There are lots of different types of vehicles and it can be very difficult to decide which is best for you. Two popular choices are hatchbacks and SUVs. Each vehicle has its own advantages and disadvantages, so deciding which one would be best for you can be hard to work out. In this blog from APD Car Parts, we will look at the differences between hatchbacks and SUVs as this should help you make an informed decision about which vehicle would best suit your lifestyle and needs.
What is a Hatchback Car?
A hatchback is defined as a car with a rear door that swings upward, providing access to a boot and rear seating area. This design makes hatchbacks very versatile especially as the rear seats can fold down to make a larger boot area, and this flexibility makes them a popular choice.
Why are hatchbacks so popular? Their compact size makes them perfect for city driving where space can be limited especially when parking. The boot area and rear seats, that can be folded down, are a great help for small families and individuals with varied needs.
Hatchbacks are generally more fuel-efficient, thanks to their smaller size and lighter weight. They can also be more affordable, in terms of purchase price and servicing costs.
What is an SUV Car?
An SUV, Sport Utility Vehicle, is designed to be driven over a variety of terrains, along with providing good visibility due to their higher driving position. SUVs are known for their great build quality, which makes them suitable for both city and off-road driving.
SUVs are popular among families due to their spacious interiors because they provide lots of seating and storage space. SUV’s can be very comfortable on longer journeys, while still having the ability to go off-road safely.
Their raised driving position improves road visibility which helps contribute to a greater feeling of safety; because they allow drivers to see over traffic and better anticipate road conditions.
What is the Difference Between a Hatchback and an SUV?
Now that we have explained what SUVs and Hatchbacks are, you might be wondering what the differences are. Make an informed decision on which is the right vehicle type for you by understanding the key differences!
Size and Space
Hatchbacks and SUVs differ in both size and space. SUVs are generally larger and provide more passenger and storage space. This makes them ideal for families and people needing lots of luggage options. Hatchbacks are more compact, which makes them easier to drive and park in busier locations, like towns and cities.
Performance and Handling
SUVs often come with all-wheel drive (AWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD), making them better suited for off-road driving and hazardous road conditions. Hatchbacks have good fuel efficiency and are suited to shorter stop start urban driving styles.
Maintenance
Hatchbacks are generally less expensive to maintain, than SUVs, due to their smaller size and simpler mechanics. SUVs can have higher maintenance costs due to their larger size and more complex suspensions. For top-quality branded spare parts for both hatchbacks and SUVs, visit APD Car Parts.
What is the Best SUV to Buy?
There are a lot of SUVs to choose from all with their own advantages. Choosing the best SUV depends on your specific needs and budget. Some top-rated SUVs in the market include:
Kia Sportage
The Kia Sportage is great for families, it is spacious and practical offering lots of room for passengers and luggage. The Kia Sportage won awards in the 2020 What Car? Used Car of the Year Awards, further supporting its reputation as a very good SUV.
Honda CR-V
The Honda CR-V is available in two models: the CR-V e full hybrid and the CR-V e plug-in hybrid, covering different preferences for fuel efficiency and environmental impact. With its 5 seats and up to 1700 litres of boot capacity, the CR-V offers plenty of space for passengers and luggage. If you need OEM quality spare parts for your Honda CR-V, please visit APD’s Honda car part range.
Audi Q7
The Audi Q7 is a luxury SUV and is highly recommended for people wanting a comfortable and stylish SUV. The Audi Q7 has won awards from WhatCar? Best Used Luxury SUVs, further enhancing its quality and appeal.
What is the Best Hatchback to Buy?
For those leaning towards a hatchback, some of the best options available are:
Honda Civic
The Honda Civic is known for its reliability, spacious 410-litre boot and great driving experience. Honda has a reputation for building durable, long lasting cars with excellent fuel economy. The Civic was ranked number 1 in AutoExpress’s ‘Top 10 Best Hatchbacks to Buy 2024’.
Renault Clio
The smart design of the Clio makes it a standout choice as an all-round hatchback. The Clio also has a comfortable interior, making it the perfect car for those long journeys and road trips! The Clio has a spacious boot and strikes a good balance between its compact size and ample interior space, making it ideal for local commuters and small families. Visit APD’s Renault car part range to buy top-quality Renault Clio replacement and service car parts.
Kia Ceed
The Kia Ceed stands out as a fantastic contender amongst hatchbacks, competing closely with the Ford Focus and Volkswagen Golf. They are known for their build quality and reliability, while also combining practicality and modern design.
They offer an enjoyable and comfortable drive whether on city roads or travelling along the motorway. The Kia Ceed offers smooth and responsive performance along with its well equipped interior that enhances its overall appeal.
Find Spare Parts for Hatchbacks and SUVs with APD Car Parts
If you are in need of hatchback or SUV spare parts, APD Car Parts offers a comprehensive range for all major manufacturers. From service parts to braking and wheel & steering and suspension components APD car parts are all competitively priced. Take advantage of free delivery on all orders over £30, visit APD Car Parts for your top-quality OE car parts with fast delivery.
