If you are looking for a new car and you need something spacious, you should consider a 4×4 or an SUV. These types of cars are often grouped together under the same umbrella and a lot of people think that they are the same thing, but they’re not.
There are, in fact, some important differences between the two and if you want to make the right decision when buying a new vehicle, it’s important that you understand those differences. So, what’s the difference between an SUV and a 4×4?
What Is A 4×4?
A 4×4 gets its name because the engine powers all 4 wheels at the same time, instead of only powering two. Most standard cars are either rear-wheel or front-wheel drive and only two of the wheels are powered by the engine. Many people get confused about what constitutes a 4×4 and what is considered an SUV. For example, you may wonder, is the Grandland X a Vauxhall 4×4 because it has the same body shape as a 4×4? However, the Grandland X engine only powers 2 wheels instead of 4 and the body and chassis are built in a different way, so it counts as an SUV instead of a 4×4.
A 4×4 is designed this way to give it more power and the body is built onto the chassis, to give it more strength. This means that it’s better at handling rough terrain, but it sacrifices handling on roads as a result.
The benefits of a 4×4
There are a few key benefits of a 4×4:
- Capable of dealing with rough terrain
- Good at driving in snow or deep mud
- Simple build makes them easy to repair
- Good for towing
What Is An SUV?
The SUV was born off the back of the popularity of 4x4s. Manufacturers noticed that people wanted the reliability of a 4×4, but they also wanted a luxury driving experience at the same time. This is why the SUV (sports utility vehicle) was created.
They look very similar to a 4×4 and have the same high driving position. However, the body is usually sleeker and the body is not built directly on the chassis. An SUV usually handles more like a car, so if you are not used to driving vehicles of this size, it’s usually the best option. Most modern SUVs are available with 4-wheel drive options, so the major difference is the styling and the construction of the body and chassis, which makes them better suited to everyday driving.
The benefits of an SUV
The main benefits of an SUV include:
- Small engines mean lower fuel costs and emissions
- Better suited to city driving
- Better safety features and more crumple zones than most 4x4s
Hopefully, this quick guide has given you more insight into the difference between an SUV and a 4×4, so the car buying process will be much easier for you. In general, an SUV is best for people that want a spacious vehicle for everyday driving. They’re cheaper to run and they have more modern comforts. But if you are looking for something heavy duty to handle rough terrain, a 4×4 is best.
*This is a collaboration post
Copyright: Image by StockUnlimited
