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What is a CUV vs SUV car, and do they need different tyres?

Ever wondered the differences between a CUV vs SUV car? Learn more about these great family cars, and discover the factors you should consider before buying CUV tyres or SUV tyres.
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What is the difference between CUVs and SUVs?

Most people refer to a group of vehicles as SUVs – and that often includes CUVs (also known as crossovers). Thanks to advancements in vehicle design and technology, SUVs and CUVs have similar ranges of high performance, storage capacity, superior handling on- and off-road, and fuel-efficiency.

However, there are still some technical differences that can impact each car’s handling, performance, fuel consumption, and even the tyres you choose.

  • ‎What is an SUV?

    SUV stands for sport utility vehicle. Some popular SUV models include the Toyota Harrier, Volkswagen Tiguan, and the Honda Vezel. SUVs entered the market to provide drivers the comfort of a passenger car with the strength and power of a pickup truck. Mid to large SUVs are capable of hauling, towing, and serious off-roading.

    SUVs are built on the chassis and frame of a pickup truck (and often adopt the same body-on-frame), which means that they often sit higher and are heavier than other cars.

    Are SUVs similar to 4x4 cars?

    There is a lot of overlap between SUVs and 4x4s. 4x4 – or 4WD cars – simply refers to vehicles that have four-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.

    SUVs, CUVs, and several other types of vehicles are designed for 4x4 driving. For example, a Jeep Wrangler is technically a mid-size 4-wheel drive off-road SUV. If you’re driving a 4x4, you will want tyres that can provide better grip and durability for when you’re off-roading.

  • ‎What is a CUV?

    CUV means “crossover utility vehicle”. CUVs – or crossovers – combine a sedan’s compactness with an SUV’s storage space and high performance, like the Mazda CX-5, Honda CR-V, and Subaru Forester. However, CUVs are often built on the chassis of a car. To get a bit technical, a crossover uses a unibody chassis where the body and frame are integrated.

    The range and market segment of CUVs has expanded greatly. You can now find crossovers that have excellent performance on whatever terrain you choose, with great fuel efficiency! CUVs are also often easier to drive for people more comfortable in cars, especially when it comes to navigating a car park.

    If you live predominantly in the city but like the performance, safety and spaciousness of an SUV, a crossover or CUV is the car you’re looking for.

What is an MPV and is that similar to SUVs and CUVs?

MPV is short for ‘multi-purpose vehicle’, and refers to what you might call a minivan. They were the most popular family car before SUVs and CUVs started sweeping the market. Some familiar sightings would be the Toyota Alphard, Honda Freed, and BMW Active Tourer. MPVs are front-wheel drive, sit low to the ground, and provide more space and passenger comfort without the inconvenience of a van. They are usually good for large families, but can be more difficult to handle than SUVs and CUVs.

SUV tyres vs CUV tyres

SUVs are usually bigger and heavier vehicles than CUVs. This means that the OE tyres that they come with the vehicle may be different in terms of price, performance, durability, and the load they are made to handle.

Meanwhile, CUV tyres are expected to handle a level of utility, with added comfort and sophistication. Not all CUVs are suitable for off-roading, so an all-terrain tyre will not be necessary.

What should I consider when looking for new SUV tyres or CUV tyres?

Whether you want original tyres or wish to explore aftermarket options, there are several great choices available. However, SUV tyres and CUV tyres both tend to do a lot more work than your average car tyres. We recommend you always choose tyres that match your manufacturer’s recommendations. Getting the proper tyres can ensure the best performance from your vehicle.

Safety. Drivers in tropical climates don’t have to worry about winter vs summer vs all-weather tyres. However, a factor about SUV tyres Singapore drivers often overlook is your tyre’s performance in heavy rainfall and during off-roading, especially with the very real dangers of hydroplaning.

Michelin highly recommends that you always keep all four tyres the same make and model, and change them at the same time for greater safety and comfort.

Find the right Michelin tyres for your SUV or CUV

Michelin tyres are designed to deliver superior performance, no matter what you drive. For example, our Primacy series includes the Primacy 4 SUV and Primacy SUV +, which are compatible with SUVs, CUVs, and 4x4s.

If you’re unsure about which CUV or SUV tyres are available in Singapore for your vehicle, you can get further advice from one of our authorised dealers. Use our tyre dealer locator today to find a tyre shop near you.

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