In recent years, SUVs have taken over the roads of Britain. These large, imposing vehicles, with their spacious interiors, high-riding positions, and rugged looks, have captured the hearts and minds of drivers everywhere. But for all their popularity many drivers don’t know what an SUV really is, or how they differ from other car models. Most importantly, is an SUV the right choice for you?
So if you’re in the market for an SUV, or simply curious about these popular vehicles, read on.
Interested in financing an SUV? Don’t forget to read our SUV Car Loans Blog
So what exactly is an SUV?
SUVs or ‘Sports Utility Vehicles’, have taken the UK by storm in the last decade. They combine the capabilities of a traditional Truck with the family-focused passenger-carrying space of a minivan or people carrier. Their larger size, good performance and popular sleek looks have been a hit with UK car buyers.
Why have SUVs become so popular?
SUVs have seen a marked increase in popularity in recent years. One reason for this is the perception of increased safety and security that comes with driving a larger vehicle. SUVs tend to have higher ground clearance and a more commanding view of the road. This can give drivers a sense of being in control and protected.
Many SUVs are also equipped with features such as all-wheel drive and advanced safety technologies. Lane departure warning and forward collision warning systems are common. This gives safety-conscious drivers added peace of mind.
Beyond safety, SUVs also offer a great deal of versatility. They can be used for various purposes, from daily commutes to weekend road trips with the dogs or moving luggage around. They typically have more interior space than the average car, making them a popular choice for families or those who need to transport a lot of gear. And with SUVs available in a wide range of sizes and price points, they’ve become affordable for many UK Car Buyers.
Lastly, SUVs have become more fuel-efficient. Many models now offer hybrid or electric options, which can appeal to consumers who are conscious of their environmental impact and fuel economy.
In short, SUVs offer a unique combination of practicality, versatility, and perceived safety, making them a highly sought-after choice among drivers.
What is the difference between an SUV and a 4×4?
Many buyers believe that an SUV is simply a modern term for the 4×4, but that is not the case. Whilst all 4×4 vehicles include four-wheel drive, not all SUVs have it. If four-wheel drive is important to you, its vital to check that the model you are interested in included the feature.
What is the difference between an SUV and a crossover?
Whilst SUVs and crossovers are very similar, there are a few differences. In a classic crossover, the vehicle tends to sit closer to the ground, is less likely to have the four-wheeled drive and is generally smaller than an SUV. For most drivers, a crossover will offer a more car-like ride, whereas the higher position of an SUV will offer a very different experience.
Are there any disadvantages to owning an SUV?
Whilst SUVs are popular, they aren’t for everyone. For one, their popularity has led to both new and used SUVs increasing in price. They tend to be more expensive than hatchbacks or estate cars. The upside to this is that they tend to hold their value better than other car models.
The size and weight of SUVs can make them difficult to manoeuvre, especially when reversing into tight car park spaces.
The size and weight also lead them be less fuel efficient than smaller models. Luckily, new models are much improved in this regard with fuel efficiency lose to what you’d expect in a family estate car.
What are the most popular SUVs in the UK?
In 2022, the most popular car model in the UK was the Nissan Qashqai. This mid-size family-focused SUV, now in its 3rd Gen version has been a massive success, offering extra cabin space and improved onboard tech.
Other popular SUVs include the Range Rover Evoque, Kia Sportage and the Volvo XC60.
Where can I get more information about buying an SUV?
If you are looking to finance your next SUV, check out our SUV Car Finance guide for helpful tips and tricks.
Are you in the market for a new SUV in 2023? SUVs are the most popular choice with our customers with a variety of options to suit your budget.
We’ve scoured the web and taken a test drive of the top contenders to bring you our top ten list of the best SUVs to buy this year. From spacious family-friendly options to luxury models packed with high-tech features, there’s something on this list for everyone.
We’ve considered factors such as fuel economy, safety ratings, and overall value to help you make an informed decision. So if you’re after a daily commuter or a rugged off-road vehicle, we can help.
