A crossover sport-utility vehicle, or SUV, is a vehicle built on a unibody car frame but which possesses many of the characteristics of the truck-based SUV. The Honda Element SUV, for example, is based on the Honda Civic platform.

Marketing

The term "crossover" is more of a marketing term than a practical identifier of SUVs, yet it has come mean owners "crossing over" from the more rugged and stiff SUV to a more moderate passenger car-style SUV.

No Off-Roading

Although it's possible that a crossover SUV can be used off the pavement, it's not designed for all-terrain driving. The crossover is strictly an on-pavement vehicle, according to crossoversuv.net.

Truck-Like Characteristics

The crossover possesses the high ground clearance and high-profile of a traditional SUV and is usually equipped with all-wheel drive.

Car-Like Features

The difference between the crossover and traditional SUV is that the crossover features independent rear suspension, a comfortable passenger car interior and better gas mileage, according to crossoversuv.net.

Crossover Vs. Traditional

The crossover's full-time all-wheel-drive differs from the traditional four-wheel-drive, which must be engaged by the driver.

Crossover SUV Types

Among many examples are the Audi Q5, which uses the Audi A4 car frame; the Jeep Patriot, which uses the Mitsubishi GS frame; the Nissan Rogue, which uses the Sentra frame; and the Toyota RAV4, which uses the frame of a Corolla.

Source:

Crossover SUVs Defined

Popular Mechanics List of Crossovers

Luxury Crossovers