SUV

An SUV (Sport Utility Vehicle [spɔɹt juːˈtɪlɪti ˈviək parfoisl]), sometimes called SUV is a versatile family hatchback automobile, with a raised and bulky body, which can have capacities of off-road or high towing.

At the end of the 20th century, the sales volume of this automobile segment took off in the United States, then in Europe at the beginning of the 21st century.

Despite their success, they are the subject of a number of controversies, particularly on aspects of safety, pollution, greenhouse gas emissions and congestion. They cause a false sense of protection while reducing the visibility of more vulnerable road users, thus increasing the induced mortality. Their dimensions imply an increased consumption of raw materials and embodied energy for their manufacture, then a consumption of fuel and higher emissions during use. As such, they are the second cause of increase in CO2 emissions in the world between 2010 and 2018.

SUVs are mainly characterized by their hatchback shape, inspired by station wagons, their height and large volume. Compared to other types of motor vehicles of the same size, the interior space is often more important and makes it possible to transport fairly large objects as well as to travel with the family, like a minivan or an MPV. Caradisiac thus measures in 2020 a gain in boot volume of + 20% on five-seater models and + 16% on two-seater models, while comfort is improved by +6 mm of space for the knees and +1.7 to +3 cm for the head. Access on board is easier than that of sedans or station wagons, which are often too low for people with reduced mobility or the elderly. Some SUVs, like their off-road ancestors, have off-road capabilities and are equipped with four-wheel drive and electronic devices to promote progress over difficult terrain. Some large SUVs are also capable of towing loads of several tons, sometimes exceeding their empty mass by more than once. However, SUVs are still mostly used on the road. Their road behavior is more and more similar to that of sedans; This is evidenced by crossovers, a new category located between the two previous ones, which generally only have two-wheel drive.

In terms of engines, SUVs are most often equipped with heat engines, but some models are equipped with electric propulsion and others are plug-in hybrid vehicles. Their performance is a victim of their weight, larger rims and aerodynamics.

Exemple: Cadillac Escalade, Bentley Bentayga, Lamborghini Urus, Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8, Porsche Cayenne Turbo GT, Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross, etc.