. In addition, machines of this type have bridges that are forcedly connected, or all-wheel drive, a feature of which is

The transmission of crossovers is characterized by greater simplicity: they do not have a number of low gears and a permanent all-wheel drive, it is connected only forcibly in the process of slipping.

The design of the SUV gearbox can be of two types: similar to that installed in a crossover or front-wheel drive, characteristic of an ordinary passenger car.

Suspension features

The SUV has a dependent suspension, which provides an increase in the vehicle's cross-country ability. Its advantage - reliability, disadvantage - the comfort of driving an SUV is significantly inferior to "walking" in a crossover or SUV.

SUVs and crossovers usually have a rear and front. The only difference is that the suspension of the latter is aimed at balancing successful use both off-road and on a regular asphalt road. You can get the most complete answer to the question, SUV - what is it, by making an attempt to drive a car off-road. If the crossover's suspension has a sufficient margin of safety only for traveling on good asphalt or trampled sandy roads, then the SUV will not always go on an asphalt road if it is broken.

About wheels and cross-country ability

The most fundamental differences between SUVs, SUVs and crossovers are expressed in the features of their wheels and geometric cross-country ability.

The SUV is equipped with large wheels (thirty inches in diameter and above) with a high sidewall. And crossovers and SUVs can have the usual low-profile, designed for driving traffic on asphalt.

The wheels of an SUV must be large in diameter (from 30 inches) with a high sidewall. While on crossovers and car SUVs, low-profile tires can be installed for driving on asphalt. The cross-country ability of SUVs has been significantly increased by reducing the overhangs of the stern and front of the car. This allows you to increase the angles of departure and entry during sharp or unexpected descents and ascents. The crossovers and SUVs have a lower cross-country ability, since they are equipped with rather large overhangs. The reason for this is that in the design of cars such as a SUV or a crossover, the main indicator is the aesthetic moment, not the physical one.

Referring to geometric passability, it is important to note that its main definition is the ability to overcome obstacles of varying complexity.

Main representatives

The most prominent representatives of SUVs are Jeep Wrangler, Land Rover Discovery, Chevrolet Niva, VW Touareg, Range Rover, Niva, Mercedes-Benz ML / G-Class, and all models of the domestic UAZ.

The crossover family is proudly represented by the Jeep Grand, Infinity EX, Audi Q7 and Lexus RX.

The following cars are called SUVs: the new SUV Toyota RAV4, VW Tiguan, KIA Sportage, Nissan Qashqai (Murano, X-Trail) and Honda Pilot. Hopefully you can now see a clear difference.

Thinking about what a SUV and a crossover are, one cannot fail to mention cars that are at the junction of the above classes: Porsche Cayenne, Range Rover Sport and Mercedes M-Class. They combine certain features of a crossover and an SUV, that is, although crossovers usually do not have a number of crawler gears, these cars do.

Crossovers can be expensive or relatively affordable, luxuriously finished or spartan in equipment, but by no means are they designed for off-roading. And compact models (length up to 4.6 meters, base up to 2.7 meters) are, for the most part, still city cars with a relatively small interior and trunk.

In this article, we present all compact crossovers - they are also called "SUVs" - officially sold in Russia. For those who cannot imagine their future all-terrain vehicle without an “automatic”, in parentheses we indicate the minimum price with an automatic transmission. So study, count and choose.

A couple of exceptions to the general rule: Rosgosstrakh, apparently, pushing off from its statistics, raised the Casco rate for owners of Land Rover Freelander (a year ago - from 5.33%, now - from 8.29%), and MSC - for Ford Kuga (from 4.13%, now from 5.86%). This does not spoil the picture at all, since it will not be difficult to find a more profitable option in other UK. The downward trend in rates is likely to continue. After all, this category is the most dynamically growing sector of the Russian car market, and the owners of such cars are quite wealthy people (the average cost of a compact crossover is about 1 million rubles) and, as a rule, are careful about their property.

We will not see here a single vivid illustration of the generally accepted principle “The more expensive the car, the lower the rate”: even a relatively cheap Chery Tiggo can be insured against theft and damage at the same rate - 7–8% of the cost of a car as Nissan X- trail, which is one third more expensive. And yet the most modest in percentage terms hull insurance rate - from 3.78% - went to Mercedes Benz GLK at a price of under two million.

