CROSSOVER VS. SUV
Here are the key differences
What Is the Difference Between Crossovers and SUVs?
What Does SUV Stand For?
What Is a Crossover Car?
Unique Platforms
A crossover's body and frame are built in a single piece. This is called unibody construction. This design provides a better ride quality and, because it's lighter, generally achieves better fuel efficiency. Sport-Utility Vehicles, better known as SUVs, use a body-on-frame design. That means the frame and body are built separately and joined together during the manufacturing process. These truck-based vehicles are generally more rugged and can be used to haul larger payloads. That's not to say, however, that you can't tow with a crossover. In fact, the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross, Outlander and Outlander PHEV are all built on unibody platforms and have towing capacities ranging from 1,500 lbs to 2,000 lbs.
They Come in All Sizes
Typically, SUVs - built for rougher terrain - tend to be larger in size, with most models being categorized as either mid-sized or full-sized. Crossovers can be anywhere from subcompact to full-sized. But despite this, manufacturers will often refer to a crossover as a "small-sized SUV" or "compact SUV."
Find Your Perfect Fit
See how the Outlander PHEV dimensions stack up against our other crossovers.
...and Many Different Names
To add to the confusion other terms are also often used to describe crossovers, such as CUV (Crossover Utility Vehicle), SAV (Sport Activity Vehicle) and even the combination "crossover SUV." The important thing to remember is that, here, the difference is strictly in the naming.
AWD or 4WD Versatility
The Similarities
Despite their differences, SUVs and crossovers have much in common. Both have a raised ground clearance, giving drivers a higher vantage point over other cars; both provide ample interior space, which makes them a popular choice with families looking to avoid the minivan option; and both bring the cargo area into the cabin itself, doing away with a separated trunk.
Safety Is Top of Mind
Crossovers and SUVs are known to provide exceptional safety, both on- and off-road. In addition to a host of standard safety features, all Mitsubishi crossovers have built-in crumple zones that help route and absorb energy in the event of a high-impact collision. This RISE body construction (Mitsubishi's advanced Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution) helps give each Mitsubishi crossover a stable, secure base that's worth its weight in safety.
Making the Right Decision
Crossovers get their name for crossing the best traits of a car (convenience and efficiency) with the best traits of an SUV (versatility and practicality). But in essence, whether you call them crossovers or SUVs, what matters is that the vehicle you choose both meets your needs and fits your budget.
Check out Mitsubishi's current lineup of crossover vehicles to find your perfect fit.
¹ Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price. Excludes destination/handling, tax, title, license, dealer charges, and options. While supplies last. Limited availability at participating dealers may require placing an order and could cause a delay in delivery. Retailer price, terms and vehicle availability may vary. See your local Mitsubishi retailer for details.
² Available feature. Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) adds Active Yaw Control (AYC) to realize the AWC concept at a very high level. While this Integrated Vehicle Dynamics Control System manages the driving forces and braking forces of the four wheels to help realize vehicle behavior that is faithful to the operation by the driver under a variety of driving conditions, it is not a substitute for careful driving. S-AWC cannot prevent collisions or loss of traction in all conditions. Exercise caution so your full attention is given to vehicle operation in all road conditions.