Crossover vs Sedan: Which Type of Vehicle Can Handle Your Schenectady Travels?

June 16th, 2023 by

A green 2019 Ford Escape is shown from the side after leaving a used car dealer near Schenectady.

As your journey takes you throughout the quaint suburban city of Schenectady, whether you’re on the way to work or taking the kids to a local park, you deserve to travel in a vehicle that delivers everything you need in your ride. Living in Upstate New York is worth it, especially when you take in breathtaking views of the autumn leaves and enjoy winter wonderland experiences. Still, when it comes to navigating through traffic and arriving at your destination comfortably, you’ll want to ensure you have the right car by your side. Many drivers seek to buy used these days because they’re able to not only save money with their purchase but also take advantage of better features and models. If you’re looking for a used car dealer near Schenectady, DePaula Ford is it. Two of the main types of vehicles that appeal to our area drivers are crossovers and sedans, so when it comes to a crossover or sedan, which is right for you?

What Is a Crossover?

A crossover is a type of SUV that rides on a car-like platform, called unibody construction. This means that the vehicle’s frame and body are one combined unit, allowing these vehicles to exhibit the feeling of driving a car. This is something that appeals to many drivers who need more space in their vehicles but are concerned about being able to handle a larger model. Crossovers are great for a variety of different driving situations but mainly thrive on well-kept roadways, not rugged off-road environments. This is why they’re ideal for many area commuters.

Benefits of Crossovers

Crossovers are extremely beneficial to those concerned about fuel economy, seeing as they’re able to maximize the time required in between stops at the gas station, saving you money in the long run. Their small size makes them easy to handle around town, especially when you find yourself in dense traffic, and with car-like tendencies, you won’t feel very different in a crossover if you’re used to driving a sedan. Crossovers are also very practical and highly affordable, as opposed to their larger counterparts, and they also offer plenty of space for both passengers and gear, much more than a sedan is capable of providing. If you’re in need of a more spacious vehicle, one that is responsive and agile on the road, a crossover is a great choice and perfect for drivers just transitioning into SUV life.

Limitations of Crossovers

Crossovers are ideal for many drivers, but they’re not for everyone. If your budget is at the top of your list of priorities, you may find that it’s much more affordable to choose a smaller vehicle, like a sedan, over a crossover. Although crossovers get great gas mileage when compared to larger options, it’s difficult to compete with a sedan when fuel efficiency is at stake. If you’re searching for more room in your vehicle, crossovers may feel a bit cramped, and if adventuring is on the agenda, many crossovers aren’t equipped to handle the elements like their larger siblings can. Of course, you can’t beat a sedan when it comes to navigating into tight parking spaces or zipping through traffic, no matter how small the crossover happens to be that you’re driving.

A grey 2020 Honda CR-V is shown from the front at an angle.

Top Used Crossovers

At DePaula Ford, we seek to keep our used lot stocked with outstanding crossovers from some of the best brands in the industry to appeal to our Schenectady drivers. One of the best compact crossovers we offer is the Ford Escape, which showcases a stylish demeanor, spry handling, and a favorable sticker price. Ford reliability radiates throughout, and with plenty of exceptional tech and safety features, especially in newer models, the Escape is a top pick for many commuters, families, and everyday travelers. For those who desire high-end styling on a budget, the Mazda CX-30 is a great pick, equipped with elegance that you won’t find elsewhere and precise maneuverability through traffic due to its compact stature.

Those who are concerned about safety will find one of the best safety and assistance suites in the business, as well as a ruggedly durable build in the Subaru Forester. Not only do more recent Forester models come with standard all-wheel drive capabilities, this small-size traveler is perfectly capable of navigating the elements, especially when the ground beneath its tires becomes dangerous. Other top-level crossovers you’ll find for great prices used include the compact Honda CR-V, midsize Hyundai Santa Fe, and the small-size Kia Sportage.

Benefits of Sedans

Every driver knows what a sedan is, especially since sedans have been a dominant force on the streets for decades; however, as more crossovers and SUVs are emerging, the sedan has seemingly started to take a backseat to these well-equipped models. Although there are many competitors out there, you can’t compete against a sedan’s ability to offer a smooth and easy ride, top-level fuel efficiency, and loads of options from virtually every brand under the sun when buying used. Sedans come in various sizes with differing levels of trunk space and features, and with many sedans being able to be equipped with all-wheel drive capabilities, exploring anywhere in this famous type of vehicle is easier than ever now.

Limitations of Sedans

Sedans are some of the most affordable vehicles on the streets, but just like crossovers, they’re not for everyone, especially those who need more space in their cars for people and gear. Although many sedans showcase a favorable amount of cargo volume in their trunks, it doesn’t come close to what you’re able to take advantage of in larger vehicles, like crossovers and SUVs. Sedans also tend to be much lower to the ground than their big brothers, so visibility may be an issue. Plus, with any smaller vehicle, safety may be a concern, especially for parents who would much rather travel in a larger vehicle when carting around their brood.

A grey 2021 Honda Accord Hybrid is shown from the front at an angle.

Top Used Sedans

When it comes to the best sedans to check out if you’re looking to buy used, the midsize Honda Accord resides at the top of many lists. This practical and accommodating traveler isn’t just lively and refined on the road; it’s also spacious and fueled by legendary Honda reliability coursing through it. Another fan favorite is the midsize Toyota Camry, which features an exciting array of powertrains to choose from, including a hybrid in the mix, as well as a spacious trunk, available all-wheel drive capabilities, and outstanding safety features in newer models. Other top sedans that we recommend to our customers include the full-size Toyota Avalon, midsize Hyundai Sonata, and the pint-size Kia Forte.

Crossover or Sedan: Which Is Right for You?

Choosing the right vehicle for you depends on what your travels entail and what you require out of your vehicle. If you need more space in your vehicle yet still want to be able to maneuver your way effortlessly through traffic, a crossover may be the perfect choice for you. However, if you’re looking for maximum affordability, unmatched fuel economy, and easy driving dynamics, a sedan may be more tailored to your needs. Here at DePaula Ford, we help Schenectady drivers find their ideal vehicles that meet their needs and budgets because your enjoyment behind the wheel matters. Whether you’re in need of a vehicle for your family or an efficient commuter, there are plenty of crossovers and sedans in the used car inventory to appeal to you, making your Schenectady travels more invigorating than ever.