Once the rough and rugged preserve of motoring across the pond, the popularity of SUVs in the UK has also been steadily rising over the years. Practical, safe and spacious, there are many reasons this symbol of all-American exploration is now making inroads into the British motoring market. With their elevated ride height, SUVs certainly have a commanding presence on the roads, but they're surprisingly efficient and practical too, making them a great choice for those with larger families to look after.

If you're thinking of switching from a saloon, hatchback or MPV, we've created a guide to help you choose the SUV that'll most suit your needs. From the features you should be weighing up to the different SUV models available right now, we hope you find this in-depth resource helpful when it comes to making the final decision.

What is an SUV car?

While you'll have certainly heard the term, you might be a little iffy about what constitutes an SUV – especially since there are now so many shapes and sizes on the market.

For a start, it's an acronym for sport-utility vehicle, and refers to cars featuring high elevation with a wagon-style roofline instead of a boot. In the past, they were basically trucks with extended cabins that had 4-wheel drive for off-roading. But things have developed since then, with hardcore off-road capabilities replaced by practicality and interior comfort.

So, while we can still use ‘SUV’ to refer to 4X4s, smaller cars without all-wheel drive also fall under the term nowadays. Nevertheless, a good rule of thumb in identifying an SUV would be: if it's higher than a normal car and features this extended roofline, then it's probably an SUV.

Honda CR-V Hybrid

Pros of owning a SUV Car

Buying a new car is a big decision, but when you’ve got this many positives of owning an SUV, it’s well worth considering one for your next motor. Let’s take a look at just some of the reasons that you might want to drive away in an SUV.

Spacious interior and boot space

One of the biggest advantages of owning an SUV is the generous space. With roomy interiors and expansive boot capacity, SUVs are designed to handle everything from weekly grocery runs to long family road trips. Pushchairs, wheelchairs, camping gear – whatever it is, an SUV will deal with anything you can throw at it, without compromising on comfort or luxury.

SUVs are especially popular with families and drivers who need extra room. Larger models come with multiple seating configurations, wide-opening doors, and rear legroom, making them perfect for accommodating passengers of all ages. Parents in particular will appreciate the ease of fitting child seats, while commuters might make use of the extra room to pack work supplies.

Enhanced driver visibility

SUVs typically provide greater visibility compared to smaller cars because of their additional height. With a taller build and larger windows, drivers gain a clearer view of the road ahead and their surroundings. This not only makes manoeuvring through traffic easier but can also give drivers a great sense of confidence.

Accessibility to great safety features

Modern SUVs are equipped with advanced safety technologies designed to protect both drivers and passengers. On top of their rigid frames, they feature safety enhancements like lane-keeping assistance and adaptive cruise control, as well as automatic emergency braking.

High towing capabilities

For those who need to tow caravans, trailers, or boats, SUVs often excel in pulling power. Their powerful and economic engines and sturdy chassis make them a top choice for drivers who require towing capacity.

Great versatility

SUVs are among the most versatile vehicles on the market. They seamlessly blend comfort, performance, and utility into one vehicle. SUVs provide adaptability to a wide range of uses, from commuters to school-runners, shoppers to caravanners.

What is the best SUV car to buy?

With so many great SUVs on the market, choosing the right one will depend on your lifestyle, budget, and driving preferences. At Brindley, we’re proud to offer a wide range of models. We’ve got efficient compact SUVs, spacious seven-seaters and premium electric options. Below, we explore some of the best SUVs to buy right now, each with unique features that will stand out to different types of drivers.

JAECOO 7

The JAECOO 7 is a stylish SUV built for those who want off-road capability without sacrificing comfort. Perfect for adventurous families and drivers who enjoy exploring more than just the city, it combines off-road confidence with a refined interior.

It’s packed with advanced technology and safety features, which make it a capable choice for everyday driving and weekend escapes. JAECOO’s current offerings are stirringa lot of excitement in the car space, and there are plenty of reasons why you should consider JAECOO for your next car.

Kia Sportage

A long-standing favourite, the Kia Sportage is a well-rounded SUV that’s stood the test of time, while adapting to modern expectations. With excellent fuel efficiency, a spacious cabin, and sleek design, it balances everyday practicality with modern style, so there are plenty of reasons why motorists have stuck with each generation of Sportage. The Sportage is also available with hybrid options, making it a smart choice for eco-conscious drivers. For a deeper dive into why it’s so popular, read our blog: 8 Reasons to Consider Purchasing a Kia Sportage.

Kia EV9

The EV9 stands out as a larger SUV with seven seats. The larger chassis is coupled with a large battery that’ll drive you for up to 349 miles, with fast charging to keep range anxiety at bay. It’s perfect for larger families who want to embrace electric driving without compromising on space or comfort during school runs, commutes, or staycations.

Volvo EX30

Compact, electric, and packed with innovation, the Volvo EX30joins the rest of the Volvo SUV range as an excellent choice for city drivers who still want SUV practicality. Despite its smaller footprint, it offers advanced safety features, a premium interior, and an impressive electric range of 295 miles.

Honda HR-V

Stylish and efficient, the new Honda HR-Vis a great compact SUV for those who want a balance of practicality, agility, and the reliability that you can expect from Honda. With a modern design coupled with hybrid efficiency, it’s well-suited to urban driving while still providing the flexibility that modern families need.

Honda CR-V

The Honda CR-V continues to be a best-seller thanks to its spacious interior, hybrid efficiency, and smooth driving experience. Available as both PHEV and FHEV, it caters to eco-conscious families who don’t want to compromise on power or space. Its refined cabin and generous boot space make it an excellent long-term family SUV, along with a fantastic set of safety features.

OMODA 9 Interior

OMODA 9

The all-new OMODA 9 delivers bold styling, advanced tech, and a comfortable driving experience with a premium feel and cutting-edge safety features. It’s ideal for drivers who want something a little different. For a slightly smaller SUV from OMODA, the OMODA 5 is also available at Brindley.

Mazda CX-5

The Mazda CX-5 is known for its sharp design, extensive features and the engaging drive that Mazda is known for, making it perfect for solo drivers or smaller families who enjoy time behind the wheel. Comfortable and stylish, it balances performance with practicality.

MG HS

The MG HS offers exceptional value for money, with a spacious interior, an impressive tech offering, and an attractive price point that’s kind to your bank balance, without compromising on features. It’s a great choice for families who want SUV practicality without stretching their budget. Available in petrol and hybrid configurations, the MG HS is a solid all-rounder that delivers comfort and versatility at an affordable price.

Are SUVs available on Motability?

Among the huge range of cars available on Motability, there are several SUVs. SUVs make great Motability cars because of their spacious interior and comfortable ride height, which makes entering and exiting the vehicle a breeze. For more information, head over to our Motability page.

There, you can find all the information you’ll need, alongside a button to live chat that can be used to speak to a member of our team, instantly.

Looking to secure an SUV from Brindley? Don’t hesitate to get in touch. Our team will get back to you within the hour during our business hours, so that you can discuss test drives, finance options, and access to Motability.