The Evolution of the Suv
The SUV, or Sports Utility Vehicle, is a bit of Americana and a “cousin to the pick-up truck” in stature. SUVs evolved from early Land Rovers and Jeeps, and even earlier “depot hacks” or utility vehicles that transported people and parcels or luggage to and from train stations, also called “suburbans.” So, the pre-station wagons and the little off-road vehicles came together via a long route that winds through suburbia and family lifestyles.
Especially popular with women, the SUV’s fill a need to transport a variety of people and equipment, and yet to feel sporty while being somewhat practical. Having switched from truck-chassis to car-chassis and back and forth, several styles are available for all sorts of budgets and efficiency requirements. The SUV’s get a bad rap from many safety studies, mostly due to poor handling and abusive drivers, who may be confused about off-road sports and the capability of the average SUV.
Jim Walczak analyzes the History of the SUV as “what once was old is new again” in a greatarticle, online. His opinion is that of an enthusiast for the styling changes the auto industry brings to the SUVs. The practical consumer seems to demand this style of car to meet a multitude of needs in one vehicle, along with our group-think of Americans or contemporaries who are outdoorsy and ready-for-anything, sporty, yet fashionable and comfortable. There is a“cultural milieu”for the SUV.
SUVs are the perfect choice for the urban wannabe outdoorsman, the mom who cannot stand to drive a “dustbuster” minivan, and the young and the restless. Image is everything. The PR for the SUVs covers it all – it dares us to be adventurous. They place the driver above the level of many small cars, and it is advantageous to view traffic from this height, although there are safety concerns for others – look out, below. Evidently there is something called a “blocker beam” equipped on the 2000 Excursions to prevent smaller cars from sliding under the front in a collision.
Maybe it is just sour grapes for those thrifty souls in the subcompacts, but they also must realize that many people actually do live in the country and travel roads that are often impossible to navigate in lesser cars. As sprawl and rural living have expanded, the commute has become more complicated. Many SUV drivers rationalize that they do not commute, but limit their driving into cities or running errands for their farms or ranches. These are the truly honest consumers of utility vehicles with 4-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, and can usually be determined by the amount of dirt on their wheels.
While many an “urban warrior” dude rides around in a spotless new black Suburban, there are many families that swear by their 15 year-old 4-Runner which can haul hay bales or kayaks. The early Jeep Wagoneers have morphed into suave and sophisticated Touaregs or Range Rovers with cushioned rides. The occasional Hummer on the road makes the gas mileage look great for the majority of SUVs. There is a size and a practicality for everyone. Most major auto manufacturers have a model or two. This type of vehicle is not just a fad, but a lifestyle for many.
