Crossovers and SUVs in Roanoke, VA

Crossovers and SUVs can look remarkably similar from the driver's seat. Both can offer elevated seating positions, flexible cargo areas, available all-wheel drive, and room for passengers and gear. Underneath, however, their construction can be different.

At Berglund Used Car Supercenter in Roanoke, VA, shoppers can compare pre-owned crossovers and pre-owned SUVs from multiple manufacturers. Understanding the difference between a crossover and an SUV can help you narrow your search based on comfort, capability, cargo needs, and everyday driving.

What Is the Difference Between a Crossover and an SUV?

Traditionally, the biggest distinction is vehicle construction. A crossover generally uses unibody construction, meaning the body and underlying structure are integrated. Many traditional SUVs use body-on-frame construction, with the vehicle body mounted to a separate frame. That distinction is not absolute. The terms "crossover" and "SUV" are often used interchangeably, and many vehicles marketed as SUVs use unibody construction. Instead of relying entirely on the name, compare the vehicle's construction, drivetrain, towing capacity, dimensions, ground clearance, and other specifications.

How Does Crossover Construction Affect Driving?

Because most crossovers use unibody construction, they tend to share some driving characteristics with passenger cars. Depending on the model, that can mean manageable dimensions, a comfortable ride, and handling suited to commuting and everyday errands.

Common crossover characteristics can include:

• Unibody construction: Integrates the body and underlying structure
• Passenger-focused design: Often emphasizes cabin comfort and everyday usability
• Flexible cargo space: Folding rear seats can expand room for larger items
• Available all-wheel drive: Adds traction capability on many models
• Multiple sizes: Options range from subcompact models to larger three-row vehicles

Actual features and driving characteristics vary considerably by make, model, model year, and configuration.

What Makes a Traditional SUV Different?

A traditional SUV with body-on-frame construction shares its basic structural approach with many pickup trucks. This design can suit vehicles intended for demanding towing, hauling, or off-pavement use. That does not mean every body-on-frame SUV has the same capability. Engine, transmission, axle ratio, drivetrain, suspension, cooling equipment, tires, and other components can all affect what a specific vehicle can do. Some SUVs also provide three-row seating, substantial cargo capacity, four-wheel drive, and specialized terrain equipment. Check the specifications for the individual vehicle rather than assuming capability based on body style alone.

Crossover vs SUV Towing Capacity

If you plan to tow, compare actual towing capacity rather than choosing a vehicle simply because it's labeled an SUV. Crossovers can offer useful towing capability, while some traditional SUVs are engineered for heavier trailers.

Five details deserve attention when comparing vehicles for towing:

• Maximum towing capacity: Check the rating for the exact configuration
• Trailer weight: Account for the trailer and everything loaded into it
• Payload capacity: Passengers, cargo, and hitch weight contribute to vehicle load
• Required equipment: Maximum ratings may require specific towing equipment
• Drivetrain configuration: Engine, transmission, and drivetrain choices can affect ratings

Always follow the vehicle manufacturer's towing instructions and weight limits.

Crossover and SUV Cargo Space

Both vehicle types can be practical cargo carriers, but exterior size does not tell the whole story. Check cargo volume behind the rear seats if you regularly travel with passengers. If you frequently carry furniture, recreation equipment, or home-improvement supplies, compare maximum cargo space with the rear seats folded. Also look at the cargo area's shape, lift-over height, rear-seat folding arrangement, underfloor storage, and available cargo-management features. A vehicle with slightly less total volume may still work better if its cargo area fits the items you regularly carry.

All-Wheel Drive vs Four-Wheel Drive

Drivetrain is another area where crossovers and traditional SUVs can differ. Many crossovers offer all-wheel drive, while traditional SUVs may offer four-wheel drive. All-wheel-drive systems can automatically distribute power among the wheels based on the system's design and detected conditions. Four-wheel-drive systems vary, but some provide driver-selectable settings intended for low-traction or off-pavement situations. Neither term tells you everything about capability. Compare the specific system, ground clearance, tires, drive modes, and manufacturer recommendations for the vehicle you are considering.

Choosing Between a Pre-Owned Crossover or Pre-Owned SUV

Your daily routine can help determine whether a pre-owned crossover or pre-owned SUV fits better. Consider:

• Passenger needs: Think about how many people you regularly carry
• Cargo space: Consider groceries, luggage, sports equipment, pets, and other gear
• Daily driving: A crossover may prioritize maneuverability and passenger comfort
• Towing and hauling: Some SUVs offer greater capability for trailers and heavier loads
• Road conditions: Consider whether your driving includes pavement, rough roads, or off-pavement travel

Because the categories overlap, compare each vehicle's actual specifications, features, and capabilities instead of choosing based on the crossover or SUV label alone.

Compare Crossovers and SUVs at Berglund Used Car Supercenter

Shopping at Berglund Used Car Supercenter in Roanoke, VA, lets you compare pre-owned crossovers and pre-owned SUVs from different manufacturers in one place.

Pay attention to construction, passenger capacity, cargo space, drivetrain, towing ratings, and everyday driving characteristics. Once those priorities are clear, the difference between a crossover and an SUV becomes less about terminology and more about finding the vehicle configuration that works for your life.

*Disclaimer: This content was drafted with AI assistance for initial drafting, reviewed by a subject-matter expert for accuracy, and edited by our team of writers and editors.