Sedan vs SUV: How to Choose?

Buying a car is just as difficult as getting a phone. You’ve got this array of options, all with incredibly good features that fit your style and wants, but different prices. So you bore over each, trying to weigh them and their prices, deciding if that $200 difference is worth the features you’d be missing out on.
This time, you’ve narrowed your list to just 2 options: a sedan and an SUV. But you can’t make up your mind on which to buy. Before we get started on why both are good picks (and the potential drawbacks you may face with either), you should know that making the best choice is very dependent on individual needs and preferences.
Now that’s out of the way, in this article, we will explore factors that can help you decide which to get.
Is It For Everyday Use?
The first question in your buyer’s journey should be if this vehicle would be part of your daily routine. And if yes, for what reason. Most people consider the practicality and convenience of their vehicle for everyday use very important.
Sedans are perfect for daily commute and urban driving. They are smaller, and therefore, easier to park in tight spaces. Though there is a setback in their nature. Their trunks have very limited space, which would be disappointing for someone whose routine involves hauling large items.
On the other hand, SUVs are much more spacious, with a bigger cargo area which is perfect for transporting everything from groceries to sport equipment and even larger items like bicycles or gardening supplies.
For families or individuals with jobs requiring hauling items frequently, then the SUV is your perfect option. But if you’re single, working remotely or without a need for cargo in your vehicle, a sedan should be just right.
Fuel Efficiency and Costs
There’s a couple of factors that affect the fuel efficiency of a vehicle: weight, aerodynamics, and engine efficiency to name a few. And Sedans beat SUVs at every one.
Many sedans typically have the edge in the weight department due to lighter materials being incorporated into their build. Therefore, they require less energy to move, which in turn leads to fuel efficiency. SUVs are heavier, with much larger engines which tend to guzzle more gas and incur high maintenance expenses.
Sedans also have better aerodynamics leading to superior gas mileage compared to SUVs. Owners praise sedans for being more economical for everyday use. So, looking for better fuel efficiency? Sedan.
Driving Experience
The driving experience comparison between SUVs and sedans is miles apart because of their difference in center of gravity. Sedans offer a more enjoyable experience due to a low center of gravity which enhances handling and cornering. But you could come into a bit of trouble if you hope to ply a road with potholes because of their low ground clearance.
So in terms of driving experience, sedans have so much to offer with better dynamics, handling, corner control, brake system, and mileage, but aren’t very good at navigating bad roads (which are prevalent in many third world countries). However, SUVs shine in scenarios where ground clearance and a higher driving position would be helpful, such as bad roads, or flooded areas.
Safety and Accessibility
In a rollover accident situation, you’d wish to be in a sedan. Their lower center of gravity combined with their stability takes care of that risk. Not the same story for SUVs sadly. Though they aren’t entirely useless in this regard.
Their higher driving position could help drivers see the road ahead and surrounding areas to anticipate and react to road hazards more effectively.
In terms of accessibility, sedans really do not care about tall or uniquely-abled persons. Their low center of gravity makes it challenging for either group to enter or exit. Though that’s no problem for most people. This is where SUVs shine again.
Resale Value and Long-Term Considerations
If you’re planning to sell or trade in your vehicle after a couple years, then you should go for the SUV as they tend to have better resale value than sedans. But, if you intend to keep your vehicle long term, you’re going to incur lower maintenance and running costs in that period if you pick a sedan, which would make them a more economical choice.
Conclusion
Now, to answer your question, deciding between a sedan and an SUV depends mainly on your lifestyle and needs. If you’ve got a household of more than 4 people, or you’ve got a job that requires hauling cargo frequently, or you’re really tall, the 5 seater SUV is your go to.
But if you’d rather have a more engaging driving experience, or you value fuel efficiency (because the economy is NOT on our side right now), or don’t have a big family, a sedan would be a better option.