Midsize, compact, or full-size: which SUV is best for you? Here’s how to evaluate each, and make the best decision for your family.
The Classifications
There are generally three types of SUVs: compact, midsize, and fullsize. Each one has its own benefits and disadvantages. You’ll often hear the term “crossover” used, but this is largely a marketing gimmick used to describe an SUV that’s built on a smaller chassis.
The Chassis
The chassis of the vehicle is the base or frame that the vehicle is constructed on. it determines its maximum potential in size and power, as well as towing ability. For example, the pre-2011 Ford Explorer used to be built on a truck-based chassis. The 2016 Ford Explorer is actually built on a car-based chassis.
What does this mean? It means that the explorer is now a “crossover” vehicle. Since the chassis is smaller, it’s better suited to on-road applications where a smoother ride is desired over towing capabilities.
A truck-based SUV, on the other hand, is one that’s built on a more rigid and sturdy frame. It is more capable in terms of towing capacity, but it’s generally not as good on fuel economy.
This is one of the most important considerations when making an SUV purchase, as the wrong chassis won’t meet your goals as a driver.
Pricing Considerations
As you might expect, the chassis, power, torque, and features all play into the pricing of the vehicle. Compact SUVs are the most affordable, and prices for base models start under $20,000. The midsized lot can vary by a lot, with base models starting in the mid $20,000 range. Full-size SUVs can start in the mid $40,000 range, and luxury models start around $32,000 and climb up to $100,000.
Pros and Cons Of Each
Each kind of SUV has its advantages and disadvantages. The smaller SUVs are an obvious choice for small families that still need a lot of room for kids, a dog, and maybe enough supplies for a weekend camping trip.
The midsize SUV crowd benefits from having a vehicle that’s more capable on the towing front, and a little bit roomier. They also don’t cost as much as larger SUVs. In terms of value for the money, this is where it’s at.
Larger SUVs that are truck-based are uncompromising. They’re perfect for those who need extra towing power along with the storage and passenger capacity that a truck doesn’t have.
Now for the downsides:
Compact SUVs are small. Sometimes, they’re too small. And, yet, they’re still SUVs. So, they’re not getting more than about 20 MPG – maybe 25. That can turn some people off. Midsized SUVs are usually a good buy, but they often tend to be built on a car chassis, so they’re not really made for heavy-duty towing and they’re priced more like full-sized SUVs than compacts.
Full-size SUVs have the problem of being so large. They don’t get good fuel economy. And, while they are built on a sturdier truck chassis, you pay a premium for that upgrade, making it the most expensive SUV options on the market.
John Garcia has held a variety of roles in the automotive industry. He likes to think he understands cars inside and out and enjoys sharing his insights online. John writes regularly for a variety of motoring inspired websites.