Understanding SUV Cars – For automotive enthusiasts, of course they have their own assessment of whether or not an automotive product is good, be it a two-wheeled vehicle or a four-wheeled vehicle, and so on. They are automotive enthusiasts who certainly demand the automotive industry to increasingly provide the best quality of their products.
In this case, four-wheeled vehicles are increasingly needed considering that people’s daily activities require good and durable private vehicles to be used in their various daily activities.
The presence of an SUV type car is a solution for consumers who want to have a family car that has a cool design but also has good quality for traveling to remote places and poor road access.
The SUV type itself is a combination of passenger and off-road types. Therefore, an SUV is not only suitable for driving on urban roads, but also durable on rough terrain, such as rocky roads. The features of an SUV include the presence of a spare tire at the rear of the car and the use of a four WD (Four Wheels Drive) system.
The WD drive system is equipped with all of the SUV’s wheels that can operate autonomously so the SUV can tackle even the most difficult terrain. This is what distinguishes an SUV from an MPV in terms of strength.
Jeeps are a type of SUV type car designed to traverse all terrain, jeeps have a higher ground clearance and larger tires than MPV cars and usually only have 2 rows of seats or seat only 5 passengers, although currently there are cars with 7 seats.
In terms of engine capacity, the engine capacity of this car is more than 1500 cc which allows this car to pass through some quite heavy roads.
However, do you know what is meant by the SUV itself? If you want to find out more about SUVs, in this discussion, we have reviewed information about SUVs, complete with their functions, types, and advantages and disadvantages.
Furthermore, the discussion has been presented and can be listened to below!
What is an SUV Car?
Sport Utility Vehicle (Indonesian: Sport utility vehicle), abbreviated SUV or nicknamed Bemo, is a classification of passenger cars, but built on a light truck body. In Indonesia, this type of car is often called a “jeep car”. In fact, Jeep is the first American SUV brand in the world, namely “Jeep”.
In general, cars classified as SUVs are equipped with wheel drive (4×4), so they can be used for off-roading. However, many SUVs in Indonesia are not equipped with four-wheel drive (4×4). SUV brands equipped with all-moving tires (4×4) include the Toyota Land Cruiser, Jeep Wrangler, several versions of the Toyota Fortuner and Mitsubishi Pajero Sport, etc.
A distinctive feature of an SUV is that it usually has a spare tire at the rear and has a high ground clearance. The term SUV, by definition, is synonymous with multi-car, a vehicle characterized by large bodies and very powerful engines.
The design of this SUV itself is also generally sportier, with solid body curves that give the impression of hardiness and durability when driving on off-road and urban streets.
Meanwhile, the engine capacity is more than 1500 cc with medium displacement, wide trunk, more complete comfort features than MPV and sturdy suspension that dampens vibrations to the maximum when driving on steep and bumpy roads.
Of course, fully supported by fierce specifications, the price of this SUV is considered much higher than the MPV. It can even reach billions of rupiah.
SUV Car Characteristics
1. Strong Chassis Based on the SUV concept
As a durable vehicle, the chassis used by this SUV is of course also very strong.
Integrated into the ladder chassis and monocoque combination, allowing it to withstand maximum loads while maintaining the taller hull appearance. SUVs usually have a one-size-fits-all chassis and suspension. Also, some types, such as those that support off-road driving, tend to have stiffer axles that improve off-road capability.
2.Ground clearance
Conversely, the ground clearance or the lowest distance of an SUV is also on average higher than that of an MPV, which usually reaches 210 mm in height. This is of course a support so that the bottom of this car is safer when driving in mountainous or rural terrain that is steep and rocky.
3. Large Diameter Tires
Also, SUVs usually have tire diameters of 15-17 inches or more. In addition, the wheels of SUVs are usually covered with high-profile tires, which makes them durable and have a stronger grip. Ideal for target terrain when traveling on rough terrain or off-road.
4. Relatively large body dimensions
As a car that gives an agile impression, the body dimensions of this jeep are naturally designed with long, thick, large and masculine.
This is certainly the hallmark of an SUV as a sports vehicle that gives the impression that it is ready to hit various road surfaces that it drives.
In fact, the size of the body provides a much more optimal balance, which is not easy to balance when driving at high speeds.
5. Big Fender
The next SUV has a face with a large and dignified fender.
The use of such a large fender certainly makes the visual image of this SUV even taller and more striking.
6. Spacious Cabin and Tough Suspension
Tough cars, including SUVs, are said to have a spacious and flexible passenger space to ensure comfort for their passengers.
In fact, don’t forget that the suspension it uses is also very hard, and the relatively high shock absorption ensures maximum stability.
Types of SUVs
1. Compact SUVs
Compact SUVs are commonly known as low SUVs or mini SUVs. In general, the dimensions and power are relatively smaller than other types of SUVs.
Cars equipped with this type of compact SUV are usually designed for everyday use on city streets. Some of the cars included in this type are Daihatsu Terios, Nissan Juke, Toyota Rush, Ford Ecosport and Honda HV-R.
2. Medium SUVs
Medium SUV engine dimensions and power are usually larger than compact SUVs. Its rather large dimensions make the car’s interior much more comfortable and seem lighter. Several medium-size SUVs include the Nissan X-Trail, Mitsubishi Pajero, Mazda CX-5 and Toyota Fortuner.
3. Luxury SUVs
Enter the third type of SUV, namely the luxury SUV. This type prioritizes the beauty of car design, the latest technology and passenger comfort. Brands in the luxury SUV category include Range Rover Sport, Land Rover Discovery, Porsche Cayenne and Audi Q7.
