Why are SUVs Growing in Popularity?

If you think there seem to be more SUVs on our roads and every other car advert is for the next ‘best SUV’, then you’re probably right. Figures show that last year SUVs accounted for 25.6% of new vehicle registrations in Europe, meaning just over one in four new vehicles on the roads were an SUV.

Traditionally, hatchbacks, saloons and estates have been the most popular models with drivers in the UK but that looks to be changing. There are various reasons for the recent growth in popularity of SUVs and crossover cars.  

Practical and Spacious

As SUVs have grown in popularity there has been a fall in sales of new MPVs, whose market share fell to 9.5% across the same period that SUVs grew. Many manufacturers seem to be phasing out or replacing their MPV models with crossover cars or SUVs as the trend carries on as well, such as how the New Citroën C3 Aircross SUV is the successor to the previous C3 Picasso MPV.

Many SUVs offer the same, if not more, amount of space and practicality as a lot of MPVs, with a more appealing style. For families, an SUV provides plenty of room to seat up to seven people in some models, with the large boot ideal for packing in camping gear, kids’ bikes and more. Plus, the 4x4 capabilities make going on adventures out in the countryside even easier than a bulky people carrier.

Greater and More Affordable Ranges

As SUVs have grown in popularity, manufacturers have taken note and started to increase their range of SUVs. It’s harder to define what is an SUV as there are now many different types, from a compact SUV to mid-size options, crossover cars, luxury SUVs and large SUVs (which are probably closest to what are deemed a traditional SUV).

For example, within Peugeot’s range you can find everything from the compact 2008 SUV, to the award-winning 3008 SUV and newly launched, large New Peugeot 5008 SUV. Not only are there more SUVs available, but increased competition means lower prices on new models, while there is an increase of SUVs on the second-hand market leading to even more affordable options.

Better and Safer Technology

Improved engine technology means not all SUVs are the fuel guzzlers they once were, with many offering reasonable running costs. There are even a few hybrid SUVs out there, with more sure to be introduced in the future as drivers become more eco-conscious.

Safety technology is also a big draw for many drivers to choose an SUV over a saloon or MPV. This is mainly due to the larger and heavier build, along with the taller seating offering greater visibility which can make some drivers feel more at ease. The likes of blind spot warning, automatic emergency braking systems, rear cameras and more are included in many SUVs the same as other modern cars too.

Quality Vehicles

Even though many SUVs are now cheaper, the quality has arguably increased, with many upmarket and top of the range SUVs replacing luxury executive saloons (which have also seen their sales dip). The high quality and versatility of many SUVs mean they can be used as both a family vehicle, commuter car or just for fun on the weekend. They wouldn’t be experiencing a rise in popularity were they poorly made or performing vehicles.

If you’re thinking about joining the current trend then find the best SUV for you at Robins and Day, whether it’s a crossover New Peugeot 3008 SUV or something else from our range of new and used vehicles.