Looking to find out more about financing your next SUV? Check out the Motorly SUV Car Finance Guide.
BMW X3
The BMW X3 is a compact luxury SUV. Known for its sporty handling and powerful engine options, it’s a popular choice amongst car enthusiasts.
0 to 60 mph in just 4 seconds, the interior of the X3 M is also top of the line, with a spacious cargo area and comfortable seating for the whole 5.
Safety features include front and rear parking sensors and lane departure warnings. Optional features include adaptive cruise control, automatic high-beam headlights, and a surround-view camera system.
The BMW X3 is a great option for those looking for a luxury SUV that provides high performance and great acceleration.
Audi Q5
The Audi Q5 is a popular compact luxury crossover SUV. The Q5 offers a comfortable and spacious interior, with lots of room for the family. Standard features include leather seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a high-resolution infotainment display.
The Q5 also offers a smooth and comfortable ride, with precise handling and responsive steering.
Audi has consistently updated the Q5 throughout its production. New versions were launched in 2012, 2016 and most recently in 2019.
Overall, the Audi Q5 is a well-rounded compact luxury SUV that offers a comfortable and refined driving experience. It’s a great choice for buyers looking for a luxurious, high-performing vehicle that can handle all types of weather and road conditions.
Skoda Kodiaq
The Skoda Kodiaq is a large seven-seat SUV. The Kodiaq offers a spacious and practical interior, with plenty of room for the family.
The Kodiaq also offers a comfortable ride, with precise handling and responsive steering. The Kodiaq also offers a variety of driver assistance features, including lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert.
The Skoda Kodiaq is a well-rounded large SUV that offers a comfortable and refined driving experience. It’s a great choice for buyers looking for a practical, top-performing SUV.
Volvo XC40
The Volvo XC40 offers classic Volvo styling in an impressive SUV form. The XC40 offers a stylish and modern interior, with a minimalist design and high-quality materials.
The XC40 also offers a comfortable and composed ride, with precise handling and responsive steering.
The Volvo XC40 is a great option for buyers looking for a well-rounded compact luxury SUV that offers a stylish, modern and refined driving experience. Additionally, the Volvo XC40 is known for its advanced safety features and green powertrain options, making it an environmentally conscious choice.
Peugeot 2008
The Peugeot 2008 proves that just because you are after a smaller SUV doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style. If you want to avoid the bigger SUVs on the market the 2008 is the one for you.
The 2008 also offers a comfortable and composed ride, with precise handling and responsive steering. The 2008 also offers a variety of driver assistance features, including lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert.
Peugeot 2008 is a well-rounded compact crossover SUV that offers a refined driving experience perfect for young families.
Land Rover Discovery Sport
The Land Rover Discovery Sport is a compact luxury SUV that was first introduced in 2014. The Discovery Sport offers an ample and well-appointed interior, with high-quality materials and plenty of room for passengers.
The Discovery Sport also offers a comfortable and composed ride, with precise handling and responsive steering.
Overall, the Land Rover Discovery Sport is a well-rounded compact luxury SUV offering a spacious and well-equipped interior and a wide range of advanced features. Additionally, the Discovery Sport is known for its off-road capabilities and advanced driver assistance features, making it a great choice for adventure seekers.
Nissan Qashqai
The UK’s best-selling car in 2022, the Nissan Qashqai is guaranteed to be a top seller in 2023. The Qashqai is a mid-range SUV that’s been a best seller since hitting the market.
The Qashqai also offers a comfortable ride, with precise handling and responsive steering. The Qashqai also offers the latest in driver assistance features, including lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert.
Overall, the Nissan Qashqai is a top choice for families looking for a mid-size, practical, yet high-performing SUV. Also, Qashqai is known for its great value for money compared to its competitors in the segment, making it an affordable option.
Seat Tarraco
The Seat Tarraco is a large seven-seat SUV that was first introduced in 2018. For buyers looking for a larger SUV that doesn’t completely give up on performance, the Seat Tarraco is a top option.
