The SUV, or Sports Utility Vehicle, has become an emblematic presence on the roads of the United Kingdom. These versatile vehicles have evolved significantly since their inception, encompassing a wide range of sizes and styles to cater to diverse consumer preferences. In this article, we will delve into the history of SUVs, define what an SUV is, explore the various types available, weigh their pros and cons, and discuss the benefits of subscribing to an SUV with Cocoon Vehicles.
Birth of the SUV with the Original Land Rover
The journey of the SUV began with the iconic Land Rover. In 1948, the British automaker Rover introduced the first Land Rover, often dubbed the “Series I.” Designed for agricultural and utilitarian purposes, it possessed off-road capabilities and durability that made it an immediate success. This robust, go-anywhere vehicle set the foundation for the SUV category, characterized by its four-wheel drive and rugged design.
Defining an SUV
An SUV is a multipurpose vehicle that combines elements of both car and truck, key defining features of an SUV include:
Off-Road Capability
SUV’s typically have four-wheel drive or all-wheel drive systems, it helps them enable them to tackle various terrains, from city streets to muddy trails. Some of the latest SUV’s may now feature 2wd to cut down on fuel-consumption and costs.
Higher Ground Clearance
SUV’s sit higher than traditional cars, providing better visibility and the ability to handle rough terrain more effectively.
Spacious Interiors
Most SUV”s offer generous interior space, making them ideal for families or individuals with a need for cargo capacity. Some have additional features to slide the middle seats to provide extra boot space.
Versatile Seating
SUV’s often offer flexible seating arrangements, allowing for extra passenger seating (7/8 seats) or expanding cargo space as needed. They also provide good leg room on the rear seats, as the middle bench will usually sit higher than normal.
Towing Capacity
Many SUV’s offer impressive towing capabilities, especially vehicles such as the Land Rover Defender. This makes them ideal for pulling caravans, trailers and even boats.
Different Types of SUV’s
SUV’s come in all shapes and sizes to cater for different preferences and requirements, these include:
Small SUVs
Also known as compact SUV’s, these vehicles are smaller in sixe, making them well-suited for urban driving and offering improved efficiency. Examples of small SUV’s include:
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Peugeot 2008 -
Nissan Juke -
Volkswagen T-Roc/T-Cross -
Audi Q2 -
Mercedes GLA/EQA
Midsize SUVs
Midsize SUVs strike a balance between a small car and standard SUVs, providing ample space for passengers and a great cargo area without being too big. Examples of Midsize SUV’s include:
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Peugeot 3008 -
Nissan Qashqai -
Volkswagen Tiguan -
Audi Q5 -
Mercedes GLC/EQC -
BMW X1/X3 -
Maserati Grecale
Standard SUVs
These are traditional SUV’s as they started off, known for their spaciousness, towing capacity and off-road capabilities. Examples of these include:
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Audi Q7 -
BMW X5/X6 -
Jaguar F-Pace -
Range Rover Sport -
Land Rover DIscovery -
Mercedes-Benz GLE -
Volkswagen Touareg
Large Premium SUVs
With SUV’s becoming more popular, many of the manufacturers have jumped on the back of the Range Rover success and created their own luxury SUV range, these vehicles offer comfort, cutting-edge technology and powerful performance, they appeal to those seeking a premium driving experience, examples of these include:
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Audi Q8 -
BMW X7 -
Land Rover Defender -
Range Rover -
Maserati Levante -
Mercedes-Benz GLS -
Bentley Bentayga -
Aston Martin DBX -
Rolls-Royce Cullinan
Pro’s and Con’s of SUV’s
Like all vehicle types, SUV’s have their advantages and disadvantages, here are a few:
Pros:
Versatility
SUVs are highly versatilite, capable of handling various road conditions and carry both passengers and cargo.
Safety
With SUV’s being more upright and higher, this often translates into better safety and crash protection.
Towing Capacity
Many of the larger SUV’s offer great towing capacity which makes them suitable for towing caravans or trailers.
All-Weather Capability
SUVs with an all-wheel drive system are suited to most adverse weather including snow. This makes them ideal for an all-year round drive.
Commanding View
The elevated driving position provides an excellent view of the road, which many of our customers love.
Electric SUVs
More and more manufacturers are producing their SUV’s as pure electric vehicles with models being launched on a regular basis.
Cons:
Fuel Efficiency
SUVs tend to use more fuel than convential cars, this can be down to the weight and the aerodynamics (or lack of) of the vehicle.
Environmental Impact
Larger SUVs contribute to greater carbon emissions, making them less environmentally friendly. Some climate protesters are purposely targeting SUVs by slashing tyres, so be mindful.
Parking Challenges
The size of the vehicles can make parking difficult, especially as cars are growing in size but car parking space sizes remain static. Multi-storey car parks may also prove a pain due to height restrictions.
Handling
SUVs may not handle the road as well as conventional cars due to their higher centre of gravity.
Initial Costs
Many of the latest SUVs come with a higher price tag than traditional cars, at the moment the benefit is that residual values are currently very good and some models hold their money very well.
Subscribing to an SUV with Cocoon
Leasing an SUV with Cocoon Vehicles has several benefits including:
Affordability
With low initial outlay, car subscriptions can provide an affordable way to get on the road without having to put too much money down. Plus you pay one payment that covers all the motoring essentials, you just need to provide the fuel and the insurance.
Maintenance
Maintenance is included in the majority of the car subscriptions from Cocoon Vehicles, covering servicing and other items to keep your car on the road.
Breakdown Assistance
Manufacturers Breakdown assistance is included with all of the vehicles from Cocoon Vehicles. Covering you for any unforseen faults that need roadside assistance.
Manufacturers Warranty
Manufacturers warranty is included with all of the vehicles covering for any rare faults that the vehicle may have. All you need to do is take it in to your local franchised dealer to sort.
Flexibility
Thie biggest advantage of a car subscription is the flexibility, we ask for a minimum commitment of 1-month but you can unlock our best prices by taking the vehicle for 90 days or more. You only ever pay for the time in the vehicle.
Access to Premium SUVs
Cocoon Vehicles offers a fantastic range of premium SUVs available on both our flexible car subscription service and our short-term car lease contracts. This allows you to experience the latest vehicles and their advanced features.
Leasing an SUV
Whilst we specialise in short-term solutions, we also offer a FIND A CAR LEASE service for those looking for 2/3/4 year car leases. We compare prices with no less than 12 different funders to help you find the best car deal in the marketplace without having to go from website-to-website. It is free to use and you are under no obligation to go ahead.
More Information
The SUV has come a long way since its inception. Today these vehicles are one of the most popular bodytypes in the UK when it comes to customers looking at a new car. From compact crossovers to luxury SUVs, they suit a wide variety of lifestyles and preferences.
While SUVs have their Pros and Cons, subscribing to an SUV with Cocoon Vehicles can provide a flexible and convenient way to enjoy the benefits of these versatile vehicles, without the long-term commitment of a 2/3 year car lease or outright purchase.
For more information on any SUVs or the services that we offer, please contact the team on 01332 290173 or use the ENQUIRY FORM at the bottom of this guide.