The policy for Yeti, Sportage, Tiguan will be inexpensive, but insurers clearly have questions about RAV4 and X-Trail. The reputation of the “Japanese” was tarnished by the high risk of getting into police reports as the favorites of the hijackers. However, the installation of a modern satellite anti-theft system (note that some insurers will not take under their protection the “champions” in terms of hijacking without PCA) can significantly improve matters: the discount for a “satellite” can reach 24% of the cost of the policy.

There are other ways to save money. In the first months of the year, many insurers implement programs through dealers that provide favorable conditions for insurance of certain models. Therefore, when choosing a car, it is not superfluous to call several dealers and inquire about the availability of special offers. Legal entities that insure several cars in one company or through one broker or agent can count on certain discounts, which, as a rule, are more willing to meet clients' needs than the insurers themselves.

And finally, almost all UK offer options with an unconditional deductible, allowing you to reduce the cost of the policy, depending on the size of the deductible, even by 30%.

BMW X1 from 1,274,000 (1,270,000) rubles.

The smallest of the Bavarian crossovers is 195 mm shorter, 85 mm narrower and 115 mm lower than the new X3. But in terms of driving performance, it turned out to be very mature. The X1 writes turns no worse than cars, and the relatively low ground clearance and low-hanging bumpers hint that it is better not to meddle with real off-road.

But the all-wheel drive, which can be obtained even in the relatively affordable "Special Series", will make you feel more confident on slippery or wet roads.

Vortex tingo from 499,900 rubles.

This time they are trying to set up the assembly of Chery Tiggo, well-known in Russia, in Taganrog: under the freshly baked Vortex brand, only one letter has been changed in the name of the Chinese SUV model. There is no need to choose too much - you can only get a front-wheel drive version with a 1.8-liter "four" and a manual transmission. There are only two equipment options.

We believe that it is worth paying 10,000 rubles for an electric drive of mirrors, a sunroof, as well as a mysterious “automatic adjustment of interior lighting”.

Jeep Compass from (1 245 920 rub.)

The first ever Jeep SUV is built on the same platform as the Dodge Caliber. The car surprises with its unconventional design, pleases with a spacious interior and generous basic equipment. And the finishing materials after the recent restyling, which turned the Comppass into a smaller copy of the new Grand Cherokee, look significantly more expensive.

That's just for the price, this rather interesting car again spits almost all of its competitors.

Jeep liberty from (1 227 950 rub.)

The SUV, which appeared in Russia in the summer of 2007, is known in the United States as the Patriot. But due to the fact that this name is assigned to the Ulyanovsk off-road vehicle, we called it Liberty. In fact, this is the same Compass with a slightly different appearance in the "military" style.

But out of all the variety of engines available for the American market, in Russia the car is sold exclusively with the most powerful and expensive 170-horsepower engine, seasoned with a “variator”.

Kia Sportage from 839 900 (949 900) rub.

Unlike the insipid predecessors, the third generation Sportage looks impressive and, perhaps for the first time, really justifies its "physical" name. And the quality of the interior trim has now reached a new level. Finally, thanks to a lower center of gravity (ground clearance reduced to 172 mm), the Sportage rides well on the highway.

The only pity is that the price of the "Korean" is more expensive than its Japanese competitors - even in spite of the fact that the car is being assembled in Kaliningrad.

Land Rover Freelander from RUB 1,174,000 (1,492,300)

Lightweight chassis, light transmission with permanent front-wheel drive and automatic rear-wheel drive - by all indications Freelander is a real "SUV". However, he has good geometric cross-country ability, energy-intensive suspension and the Terrain-Risponce system, which optimizes the operation of the engine, gearbox and protivo-skid, depending on the type of road surface.

High-torque turbodiesels are economical, and the 233-horsepower gasoline engine makes the prestigious all-terrain vehicle very dynamic. Last year, the car freshened up after restyling.

Mercedes-Benz GLK from (RUB 1,710,000)

The appearance of the most compact SUV with a three-pointed star, whose sales began in the fall of 2008, evokes thoughts of the old warrior Gelendewagen. But the GLK does not have a frame at all and serious off-road attributes like downshifts and locks, and it was created on the basis of the C-class.

