SUVs vs. Sedans – Advantages and Disadvantages

SUVs and sedans are the two bestselling types of vehicles in North America today. If you’re in the market for a new car, it’s likely that you’ll be going for one of these. What you need to consider is which one of these types works better for you. We’ve listed down the pros and cons of each to help you decide.

Sedans

The most significant benefit of sedans is that they’re easy to drive. They’re especially easy on city roads. They’re also quite low to the ground, so getting in and out of them is simple. Another advantage of low ground clearance is a low center of gravity. This makes them more stable and reduces the risk of them rolling over. So in that way, they’re safer than SUVs. Because sedans are lighter and powered by smaller engines, they’re also way more fuel-efficient than SUVs. They’ll seat up to five across two rows comfortably. The trunk, with its lockable lid, is separate from the passenger cabin and offers privacy. However, sedans aren’t as spacious as SUVs in terms of passenger space and cargo space. They aren’t useful for hauling or towing either. Their low ground clearance also makes them ill-suited for any off-road driving. The low seating position limits the driver’s visibility.

SUVs

SUVs are more popular than sedans today. Most can seat between five and eight people in comfort across two or three rows. Their high seating position also offers excellent visibility. Traditional body-on-frame SUVs have powerful engines and are excellent for hauling and towing. Their high ground clearance and four-wheel drive also make them excellent off-road. Even CUVs or crossovers that are clubbed in with SUVs today are very comfortable and practical. They are more fuel-efficient than traditional SUVs but as rugged because of their car-like platforms. But SUVs are difficult to get in and out of thanks to their high ground clearance. Their higher center of gravity makes them easier to roll too. Their size makes them difficult to park and maneuver. They also aren’t fuel-efficient and are targeted by environmental groups as being the most polluting of all cars.

So, which one of these, sedan or SUV, is the best car for you?