What's an SUV, the car invented by the US Army. What are the benefits of a car equipped for off-road journeys?

SUV is the abbreviation of sport utility vehicle. We use the term SUV to define cars with a high hatchback and a higher ground clearance than other models. The term "crossover" is also used quite often, but it is rather a marketing concept used to describe a utility vehicle built on a car platform instead of a truck. Therefore, in most cases, the terms SUV and crossover refer to the same thing.

SUVs built on machine platforms offer superior handling, reduced fuel consumption, high comfort and more interior space. Truck or van platforms are heavier but can offer a better off-road experience. Among the features or positive elements of this car include the following: the driver is at a higher height in an SUV and offers better visibility than any other machine, larger than a normal car, at full speed , in the interior space and increased security.

An SUV is safer for the family because in the case of acids, being bigger, it can better absorb the impact. With such an AWD machine, you can go on dry land, grass, forest roads or wells, steep slopes, sand, etc. SUVs are divided into several categories, also called subsections: small, compact, medium and large; with the size, also increases the engine power, the towing capacity and, above all, the price.

Prices for small or compact SUVs are around 15,000 to 20,000 euros. Medium and large companies can reach 40,000 euros and high-end models can go up to 100,000 euros. Standard features offered more and more often include side airbags, parking video assistance and electronic stability systems on the move; most SUVs are built to carry five passengers.

The first sport utility vehicles were cars designed for use by the military, as was the case with Jeep or Land Rover vehicles developed during the Second World War. Subsequently, the models of the army were taken back and adapted to the civilian area, which gives the most efficient vehicles of the moment. SUV sales in all segments have risen sharply in recent years to reach 27.8 million in 2017, a record 34%, according to JATO.

By way of comparison, in 2014, 16.6 million SUVs of all types were sold worldwide, and last year 11 million more. The segment, often called the "small SUV", which includes small and compact SUVs, totaled 5.9 million cars last year, including 1.5 million in Europe. The segment is also called "small passive filter" and includes models of a length between 4 and 4.4 meters. The growth of compact and compact SUVs continued this year, while the segment reached 36% of the European market, a new record. To this total, small SUVs contributed more than a third. Estimates from various analysts indicate an increase of 400,000 to 500,000 units of small SUV sales with the emergence of new models on the market. In Romania, the SUV segment also grew strongly, APIA data for seven months of 2018 indicating a sales increase of 59% for the entire segment. Two of the best-selling SUVs in Europe are produced in Romania: Dacia Duster and Ford EcoSport.