4. Full-size SUV
The last type is the full-size SUV, or what is commonly called the “true SUV”. This type of full size SUV has high power and a very economical engine that requires a lot of fuel consumption. Some of the cars that fall into the full-size SUV category include the Toyota Sequoia, Nissan Armada, GMC Yukon, and Chevrolet Suburban.
Main Functions of SUV Cars
The main task of this type of car is to transport various types of terrain. From the smooth streets of the capital to steep and difficult roads. So do not be surprised if this car is usually used for various purposes. Or as a family car or SUV.
Another interesting function of this car is as a tow truck. So if you have a friend whose car is damaged, you can bring him along with the Daihatsu SUV.
If you want to use your SUV as a crane, you have to be a little careful. Especially if you want corners. Take extra care when driving. If you rush, you will cause the towed car to overturn and crash.
Advantages of SUVs
SUV type car has many advantages beyond its kind. Some of them are as follows:
1. Can move in various types of terrain
This is the main advantage of an SUV. From the start, SUVs were designed to drive on various types of terrain. From smooth roads, potholes, inclines, steep and rocky. Suitable for road conditions in Indonesia which are not completely flat.
2. Able to transport passengers comfortably
Apart from being difficult on different terrains, SUVs also make passengers comfortable when the car is moving. It is indistinguishable from a car seat designed in this way. So do not be surprised if this car is usually used as a family car.
3. Holds a lot of stuff
The advantage of this SUV also lies in its large trunk. This allows friends to transport goods in large quantities. However, you still need to be careful when storing goods in the SUV.
It is advisable to store things right in the SUV garage. If necessary, tie the objects with string. This is done so that the object does not jump when the car brakes suddenly.
One type of car that is currently popular is the Sport Utility Vehicle. This car is like an off-roader, but with a sporty accent. This car can be an option for friends who want to buy a special family car or a car that drives on difficult roads.
Lack of SUVs
Every car is designed for different needs and driving styles, so no car is perfect, including SUVs. However, there are some drawbacks that need to be considered even if you want to recommend an SUV. Here are some of the disadvantages of SUVs that you should know about.
1. Adjusting Car Dimensions
The large dimensions of an SUV can indeed be an advantage, but it can also be a disadvantage for those who are not used to driving it. You will need some adjustments when driving the Jeep to get used to riding the larger frame.
Big cars can also be a problem for city drivers. This is because cars cannot move freely on the streets of the capital, for example, during traffic jams. For those who are used to driving a compact car, it will definitely take longer to get used to it.
2. No Fuel Efficient
SUVs usually have high-powered engines that support the car’s efficiency when facing various road challenges. However, the large engine capacity makes fuel consumption more extravagant.
Fuel consumption is an important aspect when choosing a car, so that refueling the vehicle does not become a burden in the future, so that the car remains little used and neglected.
Tips for Buying an SUV
If you are confused and want to know more about what to pay attention to when buying the latest SUV, here are some tips for choosing the best SUV so you don’t lose out.
1. Find out the intended use
In fact, when choosing a car, the most important thing is knowing the needs or purpose of using the car purchased. Not only limited to the type of car you need, but more on the SUV you will buy, what you will use it for later. These needs will later become the basis when you choose the size of the SUV, what features it has, how much power and at what price.
The SUV you want to use every day is different from the SUV you want to use for mountains and rough terrain. Buying a large-powered and not fuel-efficient SUV for rough terrain is very counterproductive if it is used for daily mobility needs in the city.
2. Find the Right SUV Size
SUVs generally come in three categories: compact, mid-size, and full-size. True to their size, each serves its own purpose for the best possible use. If the size does not meet your usage needs, it is obviously not comfortable to wear.
For example, a compact SUV is suitable for everyday transportation. The operating system and available features are generally not too complicated, one might even say simple. Many call it a compact SUV because of its sporty nature, but it is more suitable for city driving, asphalt or less extreme terrain. If you want a passenger car, you can choose a 7-seater SUV. It’s different with mid-size and full-size SUVs. These two categories are usually large and strong to support heavy off-road terrain.
3. Pay attention to the characteristics
When choosing the best SUV, you must also pay attention to the characteristics of the SUV. Generally, the items offered are comparable to the variants and prices. However, each version has standard feature benchmarks.
When choosing the best SUV, you can easily look for one with the most complete features. Notable features include ride comfort and safety features. Driving comfort features make you feel at home in the middle of a trip, while safety features help minimize the possibility of an accident.
4. Choose the right machine
When choosing an SUV, the most powerful engine is not always synonymous with the best SUV. Engine capacity is closely related to fuel and maintenance costs. High-powered engines require a lot of fuel, maintenance costs are even higher. Again, you have to adapt to your needs.
If your needs are limited to daily city traffic and the occasional out-of-town escape, a mid-size or compact SUV will likely suffice. In general, these two versions only use the engine or 6 cylinders. Full-size SUVs usually have 8 cylinders. Cylinder engines are slightly less expensive to maintain than engines with large cylinders.
5. Compare car prices based on all aspects
The most expensive is not necessarily the best. The high price of a car could be due to the quality, features or popularity of the brand. Therefore, choosing an SUV that fits your budget is the best way. You don’t have to force yourself to buy an expensive car just because it’s a well-known brand. Many well-known brands have the same qualities as less well-known brands or even new brands.
First, pay close attention to the four points above, then compare the type of SUV that you are interested in. Check one by one whether the price offered is good enough or too expensive. Remember that cheaper doesn’t always mean lower quality.
Conclusion
That’s all for a brief discussion of what an SUV is: Characteristics, types, and their advantages and disadvantages. Not only knowing what an SUV is, but also discussing the advantages, disadvantages, tips for buying it and knowing the types of cars on the market.
Knowing what an SUV is for automotive lovers is very useful in knowing the right type of four-wheeled vehicle to become a family car at a low price and suitable for use on rough terrain when you want to travel far.