Should I Buy a Sedan or an SUV?

Sedan VS SUV: Quick Overview

Sedan vs. SUV: Basic Understanding

Sedans are small and low ground vehicles with plenty of cargo and passenger space due to their long-form body. They tend to have a lower center of gravity, which makes them easier to maneuver, and are more compact than SUVs, therefore easier to drive on tight city roads and park. Sedans usually come with two-wheel drive, which sends power to either the front or rear wheels, and are designed mainly for smooth paved roads.

An SUV (Sport Utility Vehicle) is a larger passenger vehicle featuring a two-box design. This means that the passenger cabin and the cargo area are connected instead of being separated by a trunk, so there is more room for passengers and cargo. SUVs have bigger ground clearance than sedans, meaning they sit higher off the road, giving off a sense of security.

Design and Style

Design is one of the most visible differences between sedans and SUVs.

Sedans have a lower, streamlined body with a separate trunk. Their lower stance improves aerodynamics and contributes to a more traditional passenger-car appearance. Sedans typically focus on clean, simple styling with an emphasis on comfort and efficiency.

SUVs are taller and more upright in design. Their higher ground clearance and boxier shape give them a stronger, more rugged appearance. SUVs often feature larger wheels, roof rails, and a more commanding road presence.

Passenger Space and Seating

Interior space is another major difference between these body styles.

Sedans have plenty of space for passengers, as well as trunk space for any additional or bulkier items, especially when compared to a coupe or a hatchback. But they are smaller than SUVs, so overall interior space is limited.

SUVs are large vehicles, so they have quite a lot of space for passengers, with some SUVs allowing up to 6 or 7 people, as well as cargo space for plenty of larger items, so they’re ideal for road trips or camping gear. However, within narrow city roads or parking spots, their bulky bodies can sometimes be a disadvantage.

Driving Experience

Sedans and SUVs offer noticeably different driving dynamics.

Sedans sit lower to the ground, which gives them a lower center of gravity. This typically results in smoother handling, better cornering stability, and a more car-like driving experience. They are well-suited for city driving and highway cruising. For most new drivers, a sedan would be much easier to handle on the road than a large SUV.

SUVs provide a higher driving position, giving the driver a better view of the road. While modern SUVs handle well, their taller build can make them feel less agile in tight turns compared to sedans. However, many SUVs offer all-wheel drive (AWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD), which improves traction in snow, mud, or rough terrain. It’s important to note that some studies show that larger vehicles like SUVs are associated with dangerous driving behavior, most likely connected to the sense of security a SUV provides for the driver.

Cost and Insurance

Ownership costs can vary between sedans and SUVs.

Sedans are generally more affordable to purchase and operate. They tend to have better fuel efficiency, lower maintenance costs, and may cost less to insure due to their lower average repair costs.

SUVs come with a higher purchase price. They can also consume more fuel due to their larger size and weight. Insurance premiums may also be higher, especially for larger or luxury SUV models. Even when sedans and SUVs use the same engine, SUVs often consume more fuel because they are heavier and less aerodynamic. For example, the Honda Accord sedan and the Honda CR-V SUV both use a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine, yet the sedan still achieves slightly better fuel economy than the SUV.

Road and Crash Safety

When comparing sedans and SUVs, safety is often a top concern for drivers.

Sedans are generally considered safe vehicles because their lower center of gravity makes them less likely to roll over compared to taller vehicles like SUVs. Their lower design can also help with stability and handling. However, because sedans are usually smaller and lighter than SUVs, they may offer less protection in collisions with larger vehicles.

There is a common misconception that SUVs are always safer in car crashes. While the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has found that larger vehicles like SUVs often perform better in frontal collisions, which are among the deadliest types of crashes, they can also have a higher risk of rollover accidents due to their higher center of gravity.

Ultimately, road and crash safety depends on the make and model as well as the body style of the vehicle.

Sedan vs. SUV: Where Do They Fall Short?

Both body styles offer strong advantages, but each also has certain drawbacks.

Sedan Downsides

Despite their efficiency and comfort, sedans have a few limitations.

• Limited cargo flexibility. The separate trunk limits how much large or irregularly shaped cargo you can carry.
• Lower ground clearance. Sedans sit closer to the ground, making them less suitable for rough roads or deep snow, as well as prone to scraping on uneven roads.
• Less interior versatility. Compared to SUVs, sedans have fewer seating configurations and cargo options.

SUV Downsides

SUVs prioritize space and versatility but may sacrifice some efficiency.

• Higher fuel consumption. Larger engines and heavier weight result in lower fuel economy.
• Higher purchase cost. SUVs cost more than sedans with comparable features.
• More difficult to handle. Their larger size makes parking and maneuvering in tight urban areas more challenging.

Popular Models of Sedans

Recent sales reports show that some of the most popular sedans include:

• Toyota Camry
• Toyota Corolla
• Honda Accord
• Nissan Altima
• Hyundai Sonata

Best-Selling SUVs

Some of the most popular SUVs include:

• Toyota RAV4
• Honda CR-V
• Ford Explorer
• Hyundai Tucson
• Chevrolet Tahoe

Which One Should You Pick?

Pick a sedan if you want a comfortable, easy-going driving experience without sacrificing space. This is especially important if you know you will be driving more on average city roads rather than in rough terrain. Sedans are also a good choice for drivers who want better fuel efficiency and lower overall ownership costs.

Pick an SUV if you want extra cargo space and plan on driving in rough terrain often. SUVs are perfect for experienced drivers or families who need more passenger space and versatility for everyday use, road trips, or outdoor activities. Keep in mind that SUVs generally cost more to own, so you need to make sure that you’re able to keep up with the financial aspect of owning an SUV.

Market Trends

In the US over the last decade, SUV sales have increased by almost 50%, from 33% in 2013. This shows that the automotive market has shifted, with buyers focusing more on SUVs than on other vehicles, including sedans, whose sales have declined. Experts believe this shift may be due to several factors, including the higher driving position SUVs offer, more passenger and cargo space, improved safety technology, and the growing popularity of crossovers that combine SUV practicality with car-like driving.

However, sedans continue to remain popular among buyers, especially in the used car market, since well-made models such as the Toyota Camry tend to hold their value well and are known for their reliability, fuel efficiency, and lower overall ownership costs