6 Types of SUVs You Should Know Before Buying

Many people choose a Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) as their daily vehicle because of its versatile use. This type of car offers comfort for city driving while also delivering toughness when taken to more challenging natural terrains.

With its larger size, powerful engine performance, and complete supporting features, an SUV can meet the needs of drivers with a dynamic lifestyle. Today, many electric SUVs have also become modern mobility solutions, such as the Chery J6, Tiggo 8 CSH, and Chery E5.

Although SUVs are suitable for both paved roads and semi off-road driving, the way you handle an SUV in city traffic is certainly different from when driving through natural trails. Each terrain requires its own driving techniques to ensure safety, efficiency, and enjoyment.

Let’s explore some useful tips for driving an SUV properly, whether you’re navigating busy city traffic or embarking on an outdoor adventure.

Tips for Driving an SUV in the City

When driving an SUV in urban areas, there are several things to pay attention to, as this type of vehicle has different characteristics compared to city cars like hatchbacks or sedans. Here are some tips for driving an SUV safely and comfortably on city roads:

Adjust Seating Position and Visibility

SUVs have a taller body compared to sleek sedans. Therefore, drivers need to adjust their seat position and height to ensure better visibility to the front and sides. The right seating position helps you control the vehicle comfortably while minimizing blind spots.

Anticipate Longer Braking Distance

When driving an SUV in the city, always maintain a longer braking distance. The heavier weight of an SUV compared to a sedan often results in longer braking. Anticipate this by avoiding sudden braking. Instead, assess the road conditions ahead early so you can brake at the right timing.

Maintain a Steady Speed

In congested city traffic, avoid sudden acceleration or braking. Besides surprising other drivers, this can also make passengers feel uncomfortable and waste more fuel. Keep your vehicle running at a steady speed for safety and better fuel efficiency.

Use the Start-Stop System Feature

Modern SUVs are usually equipped with a start-stop system. This feature automatically turns off the engine when the vehicle stops in traffic or at a red light, then restarts it when the gas pedal is pressed. This helps save fuel, especially in heavy traffic conditions.

Use Parking Assist/360° Camera in Tight Spaces

The large body of an SUV often makes it difficult to maneuver in narrow areas or when parallel parking. Use the assistance of a 360° camera or parking sensors to better monitor your surroundings. These features are very helpful in preventing collisions with other vehicles or objects.

Use Engine Braking

When reducing speed in heavy traffic, make use of the transmission for engine braking. Engine braking helps drivers better control the vehicle on crowded city roads. It also allows smoother braking and helps prevent brake pads from wearing out quickly.

Be Cautious on Sharp Turns

SUVs with a taller body are more prone to body roll when taking sharp turns. When driving on city roads with many intersections or curves, this is something you need to watch out for. Reduce your speed before entering a turn to keep the vehicle stable and easy to control.

Activate Eco Mode

If your SUV is equipped with Eco Mode, activate this feature when driving in the city. Eco Mode adjusts engine and transmission performance for more efficient fuel consumption, especially in stop-and-go traffic.

Tips for Driving an SUV on Natural Terrain/Semi Off-road

Driving an SUV on natural terrain requires special techniques—it’s not just about getting behind the wheel. Semi off-road conditions present unique challenges that can be risky if the driver is inexperienced or unfamiliar with proper driving techniques. Here are some tips for driving an SUV safely and comfortably on natural terrain:

Check Ground Clearance and Tire Condition

Before taking your SUV off-road, check its ground clearance and tire condition. High ground clearance helps prevent the underbody from scraping against rocks or uneven surfaces. Use tires with proper air pressure and good tread to ensure optimal traction on dirt or gravel roads.

Use the Driving Mode According to the Terrain

Modern SUVs usually come with driving modes such as Mud, Gravel, or Snow. Select the most suitable mode for the terrain to maximize performance and maintain comfort. If you’re driving on highways before reaching off-road areas, activate Eco Mode for more efficient travel before switching to semi off-road settings.

Control Speed on Rocky or Dirt Roads

When driving on rocky, dirt, or uneven surfaces, avoid high speeds. Let the suspension work optimally by maintaining a steady pace and avoiding aggressive driving. Driving slowly also reduces the risk of tire or undercarriage damage.

Be Cautious of Water Crossings and Check Water Wading Capability

Not all SUVs have the same water wading capacity. Crossing deep water can damage electrical systems or the engine. Before driving through puddles or shallow streams, ensure your vehicle’s water resistance matches the manufacturer’s specifications.

Avoid Overloading the Vehicle

Carrying excessive loads while driving on natural terrain can cause the SUV to lose balance, especially on uneven surfaces. Overloading also strains the suspension and reduces tire traction. Bring only essential gear to keep the vehicle stable and safe in semi off-road conditions.

