Estate vs. SUV: which is better?
SUVs and estate cars are a great option for spacious motoring – but which one is right for you?
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Choosing between an SUV and an estate car has gotten even more difficult in recent years, as car manufacturers have focused on making these practical vehicles sleek and on-trend.
You no longer have to pick between practicality or looks – you can get both in one vehicle.
Deciding whether you’re more suited to SUV or estate car life will depend on a few things, but each has its benefits.
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What is an estate car?
An estate car is a vehicle that has an extended rear when compared to the hatchbacks they’re usually based on.
This gives the car an elongated look with plenty of space in the rear and boot section.
These are usually longer and sit lower than SUVs and can also be known as a station wagon.
Different manufacturers have other names for estate body styles, such as the used BMW Touring estate cars and used Audi Avant models we stock on our site.
Estates are a great option for extra space and are usually based on a hatchback model in the same range.
Popular choices are the SEAT Leon Estate, Volkswagen Passat Estate, and BMW 3 Series Touring.
Pros of an estate car
Loads of extra space
Sleek styling with a lower price tag than SUVs
Massive boots and spacious cabins
Light and low riding make for low running costs
Estate cars are a great option for extra space in a car that isn’t too bulky or oversized.
If you’re not a fan of the sporty and chunky feel of an SUV, an estate car might feel like a sleeker choice.
You’ll find that estate models have spacious boots and airy cabins, so are ideal for those of us who like to overpack.
The Skoda Superb Estate offers a massive 660 litres of boot space, which increases to 1,950 litres if you drop the rear seats.
As estate cars are often lighter and sit lower than SUV models, they’re usually more efficient on fuel or mile range.
This makes for lower running costs, and the current desirability of SUVs means that estates are usually cheaper to buy.
There’s also a huge range of estate cars currently on the market, available for all budgets.
You can even opt for a luxury model like the Mercedes C-Class Estate or the Audi A6 Avant, both offering premium styling, interior comfort and impressive tech.
Offerings like the Vauxhall Astra Estate and Skoda Octavia Estate can be more affordable options but they’re still enjoyable for daily use.
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What is an SUV?
SUVs are so popular right now and are dominating the car market. Standing for ‘Sports Utility Vehicle’, SUVs are cars that sit high off the ground and usually have some off-roading capabilities.
SUVs aren’t always as chunky and spacious as you might think – often they’re hatchback-style models boosted up on stilts for a higher driving position.
This doesn’t mean you’ll be cramped though, as there are plenty of spacious SUVs that offer large boots and comfortable cabins.
Popular SUV choices are the Range Rover Sport, Audi Q7 and the Volvo XC60.
Pros of an SUV
Plenty of four-wheel-drive models
A secure feel from the high ride height
Attention to style and design
Spacious and practical
While there are four-wheel-drive estate cars on the market, you’re far more likely to find SUVs with this capability.
This makes them ideal if you live off the beaten track, or just need something to contend with the muddy field at football practice.
Taking on all terrain in an SUV is made easier by the high driving position, allowing you a better view of the road and a feeling of stability.
This is the main difference you’ll feel between driving an SUV and an estate model.
SUVs have increased in popularity in recent years, becoming a style statement as opposed to just a functional car.
\This means there are plenty of models to choose from, many that focus on impressive design.
While style is down to personal preference, you might enjoy models like the Porsche Cayenne and Mercedes G-Class, or any of the classic Lange Rover options.
The attention to design doesn’t take away from the functionality of SUVs, as there’s still plenty of space and practicality on offer.
The Dacia Duster offers up to 478 litres of bootspace that can extend to 1,623 litres with the seats down, and the Peugeot 3008 can provide up to 520 litres and 1,482 litres with the seats dropped.
Verdict: estate vs. SUV: which should you buy?
Despite SUVs and estate cars both having their benefits, you shouldn’t find it a struggle to choose which model suits you best.
Estate models are the obvious choice for loads of space and handsome styling, while SUV options are not always as spacious but do offer more options with four-wheel drive.
You can also decide by debating where you like to be sat while you’re driving – close to the floor or high off the ground.
Choose an estate to skulk around low to the ground, or an SUV to get a great view of the road.
Price and budget can also be a deciding factor. Estate cars are usually cheaper than SUV models, but this will, of course, depend on the vehicles you choose.
There are plenty of budget SUV models on the market, so you don’t have to stick with an estate if your heart isn't in it.
SUV and estate models both have their benefits – you'll find that the perfect fit for you will come down to personal preference and needs.