Honda Crossovers and SUVs in Elk Grove, CA

Difference Between a Honda Crossover and a Honda SUV | Elk Grove Honda


If you’ve been exploring Honda vehicles, you may have noticed that some models are referred to as crossovers, while others are called SUVs. At Elk Grove Honda, we often hear customers ask about the difference between a Honda crossover and a Honda SUV – and it’s a great question. Both vehicle types are versatile, stylish, and family-friendly, but they differ in how they’re built, how they drive, and the features they offer.

Whether you’re browsing our Honda crossover vehicles, like the Honda HR-V, or looking into rugged Honda SUVs, like the Honda Passport or Pilot, understanding these key differences can help you make the right choice for your lifestyle.

The Main Difference Between Crossovers and SUVs

Traditionally, crossovers were built using a unibody structure (like most vehicles), and older SUVs used a body-on-frame design. In today’s Honda lineup, both types deliver versatility, but you’ll still see differences in ride and capability.

Crossovers are built on a unibody frame, meaning the body and frame are one piece – similar to how most vehicles are designed. This gives them a lighter, smoother, and more fuel-efficient drive.

SUVs, on the other hand, traditionally use a body-on-frame design, where the vehicle’s body sits on a separate frame, similar to a truck. This makes them stronger and better for towing and off-road adventures.

Honda’s modern lineup blends both worlds beautifully, offering crossover vehicles that drive like vehicles but still deliver the capability and space of a true SUV.

Honda Crossovers: Compact, Efficient, and Fun to Drive

If you’re looking for something nimble and efficient, Honda crossovers are a great fit. They’re perfect for daily commutes, weekend getaways, and city driving.

At Elk Grove Honda, you’ll find the latest 2026 Honda crossover vehicles, including:

  • Honda HR-V: The HR-V is the most compact and efficient of Honda’s crossovers. Built on a car-based platform, it offers agile handling, great fuel economy, and a refined interior. The HR-V features a unibody design, standard front-wheel drive, and available all-wheel drive for added confidence on wet roads.
  • Honda CR-V: The CR-V is one of the most popular crossovers in the Honda lineup – and for good reason. It combines SUV-like space with car-like drivability. The 2026 Honda CR-V comes with an available hybrid powertrain, impressive cargo space, and advanced technology like Honda Sensing® safety features.

Both models are versatile, offering comfortable seating, great visibility, and smooth performance that makes them ideal for everyday driving.

Honda SUVs: Powerful, Spacious, And Adventure-Ready

If you need more power, capability, or space, a Honda SUV might be your best match. These models are designed to handle tougher conditions, offer all-wheel drive capability, and provide plenty of room for passengers and gear.

Two standout Honda SUVs available at Elk Grove Honda include:

  • Honda Passport: The 2026 Passport is built for adventure. With a rugged exterior design, V6 engine, and available Intelligent Variable Torque Management™ (i-VTM4®) All-Wheel-Drive System, it’s ready for both the city and the trail. Its off-road capabilities and towing capacity make it a great choice for drivers who love exploring beyond the pavement.
  • Honda Pilot: The 2026 Pilot is the largest Honda SUV, offering three rows of seating for up to eight passengers. It’s the ideal family SUV, featuring an upscale cabin, a powerful V6 engine, and a smooth, confident ride. It also includes advanced safety and driver-assist features as part of the Honda Sensing® suite.

When comparing crossovers versus SUVs, the Passport and Pilot stand out for their strength and versatility – great for road trips, carpools, and outdoor adventures.

Which One Should You Choose?

Choosing between a Honda crossover and a Honda SUV depends on how you plan to use your vehicle.

Choose a Honda Crossover if You Want:

  • Better Fuel Efficiency for Daily Driving
  • Car-Like Handling and Ride Comfort
  • Compact Size for Easy Parking
  • Stylish Design and Great Tech Features

Choose a Honda SUV if You Need:

  • More Power and Towing Capacity
  • Spacious Interiors with Three Rows of Seating
  • All-Wheel Drive for Off-Road or All-Weather Capability
  • More Cargo Space for Family Trips or Equipment

Both offer the reliability and innovation Honda is known for, so there’s no wrong choice – it’s just about finding the right fit for your driving habits.

Test Drive a Honda Crossover or SUV in Elk Grove

Still not sure which model fits your lifestyle? The best way to tell is by scheduling a test drive at Elk Grove Honda. Experience the smooth comfort of the 2026 Honda CR-V, the sporty practicality of the HR-V, or the power and space of the Pilot and Passport firsthand.

You can search our online inventory for vehicles or stop by our Honda dealership in Elk Grove, CA, to explore the full 2026 lineup. Our friendly team will help you compare models, answer your questions, and guide you toward your ideal Honda crossover or SUV.

Explore Honda’s Lineup at Elk Grove Honda

Whether you’re browsing crossovers or SUVs, you’ll find the right Honda vehicle for your needs here. From the city-friendly HR-V to the family-sized Pilot, every Honda offers exceptional reliability, smart design, and advanced safety.

Visit Elk Grove Honda today or search our inventory online to see the latest 2026 Honda crossover vehicles and SUVs. Let’s find your perfect match and get you behind the wheel of your next great Honda drive.

Disclaimer: This content was drafted with AI assistance for initial drafting, reviewed by a subject-matter expert for accuracy, and edited by our team of writers and editors.