Kia Sorento
The Kia Sorento is a mid-sized SUV option designed to compete with the Nissan Qashqai. First launched in 2002, the latest version has advanced features and stylish finishing to compete with the big boys in the SUV market.
The latest version also features advanced safety features such as Adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic emergency braking.
Whilst not as cheap as it once was, the Kia Sorento is still a great option for those looking for a 7-seater SUV that combines practicality with decent performance.
Range Rover Evoque
The Range Rover Evoque is one of the most popular SUVs on the market, with Motorly customers keen to get behind the wheel of the prestigious car brand.
The Range Rover Evoque is a well-rounded compact luxury SUV that offers a stylish, modern and refined driving experience. The Evoque offers a spacious and well-equipped interior and a wide range of advanced features. It’s a great choice for SUV buyers looking for a luxurious, high-performing vehicle that can handle all types of weather and road conditions. Additionally, the Evoque is known for its off-road capabilities and advanced driver assistance features, making the Evoque a great for adventure seekers and city dwellers alike.
As the market for SUVs continues to evolve, the top options in 2023 reflect the changing tastes and needs of consumers. From sleek crossovers to rugged off-roaders, these SUVs offer a wide range of features and capabilities.
Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly option or a luxury vehicle with all the bells and whistles, there’s something on this list for everyone. As we look ahead to the future of the SUV market, one thing is clear: the choices for consumers are only going to continue to expand.
SUVs have become increasingly popular among car buyers, and for good reason. They offer a perfect blend of spaciousness, style and functionality. However, potential buyers are under the impression that getting an SUV loan requires a significant deposit or down payment. This is not always the case.
While some lenders may require a deposit, there are also options available for those who want to finance an SUV without a deposit or zero money down.
In this blog, we will explore the options available to buyers looking for a No Deposit SUV Loan.
Can you get SUV Car Finance with Zero Deposit?
Yes, It is possible for people to get finance for an SUV without a deposit, but it depends on the lender and your credit history. Some lenders on the Motorly panel may require a down payment, while others may not. However, don’t forget that putting down a deposit may help you qualify for finance or get a better interest rate.
So, if you are keen to put zero down on your SUV purchase, it’s likely your monthly payments will be higher.
Ultimately, the terms and conditions of the loan, such as the interest rate and monthly payments, will depend on the lender and the borrower’s creditworthiness. It’s always recommended to shop around, compare loan offers from different lenders and check the terms and conditions before making a decision.
Is it possible to take out an SUV Loan with no credit checks?
A question we get a lot from potential buyers is whether they can take out a car loan without a credit check.
All lenders on our panel will want to conduct a full credit check (also known as a hard credit check) before completing your car finance application. However, during the initial phase of your application, they’ll only do a soft credit check.
A soft credit check is a type of inquiry into your credit history that does not affect your credit score. This is the type of credit check that is performed when you first apply with Motorly. Soft credit checks are used by lenders to get a general idea of your credit history and to pre-qualify you for a car loan. They typically only show basic information such as your credit score and payment history. It leaves no permanent mark on your credit file.
A hard credit check is a more thorough inquiry into your credit history that can have an impact on your credit score. Hard credit checks are performed when you have been pre-qualified and have decided to move forward with your car finance application. Hard credit checks will show more detailed information such as recent credit inquiries and account details.
What happens if I take out a Zero Deposit SUV Loan?
If you are looking for zero down on your SUV Car Loan now, it’s important to know the effects of doing so.
As you know, a deposit is not always required when taking out car finance. However, if a deposit is not made, you may be required to pay a higher interest rate on the loan, as the lender may see you as a higher-risk borrower.
By putting a deposit down, it shows the lender that you are invested in the loan and the purchase. This can increase the chances of the loan being approved and the interest rate being lower.
Additionally, without a deposit, the overall loan amount would be higher. As the lender is financing the full amount of the vehicle, your monthly payments will be higher.
Also, the loan may require a longer period to be paid off. This will result in more interest paid over the life of the loan.
Ready to apply? Check out the Motorly 0 Down SUV Loans page today!
