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Knowing the Differences Between Your Average Car and a Crossover
So, you’re looking for a new car – congrats! It’s always exciting (and, admittedly, a bit bittersweet) when deciding to switch out the old mode of transportation and upgrade to something new.
With crossovers gaining more traction and popularity in the driving world, it’s understandable that they may have crossed your mind as a potential option. But what’s the difference between a crossover and your regular old car?
In this article, we’ll cover the similarities and differences between these types of automobiles, so you can make an informed decision on which kind will be best for you. You can go into the dealership confident, knowing that you’re choosing the car that’s the best fit for your lifestyle!
“What’s the difference between a crossover and your regular old car?”
What is a Car?
While this question might seem a bit futile, it is important to first define what a car is before defining what a crossover is, so you can better understand the nuances between the two. If we’re breaking it down to the basics, a car is any four-wheeled vehicle that is used for transportation purposes.
Today, more than something that just gets you from point A to point B, a car is also something that helps keep you safe during travel. Depending on your lifestyle and climate, you may be looking for a car with more specific features in this department.
That’s why it’s important to know exactly what you’re getting before making a commitment on any car – so you’ll know your vehicle will stand the test of time with your day-to-day life.
“It’s important to know exactly what you’re getting before making a commitment on any car.”
What is a Crossover?
A crossover does indeed fall into the category of “car,” but it is a very specific type of car, with especially unique features (as we’ve touched upon above). A key feature of a crossover is increased ride height, meaning you’re propped up taller within the vehicle while driving.
This could be a benefit for you if you’re used to long-distance driving or driving on rough terrain. Additional features that you may want to think of when considering a crossover include, but are not limited to:
Four Wheel Drive/All Wheel Drive
Crossovers are extremely efficient and safe vehicles, especially when it comes to their equipped features. When shopping for crossovers, you’ll notice either four-wheel drive or all-wheel drive listed as competitive features.
This makes it easier for the car to drive on uneven or slippery terrain, making it a great investment if you live in a snowy or rocky state, or if you’re a fan of off-roading, camping, or making trips through wilderness in general.
“Crossovers are extremely efficient and safe vehicles, especially when it comes to their equipped features.”
Safety, Safety, Safety
While not all vehicles are manufactured specifically with safety features in mind, we can honestly say that crossovers are.
No matter what size crossover you’re looking for, you can rest assured that your car is keeping you and your passengers safe while driving, from airbag protection to automatic braking to backup cameras. This makes crossovers a great choice for growing families and those that may be more cautious drivers in general.
It is important to note that safety features may vary depending on the year in which your vehicle was manufactured, so make sure to ask specific questions regarding safety features while you’re at the dealership.
“No matter what size crossover you’re looking for, you can rest assured that your car is keeping you and your passengers safe while driving.”
Spacious Seating Options
Speaking of growing families, crossovers come equipped with ample seating; much more than competing vehicles. With a crossover, you won’t have to worry about whether you’re able to fit that extra bag of luggage in the back of your car – you can just throw it on back there and be on your merry way.
In fact, many crossover models come with third-row seating, making it easier than ever to take road trips with the whole gang. If seating is something at the top of your list for your new car, then crossovers should definitely be a strong contender.
“Crossovers come equipped with ample seating; much more than competing vehicles.”
An Efficient Drive
Are you looking for a car that will take you to your destination with ease? If so, the crossover may be the correct choice for you. Crossovers have better fuel economy than other vehicles, so you likely won’t find yourself having to constantly pull over to the side of the road to gas up.
This may come as a surprise since crossovers are larger set, but they are built with aerodynamics and the drive itself in mind. This way, you can enjoy the drive and make it to your destination with ease, so you don’t have to constantly worry about gas efficiency.
“Crossovers have better fuel economy than other vehicles.”
Related: Different Types of Fuel for Cars | Economy vs Compact Car
Getting Into the Details – Materials
The benefits of considering a crossover goes deeper than the features – they’re (quite literally) built differently!
Crossovers are built to last, using sturdy platforms and materials to aid in the longevity of your vehicle. While more compact cars can be less sturdy in their build, you’ll know you’re on stable ground when driving a crossover.
