What’s the difference between an SUV and a crossover?

Traditionally, SUVs use a truck-like body-on-frame construction for maximum durability and towing, while crossovers use a car-like unibody structure for better ride, handling, and efficiency; today the terms are often blurred in marketing, but construction type still drives the biggest real-world differences.

How we got here: the engineering divide

The SUV-versus-crossover distinction began with how the vehicle is built, not how it looks. Early SUVs borrowed ladder frames from pickup trucks, prioritizing ruggedness and load-bearing strength. Crossovers emerged later as car-based alternatives, combining a higher driving position with the packaging and road manners of passenger cars.

Body-on-frame (traditional SUV)

In body-on-frame designs, the body sits atop a separate ladder-style frame. This setup is robust for heavy towing, hauling, and sustained off-road punishment. It also tends to be heavier, ride a bit rougher, and use more fuel. Think of it as truck DNA adapted for passenger use.

Unibody (crossover)

Unibody integrates the body and frame into a single structure. It’s lighter, stiffer in torsion, and better at absorbing crash energy, which usually means more agile handling, better fuel economy, and a quieter ride. Most modern family “SUVs” on sale are, technically, crossovers by this definition.

What changes for drivers: on-road comfort vs. off-road grit

Here’s how the construction differences show up in everyday ownership, from school runs to trailheads.

• Capability and towing: Body-on-frame SUVs often tow more (full-size models like Chevrolet Tahoe or Ford Expedition commonly exceed 8,000 lb), while crossovers are typically in the 1,500–5,000 lb range, with a few exceptions.
• Ride and handling: Unibody crossovers generally ride smoother, corner with less body roll, and are quieter inside; BOF SUVs can feel bouncier on broken pavement.
• Off-road hardware: Traditional SUVs more often offer low-range transfer cases, higher payloads, and underbody protection; many crossovers rely on traction-control software and all-wheel drive without low range.
• Efficiency: Crossovers usually return better fuel economy thanks to lower weight and more aerodynamic shapes; hybrids and plug-ins amplify this edge.
• Interior space: Unibody packaging often yields flatter floors and better space efficiency for passengers and cargo at a given exterior size.
• Durability for abuse: Frequent rough trails, heavy cargo, or towing near limits still favor BOF platforms.

In short, crossovers excel at daily driving and family duties, while traditional SUVs shine when you frequently tow, carry heavy loads, or wheel off-road.

Drivetrain and traction: AWD vs. 4WD

Most crossovers use automatic, on-demand all-wheel drive with a transaxle and no low range; it’s effective for rain, snow, light trails, and gravel. Many body-on-frame SUVs offer part-time or full-time 4WD with a transfer case and low range for crawling, plus features like locking differentials and, sometimes, solid axles for articulation. Notably, some unibody models (e.g., Jeep Grand Cherokee, Land Rover Defender) pair unibody strength with advanced 4×4 systems, blurring expectations.

Size classes and notable examples

Both crossovers and SUVs span subcompact to full-size segments. Below are illustrative examples to clarify which is which by construction, noting that brands often market both simply as “SUVs.”

Common crossovers (unibody)

These vehicles use car-like unibody architectures and prioritize on-road comfort and efficiency, while offering available AWD for poor weather or light trails.

• Compact/midsize: Toyota RAV4 and Highlander/Grand Highlander; Honda CR‑V and Pilot; Hyundai Tucson and Santa Fe; Kia Sportage, Sorento, and Telluride; Mazda CX‑5, CX‑50, and CX‑90; Subaru Forester and Outback; Nissan Rogue and Pathfinder; Ford Bronco Sport and Explorer; Chevrolet Equinox and Traverse; Volkswagen Tiguan and Atlas; Volvo XC60 and XC90; BMW X3 and X5; Mercedes‑Benz GLC and GLE; Land Rover Defender (unibody but very capable).
• EV crossovers: Tesla Model Y; Ford Mustang Mach‑E; Hyundai Ioniq 5; Kia EV6 and EV9; Volkswagen ID.4; Nissan Ariya; Rivian R1S (skateboard unibody, highly capable off-road).

Despite their “SUV” badging in showrooms, these are technically crossovers due to their unibody platforms.

Common traditional SUVs (body-on-frame)

These models use truck-like ladder frames, favoring towing, payload, and sustained off-road use over absolute ride comfort.

• Midsize/off-road focused: Toyota 4Runner (new generation), Toyota Land Cruiser (250 Series), Lexus GX; Jeep Wrangler; Ford Bronco; Mercedes‑Benz G‑Class.
• Full-size: Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban; GMC Yukon; Cadillac Escalade; Ford Expedition; Toyota Sequoia; Nissan Armada; Infiniti QX80.

If you regularly tow heavy trailers, drive over rugged terrain, or need maximum durability, these are the archetypal SUVs.