But still? thanks to its good geometric cross-country ability, as well as the successful union of an all-wheel drive chassis, powerful motors and a fast 7-speed "automatic" GLK can be called an excellent alternative to passenger cars.

Mini countryman from RUB 940,000 (1,014,500)

Although the ground clearance is only a modest 14mm over the regular Mini, the Countryman's forged suspension is more responsive to shock loads. A truly full-fledged crossover, it can only be considered a version Cooper S ALL4, which, taking into account the inevitable set of additional equipment, can easily be pulled up to one and a half million rubles.

With a powerful engine and four-wheel drive, this Mini will not be intimidated by the “last mile” on the way to the country house.

Nissan x-trail from RUB 990,000 (1,037,000)

Despite the external resemblance to its predecessor, the second generation Nissan X-Trail is a completely new car, created on a platform common with the Qashqai model. The car became taller, wider and significantly longer, received a very comfortable trunk and a more advanced all-wheel drive transmission. The interior has been significantly improved.

In 2009, the production of X-Trail was mastered at the St. Petersburg plant Nissan, which made the prices a little more attractive.

Nissan qashqai from 753,000 (894,000) rubles.

It is not easy to classify this car. In the basic version with a 115-horsepower engine, this is just a "golf" -class hatchback with increased ground clearance. Well, with a 2-liter engine and all-wheel drive - a full-fledged "SUV". In addition, the car has one of the best interiors in the class, an excellent CVT and the most affordable price among Japanese brands.

At the end of 2008, the Qashqai + 2 version appeared with a base extended by 134 mm and two additional places in the grown trunk.

Renault koleos from 999,000 (1,119,000) rubles.

The SUV, built on the same base as the Qashqai and X-Trail, debuted in 2008. The base 2.5-liter petrol engine is also borrowed from under the hood of Nissan, which makes the relatively light Renault Koleos an inveterate sprinter. But even on long journeys, you can safely use Renault - the energy-intensive suspension will not count every hole in the asphalt.

In the “Speaker” version, for an additional payment of 40 thousand rubles, in addition to a dozen pleasant little things, you will receive 4 airbags.

SsangYong New Actyon II from 799,000 (866,000) rubles.

Unlike its predecessor with a rather eccentric appearance, New Actyon, which came out from the pen of maestro Giugiaro, looks pretty. Technically, the crossover has changed no less radically: instead of a frame - a monocoque body, independent suspension and disc brakes.

At the same time, Actyon retained some all-terrain capabilities: for example, the ford depth is commendable 30 cm. The assembly of the crossover began at the end of last year at the Far Eastern enterprise Sollers.

Subaru forester from 1,037,700 (1,067,700) rubles.

The third generation Subaru Forester has become completely different. Due to the increased size and more brutal appearance, the "Forester" now looks much more like a real off-road vehicle than a passenger four-wheel drive station wagon, as it was before. I am glad that the newcomer's ground clearance is an impressive 215 mm, which, together with a downshift (1.45), will allow you to safely knead suburban dirt.

This could not but affect the price - Forester has become noticeably more expensive. Perhaps the best version will be the VR version with a manual gearbox (there is no downshift with an automatic transmission), which differs from the base one with a 6-disc changer, xenon and alloy wheels.

Toyota RAV4 from RUB 916,000 (1,036,000)

The Japanese “SUV” of the third generation resembles its predecessor only in name: it has noticeably increased in size, thanks to which the sofa and trunk have become much more spacious. The basic equipment is now richer - seven airbags instead of two. The all-wheel drive transmission received a center differential lock, which can be useful on light off-road conditions.

After a recent restyling, the power of the base motor has grown, a modification with front-wheel drive has appeared.

Volkswagen tiguan from 995,000 (1,197,000) rubles.

Sales of new items began in the summer of 2008, and a little later, the production of Tiguan was established at the company's plant near Kaluga. In our opinion, the most important feature of this car, which was based on the Golf, is its amazing handling. Perhaps no crossover in the class can bring so much joy to the active driver.

But so that these qualities are not lost, choose the all-wheel drive version with an excellent 170-horsepower engine and an agile 6-speed “automatic”.

Ford Kuga from 999 000 (1 200 000 rub.)

