6 Reasons To Buy A Crossover

 Before we tell you all the reasons that you should buy a Crossover, we should probably tell you what it technically is. A Crossover is a vehicle built on a car platform using 'unibody' architecture - where the chassis and bodywork have been integrated into one another. Typically, they combine SUV design features such as high ground clearance with traditional car features including lighter-weight materials and more responsive handling.

Also known as Compact SUVs, the Crossover category was created to fill a gap in the market between larger heavy duty SUVs and smaller hatchbacks. For a time, SUVs became the go-to family vehicle; this is now changing as Crossovers offer improved comfort thanks to their car-based platform as opposed to traditional SUVs that were built on the same platform as trucks. Some of the most popular Crossover models on sale at Wilsons include the Nissan Qashqai, Peugeot 3008 SUV and Vauxhall Mokka X.

1. Raised Seating Position

Once you experience the seating position of a Crossover, you won't want to go back (unless perhaps you're behind the wheel of a Supercar). The raised ride height provides you with greater visibility of the road which is more comfortable and not to mention, safer.

The elevated seating position is also perfect for Motability and elderly drivers and passengers. The seats in a Crossover tend to be around hip-height for most people which means less effort to get in and out of the car. Crossovers also have four doors so that passengers in the rear don't have to climb passed the front set of seats to get to their own.

2. Cheaper Than Large SUVs

One thing we're all concerned about when it comes to buying a new car is price and Crossover cars are highly competitive in that area. Entry level models typically start between £13,000 and £16,000 with higher specification models obviously costing more. Having said that, the budget-friendly Dacia Duster is available for under £10,000.

Thanks to their 'unibody' architecture, they are cheaper to manufacture than body-on-frame vehicles. In addition, Crossovers are often built on platforms borrowed from smaller cars in a brand's range and given typical compact SUV styling cues on the outside. Of course, more expensive and hi-tech versions are available and manufacturers have sought to create upgrade packages to reduce the cost of making your Crossover more luxurious.

3. More Space Than A Hatchback

A common reason for wanting a bigger car is the need for more space, whether that is to incorporate a pushchair, numerous toys and a nappy bag, or simply to transport more people comfortably. Although many Crossovers are built on the same platforms as smaller cars, manufacturers make a concerted effort to ensure that every passenger receives more space and the boot size considerably increases.

4. Improved Fuel Economy

Typically, Crossovers are lighter than full-size SUVs because they are smaller and don't possess their hauling and off-road capabilities, which ultimately makes them more fuel efficient. With the advances in engine technology, some Crossovers are able to achieve figures up to 78.5mpg.

5. Better Handling Than Large SUVs

Being lighter and built on a car platform means that Crossovers are already more fuel efficient and cheaper than their larger SUV counterparts. It also means that they are nicer to drive because they are able to stop in shorter distances, can manoeuvre through smaller spaces and are far easier to park.

6. More Options

An important aspect of car buying, especially when you buy new, is getting all the features you want. When it comes to Crossovers they are highly customisable because they are set up to satisfy a broad range of people.

You can have family-friendly features like fold-down seats as well as more upscale features such as high quality cabin materials and high-tech infotainment systems. Crossovers are also customisable on the outside with manufacturers jumping on the trend of colour combinations so that you can find your perfect match.