Why the terms get confusing

Marketing and consumer language have largely merged “SUV” and “crossover.” Automakers often label any high-riding, two- or three-row vehicle an SUV, regardless of construction. Meanwhile, some unibody models add serious off-road tech, while some BOF models prioritize luxury and ride quality. Electrification further muddies the waters: most EV “SUVs” ride on skateboard-style unibody platforms but can be extremely capable due to instant torque and advanced traction control.

Buying checklist: how to choose for your needs

Consider the following factors to decide whether a crossover or a traditional SUV fits your use case.

1. Towing and payload: Identify your real trailer weight (with gear) and payload needs; match to manufacturer ratings with margin.
2. Off-road frequency: Occasional dirt roads favor crossovers with AWD; frequent rocky or rutted trails argue for BOF with low range and better clearance.
3. Daily comfort: If you prioritize ride quality, handling, noise, and fuel economy, lean unibody.
4. Space and access: Evaluate third-row usability and cargo floor height; unibody designs often pack space more efficiently.
5. Weather traction: Modern AWD systems on crossovers are excellent for snow and rain; winter tires matter more than drivetrain alone.
6. Total cost: Factor fuel (or electricity), maintenance, tires, and potential suspension or 4×4 service when comparing.

Matching the platform to your real driving profile—rather than the badge—yields the best long-term satisfaction.

The bottom line

Construction is the key difference: body-on-frame for traditional SUVs, unibody for crossovers. In practice, crossovers deliver better efficiency and comfort for everyday life, while true SUVs are built to tow heavy and endure hard off-road use. Because marketing blurs the labels, check the platform and hardware—not just the styling—before you buy.

Summary

Crossovers are car-based unibody vehicles that prioritize ride quality, efficiency, and space efficiency; traditional SUVs are truck-based body-on-frame models optimized for towing, payload, and rugged off-road durability. Many vehicles marketed as “SUVs” are technically crossovers, and some unibody models add serious off-road capability, so evaluate the platform and equipment against your specific needs.

Which is more comfortable, a SUV or a crossover?

If you’re thinking about purchasing a new car, SUVs vs. crossovers may have come up in your research. For most people, crossovers are going to be the superior choice, as they are much more versatile and are a more comfortable driving experience than SUVs.

Is the RAV4 a crossover or SUV?

The Toyota RAV4 is a crossover SUV. It’s built on a car’s platform (unibody construction) but offers the sport and utility characteristics of an SUV, creating a vehicle that is versatile, agile, and capable for urban and suburban driving.
 
Key distinctions

• SUV vs. Crossover: Opens in new tabTraditional SUVs are built on a truck’s chassis, known as body-on-frame construction, making them heavier and more rugged. In contrast, a crossover is built on a car’s platform, giving it a more car-like ride and handling. 
• RAV4’s classification: Opens in new tabThe RAV4 is a pioneer in the crossover segment and has been a compact crossover SUV since its inception. 

Why this matters to you

• Ride Quality: As a crossover, the RAV4 offers a comfortable and car-like ride, making it pleasant for daily driving and commuting. 
• Versatility: The RAV4 provides a good balance of SUV-like features, such as a higher driving position, available all-wheel-drive, and good cargo space, with the practicality of a car. 
• Maneuverability: Its design on a car platform allows it to be agile and easy to maneuver in city environments and tight parking spaces. 

What is better, a crossover or SUV?

Crossovers provide a car-like driving experience due to better handling, more fuel efficiency and a smoother ride. SUVs have better off-road capabilities, such as four-wheel drive and robust suspension systems. SUVs have lower fuel efficiency due to their size and construction.

What are the disadvantages of a crossover?

The disadvantages of a crossover include limited off-road capability and strength compared to a true SUV, potentially higher costs for powerful engine and AWD options, less commanding visibility than some SUVs, and potentially poor handling and body roll due to a higher center of gravity. They can also be difficult to park in tight urban areas due to their size. 
Vehicle-Related Disadvantages

• Poor Off-Road Performance: Opens in new tabCrossovers are built on car platforms (unibody) and have less ground clearance, limiting their ability on rough terrain compared to true SUVs. 
• Limited Towing and Hauling: Opens in new tabTheir design is not as robust as an SUV’s, making them unsuitable for heavy loads or difficult off-road situations. 
• Higher Costs: Opens in new tabWhile some crossovers come with optional all-wheel-drive, adding this and a powerful engine can make the vehicle more expensive, sometimes more than a similarly capable SUV. 
• Less Capable Than Trucks: Opens in new tabA crossover’s performance can’t compete with a pickup truck, especially when it comes to serious work. 

Handling and Driving Disadvantages 

• Worse Handling and Body Roll: With a higher center of gravity than a sedan, crossovers can experience more body roll and less agile handling, although they are still better than traditional SUVs.
• Parking Difficulties: The larger size of a crossover makes it more challenging to maneuver and park in tight urban spaces.

Other Potential Disadvantages

• Higher Repair Costs: The unibody construction of a crossover can lead to higher repair costs in the event of a collision compared to some other vehicle types. 
• Limited Additional Space: For some, a crossover may not offer significantly more interior space than a well-designed hatchback.