The fashionable all-wheel drive crossover, which appeared in 2008, conquers with its well-formed shapes, high-quality interior and a powerful, economical turbodiesel. In addition, Kuga has a fairly spacious interior - after all, a model based on the C-Max compact van has been created.

The optimal power unit, we consider the 163-horsepower turbodiesel, which appeared at the end of last year, which, with a dynamics comparable to the petrol “turbo-five”, has a twice as modest appetite.

Hyundai IX35 from 899 900 (979 900) rub.

The model changer Tucson bears little resemblance to its highly popular predecessor. IX, which debuted at a salon in Frankfurt in the fall of 2009, looks more modern, and the interior is hardly inferior to the best Japanese and European counterparts in terms of the quality of finish and design.

The 2-liter petrol “four” became more powerful, and the outdated automatic transmission was replaced by a modern 6-speed “automatic”. In addition, now even the database contains almost everything you need, with the exception of ESP.

Hyundai Santa-Fe Classic from 795 900 (825 300) rub.

In April 2007, the production of the first generation Santa-Fe began in Taganrog, the production of which in Korea was discontinued several years ago. The obviously outdated exterior and interior of the SUV is more than compensated for by the price favorable by today's standards.

However, the plant will release the last batch of 700-800 cars this winter, after which the Classic assembly will be completely discontinued. So if you like this Hyundai you should hurry up.

Honda CR-V from 1 112 000 (1 220 000) rub.

"SUV" of the third generation, with a slightly shorter length, is slightly wider and lower than its predecessor, which, coupled with a rather predatory expression of the "face", gave the look of aggressiveness. At the same time, the quality of finishing materials has increased, and the interior has become more spacious and comfortable.

At a height, by the standards of the class, handling, and the base 150-horsepower engine endows the car with acceptable dynamics and at the same time is quite economical. It is curious that since 2006 the car has already undergone two restyling.

Chery tiggo from 639,000 rubles.

The Chinese SUV, resembling the previous generation Toyota RAV4, has been on sale in Russia since December 2005. At one time, Chery Tiggo was even assembled in Kaliningrad, but now the situation is somewhat different - from China we are supplied exclusively with an all-wheel drive modification with a 2-liter 136-horsepower engine in the only version of equipment, and the version with front-wheel drive and a less powerful engine is now being produced in Taganrog under Vortex Tingo's own brand.

Skoda yeti from 729,000 (789,000) rubles.

With such a set of consumer qualities, Skoda will at least not yield to its main competitor - Qashqai, and in many respects will surpass it. It is gratifying that last autumn dealers began accepting orders for the long-awaited 4x4 version with automatic transmission.

Buying your dream car is not an easy task. Given the state of affairs, potential buyers are increasingly opting for vehicles that combine not only excellent performance, but are also characterized by decent cross-country ability. An excellent option for a car suitable both for driving in the city and for suburban trips is the category of SUVs. They harmoniously combine the comfort and handling of a conventional passenger car, four-wheel drive, high seating position and solid SUV design.

Having studied the SUVs popular in Russia, we provide potential buyers with models that are characterized by excellent technical characteristics, meet the ratio of price and quality, and are reliable when used on domestic roads.

In all respects, the new Santa Fe is better than the outgoing model. In our list, this is the best SUV in 2019 in terms of price / quality ratio. It's safer, more spacious and much quieter, but looks better. SUV cost - $ 26800- $ 39900

The 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe is very quiet inside for a SUV, not unlike an expensive luxury car thanks to extensive use of noise-dampening technologies, including laminated side glass. Moreover, the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine will deliver maximum power even at an altitude of 2000 m. The new 8-speed automatic is incredibly smooth, and the new AWD Santa Fe acts primarily as a front-wheel drive car, sending power to the rear wheels in slippery conditions.

In addition, in Sport mode, 35 percent of the power is transferred back automatically. Power steering has a natural feel, and the standard lane keep assist program has three intervention levels (and off) for the driver to select the level of audible warnings and / or steering intervention. On a flat tarmac or dirt road, the 2019 Santa Fe's ride quality remains high, with well-controlled movements and excellent day-to-day comfort.

It also offers more precise suspension damping, aided by improved rear shocks that are mounted more vertically than the previous Santa Fe. Finally, the automatic stop / start in Santa Fe is smooth and subtle.

