If you’ve been shopping for a new car lately, you’ve probably come across countless cars, crossovers, and SUVs. With so much overlap between each classification, though, how can you tell the difference? Is there really that much of a difference between a car and crossover, or a crossover and SUV? The short answer is that yes, each is a totally different style, despite the language used. Keep reading for the differences explained in detail.

Starting with the vehicle that’s been around for the longest, a modern car is built with a unibody construction. Although the original car, the Model T, was built with a separate body and frame, modern automakers embraced the unibody build to cut weight. A single body and frame cuts down on weight, increases handling, and allows for better MPG. Today’s cars often fall into two categories: sedans and coupes. Two-door sedans provide more room with four doors, while coupes are the sportier two-door version. A few examples of Subaru cars are the WRX and Legacy, although they do have some of the characteristics of a crossover or SUV.

Unlike cars, SUVs are built more like trucks: with a separate body on a stand-alone frame. This build gives them their distinctive high stance. Despite adding weight, the benefit of body-on-frame construction adds more durability, towing capacity, and off-road capabilities. Because the body and frame are build separately, they can also be less expensive to repair. Although there are few actual SUVs in production, they remain a popular choice despite their drawbacks.

Often listed as a compact SUV or crossover SUV, crossovers are distinct from sports utility vehicles. Crossovers often get classified as in the SUV category because of their size, styling, and utility, although they’re an entirely different vehicle of their own. Instead of body-on-frame construction, crossovers are built more like a car with a unibody build. With their growing popularity, they combine the best of both worlds with lighter weight, more cargo and passenger room, and better fuel economy. A few examples include the Subaru Crosstrek, with advanced off-road capability in a compact yet sporty design.

Do you want to see the differences between a car, crossover, and SUV for yourself? Come and check out the selection of new and used vehicles at Twin Falls Subaru! Try a few out for yourself, then drive away in your next vehicle. You can also view our online inventory, and be sure to contact us for more information if anything catches your eye.