SUV & Crossover Identification Guide
From compact crossovers to full-size SUVs, learn to identify the most popular vehicle segment.
Identify SUVs & Crossovers
SUV vs. Crossover
SUV (Body-on-Frame): Traditional construction with a separate frame, more rugged, better towing capacity. Examples: Toyota 4Runner, Jeep Wrangler, Ford Expedition.
Crossover (Unibody): Car-based platform, better fuel economy, more car-like handling. Examples: Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Mazda CX-5.
Size Categories
Subcompact Crossovers
- Smallest SUV category
- City-friendly, fuel-efficient
- Examples: Mazda CX-30, Honda HR-V, Hyundai Kona, Kia Soul
Compact Crossovers
- Most popular segment
- Balance of space and efficiency
- Examples: Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Mazda CX-5, Ford Escape
Mid-Size SUVs
- Third-row seating available
- Family-friendly size
- Examples: Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Kia Telluride, Hyundai Palisade
Full-Size SUVs
- Maximum passenger and cargo space
- Strong towing capability
- Examples: Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban, Ford Expedition, Toyota Sequoia
Brand Signatures
- Jeep: Seven-slot grille, rugged styling, round headlights (Wrangler)
- Land Rover: Floating roof design, British elegance, boxy shapes
- BMW: Kidney grille, sporty stance, "X" naming (X3, X5, X7)
- Mercedes: Three-pointed star, "GL" naming, luxurious details
- Toyota: Bold front end, reliability-focused design
Luxury SUV Segment
- Range Rover: Iconic floating roof, premium British luxury
- Porsche Cayenne: Sports car DNA in SUV form
- BMW X5/X7: Sporty handling, German precision
- Mercedes GLE/GLS: S-Class luxury in SUV format
- Lexus LX/GX: Toyota reliability with luxury features