Peculiarities:

  • HTRAC AWD.

The Hyundai HTRAC drive, optional on the Santa Fe, has an electronic center clutch that predictably modifies engine torque between the front and rear axles to improve vehicle stability. The transmission also features torque vectoring and three driver selectable modes: Normal, Sport and Smart.

  • Improved appearance.

Compared to the Santa Fe Sport, the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe has a significantly better appearance. Its A-pillars are thinner, the side mirrors are installed lower on the doors, and its rear window has been increased in size by more than 40 percent thanks to the lower belt.

Interior and exterior

Except for the hard plastic, the interior of the new Santa Fe looks pretty nice, nice and comfortable. The dashboard has a three-tier design, and the seats use foam of varying densities in targeted areas, making them as comfortable to use as possible. There is plenty of legroom for tall passengers, even with the optional panoramic roof installed. All of the Santa Fe's switches and controls work accurately, and buttons for many safety technologies are grouped to the left of the steering wheel.

Hyundai has installed a navigation screen to reduce glare, the power window switches have been pushed forward for extra elbow room, and the power tailgate, which can be opened with a single foot movement, has two speeds: 4.5 seconds or 6 seconds. The load compartment aft of the rear seat is slightly larger than that of the Santa Fe Sport.

From all angles, the 2019 Santa Fe is dominated by Hyundai's new cascading grille at the front. The slim LED daytime running lights look like a Jeep Cherokee; the actual headlights are low where the high beam is usually located. On the side, Hyundai's compact SUV features a recognizable line that stretches from headlights to taillights and is one of the reasons the Santa Fe side windows are taller and provide a better look. The side windows are surrounded by satin finish and the reversing signals are flush with the bumper. Standard aluminum alloy wheels add a rough, durable look.

All 2019 Santa Fe features SmartSense, the company's suite of security technologies. It offers collision assistance (with pedestrian protection), blind spot collision avoidance, rear traffic alert, lane keeping assist (with three levels of participation), intelligent cruise control (stop and go), warning and a safe exit that locks the doors to prevent people from getting out of the vehicle if the Santa Fe senses movement from behind. Also standard is a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

A long list of additional features is provided by the HTRAC AWD system, which will cost you $ 1,700. Another important pick is the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine available on the Limited and Ultimate models and is worth considering if you are traveling or living at high altitude. Other options available in the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe include an 8-inch multimedia navigation system, next-generation Blue Link, wireless smartphone charging, heated seats, a surround-view monitor, a huge panoramic sunroof, rain-sensitive wipers and sun shades. rear window curtains. There's also an available 630-watt Infinity audio system with 12 speakers and a Clari-Fi system that restores sound details lost in digital music.

The 2019 Subaru Crosstrek all-wheel drive SUV has a wide range of features at a reasonable price of $ 22,900- $ 36,000.

If we're just talking about the day to day, the 2019 Crosstrek is a perfectly acceptable and reliable companion. Comfortable but manageable, quite quiet and peaceful. The biggest disadvantage, which also affected the previous generation, is that the engine power (152 horsepower) is barely enough, especially when entering the track or overtaking. The standard transmission is a 6-speed manual gearbox, which doesn't really help get the most out of the engine. The automatic alternative is a continuously variable transmission (CVT), known for being slow to respond. At least the new Crosstrek has a useful 22cm ground clearance.

While the new Crosstrek Hybrid is heavier and less powerful than the non-hybrid, it is actually slightly faster, although both boast only moderate, if sufficient, power. The hybrid is also quieter thanks to the added soundproofing. And when the road gets dangerous, the Subaru Hybrid's all-wheel drive and off-road instincts come to the fore, and the standard X-Mode with Hill Descent Control masterly tames slippery descents.

Peculiarities:

  • X-Mode Hill Descent Control function.

If the driver of the Crosstrek is adventurous enough to tackle the steep and slippery slope, this feature will come in handy. Just press the appropriate button and concentrate solely on the steering without the need to control the speed of the car. The X-Mode Crosstrek system handles the rest (CVT models only). This function is especially useful for Russia with our roads.

  • Apple Carplay and Android Auto.

Smartphone integration is becoming more and more popular in new cars. Even on the lowest 2019 Crosstrek trim, the feature comes by default.

