SUVs and pickups are taking over the market—But why?

If you’ve noticed more SUVs and pickups on the road lately, you’re not alone. It feels like everywhere you look, more people are driving them, and they are becoming the go-to choice over sedans, and you’ve probably wondered why.

Looking at sales from the first half of 2024, it's easy to see that more and more car buyers are choosing SUVs and pickups over sedans and hatchbacks. The numbers speak for themselves: the Ford Ranger reported 343 sales with a 6.62% market share, while the Ford Everest followed closely with 316 units sold, making up 6.09%, and the Ford Territory, which saw 237 units sold in H1 2024.   

With these figures from AutoDeal, the trend is clear, larger vehicles like the Mitsubishi Montero Sport, with 233 units sold, and the Nissan Navara, with 231, are gaining popularity among drivers. So, what’s driving this trend? Here are some reasons behind the growing popularity of SUVs and pickups.

Probably one of the biggest reasons people are leaning toward SUVs and pickups is how they look. Vehicles like the Ford Ranger, for example, stand out with their "handsome" look. The Ranger’s wide front grille, C-clamp headlights, and wider track make it look strong and ready for anything. Buyers are more likely drawn to this aggressive appearance on the road, which is something most sedans simply don’t offer.

The Ford Everest is another example. A seven-seater SUV that carries that same tough, stylish look, the Everest's updated design with the wider stance and sleek lines gives it a polished, yet strong appearance. It’s no surprise that SUVs like the Everest, which sold 316 units in 2024, are getting more attention than the common sedan or hatchback. People want cars that not only perform well but also turn heads on the road.

Advanced technology is no longer limited to luxury cars, and SUVs and pickups are leading the way in making these features more accessible. So, another reason people are choosing SUVs and pickups over sedans is the technology they offer. Cars like the Ford Territory and Ford Everest are packed with smart features that make driving easier. The Territory comes with driver assistance features like adaptive cruise control and forward collision warning, which provide extra safety and convenience, especially on busy roads.

The Ford Everest also excels in this category, giving a similar set of tech features, including a 360-degree camera and digital instrument cluster. Buyers get features like wireless charging and keyless entry, making everyday driving easier and more convenient. This level of technology used to be limited to premium luxury cars, but now even mid-tier SUVs like the Everest and Territory offer it as standard.

When you choose an SUV or a pickup, you are also getting plenty of space and comfort. The Nissan Navara, for instance, provides great comfort even with its rugged frame. It has all-terrain tires and a five-link rear suspension that not only drives well through rough roads but keeps everyone inside comfortable, which is why it’s becoming a popular option.

Similarly, the Ford Everest offers a spacious interior with features like dual-zone climate control and wireless charging. Even though these vehicles are created to drive against rough conditions, the interiors are built to make sure both the driver and passengers have a comfortable ride. People are probably realizing they don’t need to sacrifice comfort for capability, which is a big reason they’re moving away from sedans.

Fuel efficiency is often seen as a big plus for sedans, but SUVs and pickups are closing that gap. The Mitsubishi Montero Sport, for example, is known for its fuel-efficient 2.4-liter turbo diesel engine that still brings strong performance. With 179 hp and 430 Nm of torque, it can endure long drives without costing too much at the pump, making it a realistic choice for everyday driving or road trips.

For many buyers, safety is one of the biggest factors when choosing a vehicle, and SUVs and pickups are clearly on top of the choices in this aspect. The Ford Everest comes with advanced safety systems like lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and forward collision warning, giving drivers extra peace of mind on the road. With these features, you're getting advanced safety support to help prevent accidents.

On the other hand, the Nissan Navara also comes equipped with essential safety features like multiple airbags, anti-lock braking systems, and electronic stability control. The Navara even offers an around-view monitor that helps drivers see potential hazards in real time. As safety becomes more of a priority for drivers, these systems make SUVs and pickups the more attractive choice.

So, what’s it going to be? Will your next ride be an SUV or pickup, or are you sticking to being a proud sedan loyalist? Either way, feel free to take a look at the models mentioned and explore more options through the AutoDeal Car Guide. Once you’ve found the right match, just hit the ‘Get Quote’ button to connect with a sales agent. It’s an easy way to shop for your new car, and with plenty of exclusive offers on select models, you could even save some cash in the process.