Are Cars, SUVs and Crossover the Same Thing?

What’s the Difference Between a Car, Crossover and SUV?

In the auto industry, we have a bunch of terms to refer to different types of vehicles. You may refer to the vast majority of vehicles as just “cars.” Though that nomenclature is certainly widely accepted, more technically speaking, it isn’t always the most accurate term to use.

That’s because the auto industry uses specific terms to refer to specific vehicles. A car or sedan is one type, while crossovers are another, and SUVS are still another type. What is the difference between all of these? That’s the question we’re going to answer here.

[Read more: The Best hidden Features In Your Subaru]

Is an SUV a Car?

As mentioned, it isn’t uncommon to refer to the majority of vehicles as “cars” instead of “vehicles.” In the auto industry, however, a car is something a little bit more specific.

See, “car” usually refers to a sedan, which is a vehicle containing a three-box configuration with compartments that separate the areas for the engine, passengers/driver and cargo (the trunk). This often comes with four doors, though coupe models may come with only two.

What Cars Does Subaru Sell?

Many auto manufacturers no longer sell cars or sedans these days. Even those that two have greatly slimmed down their options. Today, Subaru sells two car options.

The first is the Impreza compact sedan (2023 model MSRP starts at $19,795). The larger Legacy midsize sedan is also available (2023 MSRP starting at $24,395). Additionally, Subaru offers two performance cars, the BRZ (2023 MSRP starting at $28,595) and the WRX (2022 MSRP starting at $29,605). Like many cars, these models are designed to offer affordable transportation that prioritizes efficiency and sporty performance.

SUV vs Crossover

An even more confusing term is “crossover,” specifically when comparing the difference between a crossover and an SUV. But, there definitely are differences between the models.

The easiest way to think about this difference is to think of crossovers as being smaller SUV. Crossovers, as the name suggests, are a cross between cars and SUVs. They have the liftgate design of an SUV and similar AWD/performance capabilities, but they are less bulky and more efficient. SUVs, on the other hand, are sometimes built more like pickup trucks except for the fact that their cargo area is enclosed within the vehicle. They are less efficient but provide more power and space than a crossover.

Subaru SUVs and Crossovers

It’s tough to say where the line is drawn between a crossover and an SUV, but Subaru offers five vehicles that fall within this spectrum. The Crosstrek is the smallest of the group (2023 starting MSRP of $23,645), while the Forester (2023 MSRP $26,395) and Outback (2023 MSRP $28,395) command the middle ground between a small crossover and larger SUV. The Solterra is the brand new electric crossover from Subaru (2023 MSRP $44,995), while the Ascent is the true SUV out of the bunch (2023 MSRP $33,895).

When shopping for a new vehicle, you’re likely to see these terms thrown around. At Ewing Subaru of Plano, we recommend worrying less about what kind of vehicle it is and thinking more about whether or not the model sufficiently meets your driving needs. To learn more, contact us here at the dealership.