Interior and exterior

The 5-seater Crosstrek has a decent amount of cargo and passenger space for a SUV. The rear seats fold down to offer between 580 liters and 1560 liters of space. The A-pillars and side struts are relatively thin, contributing to a premium appearance, and the dashboard is unassuming and contains good quality materials. Complaints from most users are about the rigid front head restraints and the fact that the Crosstrek Hybrid's battery is compromising the capacity of the rear boot. The seats could use a little more lower back support.

Every driver has a different idea of ​​how good a car looks, but Subaru has never been a company that puts a lot of emphasis on exterior design. Plus, the current Crosstrek isn't much different from its predecessor. This is hardly a problem, since this car has other advantages and is selling quite well.

Subaru fans will appreciate the fact that the tailgate of the new Crosstrek is 10cm wider than the first generation, creating a larger compartment through which to load luggage and sports equipment. Roof rails are also standard equipment. The Crosstrek Hybrid has its own body color scheme and a high-gloss black rear roof spoiler.

Standard and optional equipment

The 2019 Crosstrek range starts with 17-inch alloy wheels, Bluetooth, audio, smartphone integration, all-wheel drive with vector torque control, additional airbag and 6.5-inch touchscreen. For an additional $ 1,000, the Premium package includes a leather steering wheel, soundproofed windshield, heated front seats and side mirrors, fog lamps, and an upgraded infotainment system that includes satellite radio and Subaru's Starlink assistance system (with emergency system), remote lock / unlock, stolen vehicle finder and automatic collision alerts. Optional extras include 18-inch alloy wheels, leather upholstery, 8-inch touchscreen and some advanced driver assistance.

Standard pluses of the lavishly equipped Crosstrek Hybrid include leather upholstery in exclusive colors, power driver's seat, heated front seats, keyless entry and push-button start, 18-inch wheels, plus a suite of EyeSight safety features, blind spot detection and rear cross-signaling with automatic braking.

The base 2.0i can be equipped with adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assistance and front impact mitigation. The premium trim can also include blind spot monitoring with rear cross traffic alert. Other options include a power sunroof, navigation, automatic reverse braking and a Harman Kardon audio system. The Crosstrek Hybrid's only option is the $ 2,500 package, which includes a sunroof, Harman Kardon navigation and audio system, and a heated steering wheel.

The 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLC SUV, priced between $ 41,000 and $ 52,000, really brings out the premium. Even among prominent competitors like the Audi Q5 and BMW X3, the luxury factor of the GLC puts it in its own small niche. Using the current C-Class platform as its foundation, the GLC-Class combines sophistication, a cozy interior and relaxed handling. In this review, we will focus on the GLC300 / GLC300 4Matic and the GLC350e hybrid. They are the least expensive, but far from the simplest. The wider range of the 2019 GLC-Class also includes the AMG GLC43, GLC63 and 4-door coupé variants, which, at the expense of practicality, stand out for their stylish design.

Features and disadvantages

If you want class, prestige and all-wheel drive, Mercedes-Benz is the best choice for you. The GLC300 2019 goals have all of these benefits. We expect nothing less from a company that has been building beautiful and phenomenal quality cars for decades. If cargo space is your priority, keep looking. With a maximum volume of 1600 liters. behind the front seats, the GLC isn't as roomy as the BMW X3, which has 1,770bhp. In this case, look for models like the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class or BMW X5.

The latest 2019 model offers heated front seats and a 115-volt power outlet by default. New options include three-zone automatic climate control, a special package for all-wheel-drive versions, a couple of new exterior paint colors and a new 20-inch alloy wheel design for the GLC350e hybrid.

Under the hood

The 2019 GLC300 is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine that develops 241 horsepower. The 9-speed automatic transmission transfers this energy to either the rear wheels (RWD) as a default setting, or to all four wheels (AWD) when 4Matic is installed. Fuel consumption is tolerable, but could be more economical. The hybrid GLC350e 4Matic complements the 2.0-liter turbo electric motor with a total output of 320 horsepower. Action - up to 15 km. A 7-speed automatic transmission is also integrated. The developers claim that with the appropriate settings in the Dynamic Select, the GLC is capable of off-road driving. But the lack of short-range gears will limit how comfortable the driver is.