“Crossovers are built to last, using sturdy platforms and materials to aid in the longevity of your vehicle.”
Design Features that Make Crossovers Different from Other Cars
With automotive design, all cars will have different factors to take into consideration. Ones built for style will have a different design from those built for speed, which will have a different design from those built for mileage, etc…
One of the biggest features of crossovers is their body-on-frame construction that blends characteristics of SUVs, as well. This allows a lift to the vehicle, which is designed for a smoother ride and an easier view of the road from the driver’s seat.
“One of the biggest features of crossovers is their body-on-frame construction.”
Durability of Crossovers vs. Cars
We said it once and we’ll say it again – crossovers are built to last. So, it should be no secret that they’re built with durability in mind. When you purchase a crossover, you won’t have to plan for a new car in the foreseeable future (unless you really want a change, of course).
As we’ve mentioned before, the build of a crossover is manufactured atop a platform, giving it an extra layer of foundation. This aids in extra safety and longevity for the vehicle, meaning that it will keep you safe for several years to come.
“When you purchase a crossover, you won’t have to plan for a new car in the foreseeable future.”
Cost Differences of Crossovers vs. Cars
As yet another added benefit of crossovers, they aren’t a car that will typically break the bank. While some sports cars and flashier modes of transportation can err on the pricier side, a crossover is (we believe) very fairly priced for the features you’re getting.
Depending on your budgetary constraints and the make/model of the crossover you’re considering, this investment may set you back $19,000-$30,000 in the long run, which is fairly average pricing in terms of automobiles.
“As yet another added benefit of crossovers, they aren’t a car that will typically break the bank.”
Back to the Benefits – Which Vehicle Should You Choose?
As we’ve mentioned earlier in the article, the car you choose to purchase should be a direct representation of the lifestyle you live. If you’re living in a city with the only intention of getting from point A to point B in mind, then a smaller, more compact car may be in the cards for you.
However, if you have more people (or materials) you’re driving around in your vehicle or different terrains where a larger car would be helpful, then a crossover would likely be the best bet for you. (See “What is a Crossover?” and “Design/Durability of Crossovers” sections above for additional information).
“The car you choose to purchase should be a direct representation of the lifestyle you live.”
History of Cars vs. Crossovers
As you likely know, cars, in general, have a history that goes back to the late 1800s – originally created as a new mode of transportation to help people reach new destinations, their features were little to none. However, over time, cars have made quite the advancement from the original “Model T.”
Since the mass production of vehicles began, there have become a myriad of options you’re able to choose from – which brings us to 1977, the birth of the crossover.
Originally built with passenger and cargo space in mind, it’s not surprising that people immediately jumped on this new style of vehicle. Since the conception of this vehicle, it has grown wildly in popularity. In fact, approximately 40% of people in the United States drive crossovers.
“Originally built with passenger and cargo space in mind, it’s not surprising that people immediately jumped on this new style of vehicle.”
Similarities Found Between Crossovers and Other Cars
A crossover is indeed a type of car like any other, which means it can either be very similar (or very different) from other cars you may see at the dealership. Due to its platform-based build and passenger/cargo space, a crossover is likely most similar to an SUV or pickup.
They are equipped with some of the same safety and drive features, so if for whatever reason a crossover isn’t in the cards for you, one of these other options may be a good choice for you.
“Due to its platform-based build and passenger/cargo space, a crossover is likely most similar to an SUV or pickup.”
Are You Ready to Choose Your New Car?
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We understand how daunting it can be when choosing to purchase a new car – it’s a big financial commitment and you obviously want to make sure you’re making the best decision for your intended use of the vehicle.
At this point, you should be fairly well-versed in the nuances and similarities between crossovers and different types of cars you may be considering. You should be able to tell if the crossover is the right choice for you, or if another route may be better for your lifestyle and projected destinations.
For more information on the rest of your automobile needs, feel free to follow us along and learn what cars offer different features and benefits for your specific needs. We’re here to help you find the right ride for your unique lifestyle!
“For more information on the rest of your automobile needs, feel free to follow us along and learn what cars offer different features and benefits for your specific needs.”