SUVs Are All The Rage

Traditionally hatchbacks, sedans, and estates have been the most popular car models with drivers, but it seems like that is changing.

Credit: Porsche

So what are the reasons for the recent growth in popularity of SUVs?

Practicality

Most SUVs are designed to be practical and spacious. With the high roof, low floor, and extended rear, SUVs offer the same utilitarian capabilities that is comparable to a boxy seven-seater people mover with its headroom, legroom, and storage space. Also, with a higher ride height, short sills and, taller doors, it means driver and passengers alike would have ease of ingress and egress.

Ease of Driving

The higher ride height of an SUV is certainly a boon when driving it, as it provides a buffer of sorts from potholes and kerbs. Combined with better suspensions that are built to withstand bumpy or rugged surfaces, “shocks” to the vehicle’s bodywork is mitigated. Such are the excellent driving capabilities of SUVs, they can be driven on most terrains; good or bad they take them all pretty much in their stride.

Better Technology and Safety

With the advancement of engine technology, SUVs are no longer the fuel guzzlers they once were, and this equates to better mileage. Safety is also a big draw when you buy an SUV, due to its stockier build as compared to other vehicle classes. In addition, driving an SUV would most certainly be a treat, with its high seating position that allows excellent all-round visibility. And just like other modern cars, the manufacturers have also included the likes of blind spot warning, automatic emergency braking, rear cameras, and more in their SUVs for added safety.

Stylish and Able To Perform

Performance car manufacturers have also jumped on the SUV bandwagon, and have created SUV models that offers drivers the thrill from driving. Case in point a Porsche Cayenne that has 349 in horsepower and does zero to 100 in 6.2 seconds. In addition, these SUVs share some design cues with their coupe and sedan siblings, which equate to a silhouette that shouts of sportiness and style.

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Audi Q5

The new second generation Audi Q5 SUV features a new platform, engine, transmission, and an all-wheel drive system that is lighter than before. Slightly longer and a couple of inches wider than before, the new Q5's platform was derived from the Audi A4 sedan, and is structurally more rigidity, as it uses more aluminum for it chassis.

Audi Q7

The Q7 is to date Audi’s largest SUV that seats seven. With its sophisticated suspension, relatively low centre of gravity, and all-wheel-drive system, the Q7 is exceptional for being a nimble performer, yet at the same time offers exceptional comfort with its luxurious interior and remarkable ride quality.

Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class

Combining the attributes of a hatchback and a crossover, the Mercedes-Benz GLA is an entry level luxury SUV, with its platform based on the CLA sedan. Characterised by its dynamic design and nimbleness, the GLA brings a breath of fresh air to its market segment with its expressive design, obvious SUV character, and technical performance.

Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class SUV

The Mercedes-Benz GLC SUV exudes dynamicism and vitality, reflecting the driver’s active lifestyle. Combining a stylish exterior, intelligent features, excellent comfort, outstanding all-round performance, and best-in-class safety features, the GLC is the SUV you always wanted.

Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class Coupè

Just like the regular GLC, the Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe offers the same excellent balance of performance, luxury and comfort as the regular GLC, but with an even more sportier exterior due to its "coupe" styled design, with its sloping roof line that tapers off towards the rear.

Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class Coupè

The GLE Coupe is based on Mercedes-Benz GLE but with a more stylish exterior. What Mercedes-Benz has done was to chop off a good portion of the vehicle’s rear in a bid to create a “coupe” like profile, contributing to the creation of a sleeker, more distinctive-looking vehicle than its original iteration.

Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class SUV

Touted as the S Class of SUVs, the GLS is the flagship model of Mercedes-Benz’s range of SUVs. Able to seat seven comfortably across all three row, the Mercedes-Benz GLS is big, comfortable, and has a road presence that is hard to ignore, a vehicle that will definitely make you feel like a boss on the road.

Porsche Cayenne

With more technology, performance, and dynamics, the new Cayenne is Porsche’s third edition of its highly popular SUV. With its plush cabin and sportscar-like performance, as well as styling cues akin to that of the Macan and Panamera, the new Cayenne is more precise, elegant, athletic, and expressive than ever.