Despite growing concerns about their impact on pedestrian safety, sport utility vehicles (SUVs) continue to be the most desirable vehicle type for a third of British drivers, according to recent reports. Sales figures indicate that seven of the UK's ten best-selling car models are now SUVs, a stark contrast to two decades ago when none featured on the list.
New car sales data reveals that SUVs now constitute more than half of all new car models available in UK showrooms. A poll of 1,000 UK motorists found that one in three would choose an SUV if cost were not a factor, surpassing convertibles and coupes in desirability. In Greater London, SUVs have become the most common vehicle category, with 31% of respondents owning one, compared to 21% driving traditional hatchbacks. Female drivers showed a particular preference, with 36% opting for an SUV if budget was unlimited, versus 30% of men.
Reasons for Popularity
Drivers cited practicality and family-friendly features as the primary drivers of SUV popularity. Forty-three percent pointed to suitability for family life, followed by a higher driving position (38%), comfort (37%), and greater interior space (34%). Status-symbol appeal was also a significant factor for 30% of respondents.
A study by vehicle sales platform CarGurus identified 193 SUV and crossover variants across the UK's most popular car brands, representing 52% of all new car model options. This figure represents a 543% increase since 2000. Official registration data further supports this trend, showing SUVs have overtaken superminis to become the UK's most popular vehicle segment, accounting for over a third of new car sales.
Safety Perceptions and Concerns
Despite their popularity, a significant contradiction exists in how motorists perceive SUV safety. Three in five respondents believe larger vehicles offer greater protection to occupants. However, nearly half (45%) also believe SUVs pose a greater danger to pedestrians, cyclists, and other vulnerable road users. Matthew Avery, director of strategic development at Euro NCAP, noted that drivers often prioritize self-protection, feeling safer in higher-seated, larger vehicles.
Concerns are particularly acute regarding visibility. Eloise Sacares, senior vehicle policy researcher at Transport & Environment, highlighted that high bonnets on SUVs can obstruct a driver's view of children. Analysis suggests that certain models, like the Land Rover Defender, may not see children as short as 4.5 years old due to their elevated driving position and bonnet height. Studies also indicate that SUVs may increase the fatality rate for pedestrians, as they are more likely to be pulled under the vehicle. A report by Transport & Environment predicts that under current trends, child pedestrian fatalities in collisions could increase by 40% annually by 2040.
Data from the VIAS Institute shows that a vehicle with a bonnet 10cm higher than average increases the risk of fatal injury for a pedestrian or cyclist by 30%. Car manufacturers, such as JLR, assert their vehicles meet high safety standards and incorporate advanced features like pedestrian detection and autonomous emergency braking.
However, driver concerns persist. A survey by IAM RoadSmart revealed that one in five motorists would support a ban on SUVs entering city centers due to perceived risks to vulnerable road users. Transport & Environment has also warned that the increasing size of SUVs could reduce kerbside parking spaces in UK towns and cities by 10% by 2040, potentially eliminating around 100,000 roadside bays in London alone.
National Accident Helpline reports handling over 7,736 road traffic accident enquiries since 2025, with pedestrian and cyclist claims forming nearly a quarter of these. John Kushnick, legal director at National Accident Helpline, expressed concern that the rise of SUVs, particularly in suburban areas and school zones, heightens risks for vulnerable road users due to blind spots and higher leading edges of bonnets.