Shopping for a Nissan: Should I Get a Sedan or an SUV?

Need help choosing a body style that fits your budget and lifestyle? Settle your SUV vs sedan dilemma here. Learn the key differences, pros, and cons of each.

“Should I get a sedan or SUV?” seems like a simple question at first glance, but with so many options to choose from, and so many different features to consider, it can quickly become a head-scratcher. There’s no wrong choice, but there is plenty to consider before deciding to step on the pedal of one or the other. 

While we can’t decide for you, we can give you the knowledge you need to make an informed decision about your sedan vs SUV dilemma. Read on to learn the main differences between sedans and SUVs and the pros and cons of each. 

SUV vs. Sedan vs. Crossover: Defining Features

Sport utility vehicles (SUVs), like the Nissan Armada, are known for their ample cargo space, elevated ride height, and versatility. Typically the largest and boxiest of the three types, they feature rigid body-on-frame construction and often offer four-wheel drive (4WD). Many SUVs can traverse rugged or off-road terrain, making them a viable choice for the weekend adventurer. 

Sedans, like the Nissan Altima, are the smallest of the three types and prioritize fuel economy. Aesthetically, sedans are sleek and ride low to the ground. Mechanically, they generally have smaller engines than SUVs or crossovers, offer front wheel drive (FWD) or rear wheel drive (RWD), and have lightweight unibody constructions — that is, the frame and body are combined. 

Crossovers, like the Nissan Rogue, blend the characteristics of both SUVs and sedans, offering a balance between spaciousness, versatility, and fuel efficiency. Like SUVs, they feature elevated ride heights and spacious cabins. But like sedans, they feature lightweight unibody construction, which enables them to be powered by smaller, more fuel-efficient engines. These combined features make them suitable for both city driving and light off-road use.   

Pros and Cons of SUVs, Sedans, and Crossovers

Now that you have a general idea of the differences between each vehicle, let’s dive into the pros and cons of each type so that you can make an informed decision about what might be best for your lifestyle and budget. 

SUV Pros

• Spaciousness: SUVs generally offer more cargo capacity and passenger space, making them ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts. 
• Ground Clearance: Higher ground clearance in SUVs often means better handling on rough terrain and improved visibility. 
• Off-road Capability: Many SUVs are constructed so that their body sits on top of their frame, which helps maintain rigidity in difficult terrain. In addition, many SUVs offer 4WD, which can help them climb steep hills and prevent them from getting stuck in snow, sand, or mud. 
• Towing Capacity: Though towing weight varies between makes and models, SUVs are generally capable of hauling caravans, trailers, and other vehicles, due to their large, powerful engines. 2023 and 2024 Nissan Armadas, for example, can tow up to 8,500 pounds, when properly equipped. 

SUV Cons

• Fuel Economy: Larger and heavier than sedans or crossovers, SUVs typically require more fuel to power their robust engines, especially when equipped with all-wheel or four-wheel drive systems. However, advancements like turbocharged or hybrid engines have significantly improved SUV fuel efficiency overall. 
• Handling: Due to their high center of gravity, SUVs might not handle as responsively as sedans. Additionally, their large size can make them difficult to maneuver in tight urban environments.
• Cost: SUVs have a lot to offer, but with those robust offerings generally comes a heftier price tag. 

Sedan Pros

• Fuel Efficiency: Since sedans are lighter, more aerodynamic, and propelled by smaller, less powerful engines, they typically offer better fuel efficiency than their larger counterparts. 
• Handling: Low centers of gravity and light unibody constructions can make sedans the top pick for responsive, maneuverable vehicles.  
• Cost: Sedans often come with a lower price tag than SUVs or crossovers, making them a more affordable option for budget-conscious buyers. 

Sedan Cons

• Limited Space: Sedans offer less cargo and passenger space compared to SUVs or crossovers, which can be a major drawback for those who frequently need to transport many items or people. 
• Ride Height: While the lower ride height of sedans improves handling, it can be a disadvantage in terms of visibility and ground clearance, especially in adverse weather conditions. 
• Towing Capacity: While some sedans may be able to tow lightweight loads, like small trailers, they are typically incapable of hauling heavy loads like campers or larger vehicles. 

Crossover Pros

• Versatility: For those who don’t need the towing power or off-road prowess of a traditional SUV, crossovers are a “best of both worlds” kind of vehicle, offering a practical balance of space, comfort, and efficiency. 
• Fuel Efficiency: Crossovers typically have better fuel economy than traditional SUVs, and many even boast fuel efficiency that rivals some sedans. 
• Spaciousness: Though not always as spacious as full-size SUVs, crossovers offer more cargo and passenger room than most sedans, which makes them suitable for large families or adventurers who need to pack a bunch of gear. 
• Handling: Like sedans, most crossovers feature light unibody frames and lower ride heights (when compared to SUVs), leading to better handling and maneuverability than traditional SUVs. 

Crossover Cons

• Off-road Capability: Although crossovers offer some level of off-road ability, they are generally less capable than traditional SUVs, which are built for more rugged circumstances. 
• Towing Capacity: Crossovers typically have lower towing weights than SUVs, making them less ideal for hauling heavy loads. However, when properly equipped, crossovers like the 2024 Nissan Rogue can tow up to 1500 pounds — that’s nothing to scoff at! 
• Price: Though typically less expensive than full SUVs, crossovers can be more expensive than sedans, potentially putting them out of reach for those who prioritize affordability over the added features of a crossover. 

Still Don’t Know What to Choose? 

Deciding between a sedan, crossover, or SUV is only the beginning of your quest for a vehicle that suits your lifestyle. Whether you have a specific year and model in mind or just a list of must-have features, come on down to Ed Hicks Nissan in Corpus Christi. Our knowledgeable team is here to guide you toward your dream Nissan. From rugged SUVs and versatile crossovers to sleek sedans and efficient electrics, our extensive inventory of new and pre-owned vehicles is sure to have what you’re looking for.