Rounding out the 2019 Range Rover Sport SUV in terms of price / performance, starting at $ 68,000, it combines two elements that could not be more diametrically opposed: the tenacious ability of an SUV and the uncompromising luxury of a luxury SUV. Unlike many luxury crossovers, the Range Rover Sport avoids a low roofline and sloping rear end in favor of a traditional British design, albeit with slightly rounded edges.

Features and additions of the new model

Range Rover Sport offers great interior and incredible handling wherever it goes. Unlike the Audi A7 or BMW X5, this luxury giant can navigate the most ruthless places on the planet with little difficulty. The new one helps keep this iconic SUV up to date without giving up any of its historic capabilities.

If you are looking for a luxury SUV worthy of the status you have achieved in life, but your youth side is still looking to get away from the civilized world, the 2019 Range Rover Sport can fulfill both roles. Despite the improvement, Land Rover's reliability is still not as good as some of its competitors. You can find the same luxurious 7-seater SUV for less money, although it's likely only the Lexus LX 570 can make a healthy competitor to the Range Rover lineup.

Range Rover Sport gets a new plug-in hybrid powertrain capable of traveling up to 50 km. on pure electric traction. Standard driver assistance systems have been enhanced to include adaptive cruise control with steering assistance and Wade Sensing to monitor water depth when crossing streams or flooded roads.

Peculiarities:

  • Torque Vectoring is a torque distribution system.

The Range Rover Sport V8 features Torque Vectoring, a system that uses braking to regulate rear-wheel drive power when the vehicle is cornering. With a lot of torque going to the outer wheel, understeer is limited, while cornering and off-road capabilities are greatly improved.

  • Hybrid version.

Combining a 296-horsepower 4-cylinder engine with a 141-horsepower electric motor, the Range Rover Sport P400e accelerates to 100 km. per hour in just 6.3 seconds.

Standard and optional equipment

Base Range Rover Sport SE comes standard with leather interior and 14-way electric front seats, air suspension, multi-mode Terrain Response switch and front / rear parking sensors. An addition for the new model year is the InControl Touch Pro Duo infotainment system with two 10-inch touchscreens. Also included are Bluetooth headset and audio connectivity, remote recognition and pushbutton start, and the auto-access height lowers the car's air suspension when installed in a park. All of this is offered along with two USB ports and a navigation system.

There are many engine options, from supercharged V6 and V8 to diesel and gasoline / electric hybrid turbocharged V6. The 2019 Range Rover Sport SVR is the top-of-the-line supercharged 575-horsepower V8 engine with adaptive cruise control, "automatic" parallel parking, advanced blind spot monitoring, traffic sign recognition, surround view cameras and an LCD instrument panel.

Off-roading features a two-speed transfer case, universal ride control, torque vectoring and Terrain Response 2 Auto. Optional features and accessories include a panoramic sunroof, third row of seats and a 1700-watt, 23-speaker Meridian sound system.

Under the hood

The 2019 Range Rover Sport offers a choice of four engines, each powered by either supercharging or turbocharging. At the bottom of the list is the 340 hp 3.0-liter V6, which is also available in a more powerful 380 hp version. With. Next up is the 254 horsepower turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 diesel that develops nearly the same torque as the V8 engines.

The new P400e plug-in hybrid uses a turbocharged 4-cylinder engine paired with a powerful electric motor located between the petrol unit and the 8-speed automatic transmission. The system is equipped with a 13.1 kWh battery capable of propelling the P400e with electricity for 50 km.

The top engine is the 5.0-liter V8 with 518 horsepower or higher, which produces 575 horsepower in the Range Rover Sport SVR. All engines come with a superb 8-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive as standard.

Modern SUVs of parquet type are more and more often found on the roads of Russia. About forty percent of all-terrain vehicles in Russia are SUVs, which is absolutely not surprising. These cars combine all the acceptable qualities both for megalopolises and for the countryside, are characterized by decent cross-country ability, maneuverability, handling and durability, and the SUV is an ideal variant of the car.

In order for the purchased SUV to meet the owner's expectations, it is worth taking a very responsible attitude to his choice, comparing all your wishes and preferences with personal needs and operating style. Give preference to only time-tested and tested car models, then your money will not be wasted.

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