Use Low Gear on Steep Ascents or Descents

If your SUV has a manual mode or low gear, use it when climbing or descending steep roads. This helps maintain stable engine power and prevents excessive braking, which can overheat the brakes.

Pay Attention to Approach and Departure Angles

SUVs have limitations when navigating steep inclines or declines. Make sure your vehicle’s approach and departure angles are adequate to avoid the bumpers getting stuck or hitting the ground/rocks.

Take Advantage of Driver Assistance Features

Many modern SUVs are equipped with features that are very useful in semi off-road conditions—for example, hill descent control when going down steep slopes or traction control to prevent wheel slippage. Activate these support features when facing challenging terrain.

That concludes the tips for driving an SUV in urban areas as well as on natural or semi off-road terrain. SUVs are an excellent choice for those who need a versatile vehicle—comfortable on city streets yet tough enough for the outdoors. With the tips above, you can drive your SUV more safely, comfortably, and enjoyably across various terrains.

If you are looking for a vehicle that suits these needs, Chery’s range of modern SUVs can be the ideal choice. With stylish design, advanced technology, and reliable performance, these vehicles are ready to support your lifestyle. Check out the full specifications of the Chery J5 electric SUV and other variants at chery.co.id.

Amid the day-to-day busyness of work and business, many people take advantage of their free time to go on road trips to nature. This city-to-nature lifestyle trend is becoming increasingly popular among office workers and urban families. They often plan trips by car to the mountains, beaches, or countryside.

To support these needs, of course, you need a tough and reliable SUV. The Chery J6 comes as the first off-road EV in Indonesia, capable of tackling various terrains. This electric J6 SUV is designed to be a comfortable vehicle both on city roads and in the great outdoors.

Equipped with advanced technology, powerful performance, and a modern design, the J6 is perfect for those who want a vehicle for daily mobility as well as adventure. Here are some reasons why the electric J6 SUV is the ideal choice for a city-to-nature lifestyle.

Stylish Design for a City Lifestyle

One of the main reasons the J6 SUV is so highly sought after is its elegant and modern design. Its exterior exudes a premium feel with sharp lines and bold proportions, making it stand out impressively on city streets. For young professionals who value lifestyle, the J6 projects both a stylish and sporty image.

This electric SUV adopts a “Fashion Cube Box” design and utilizes an all-aluminum structure that conveys a strong yet aesthetic character. The vehicle measures 4,406 mm x 1,910 mm x 1,715 mm with a 190 mm ground clearance, offering a spacious cabin suitable for a family car.

The interior carries a modern ambiance with premium materials, an ergonomic layout, and a complete entertainment system. The J6’s cabin provides 36 storage compartments and a luggage capacity of 450 liters (expandable up to 1,238 liters), delivering both comfort and functionality for an urban lifestyle.

Rugged Body for All Terrains

Despite its stylish appearance, the J6 electric SUV is also engineered with a rugged body to tackle challenging terrains. With a ground clearance of 223 mm when unladen and 195 mm when fully loaded, this vehicle is ready to take on rocky paths, mountain trails, and semi off-road conditions.

The J6 also boasts a water wading capability of up to 600 mm, along with 28° approach and 32° departure angles. These advantages make it safe to drive across steep terrain and through water obstacles. Its battery is equipped with IP67, IPX8, and IPX9K protection, ensuring resistance against submersion and high water pressure.

The J6’s suspension system is built for strength and stability, featuring an aluminum H-Arm, MacPherson strut at the front, and multi-link suspension at the rear. This setup delivers both stability and comfort when driving over uneven, rocky, or rough surfaces.

Reliable Performance for Outdoor Adventures

The J6 delivers reliable performance with two drivetrain options: RWD and the more powerful iWD. The iWD variant produces up to 279 PS with 385 Nm of torque, while the RWD variant delivers 184 PS and 220 Nm of torque. With such power, this SUV is more than capable of tackling tough terrains.

Both variants are also equipped with a Drive Mode system to adapt driving styles to different conditions. The iWD version offers more driving modes, including Eco, Normal, Sport, Custom, All Road, Slippery, Beach, and Muddy, while the RWD supports four modes: Eco, Normal, Sport, and Custom.

With its powerful performance and stable handling, drivers can feel more confident taking the J6 beyond the city. Whether for a road trip with friends, a family camping adventure, or a short getaway, the J6 ensures safety and comfort across diverse driving conditions.

Large-Capacity Battery for Long-Distance Journeys

To support long-distance mobility, the Chery J6 is equipped with a large-capacity battery. The RWD variant comes with a 65.69 kWh battery offering a range of up to 426 km, while the AWD variant carries a 69.77 kWh battery with a range of up to 418 km.

This substantial battery capacity provides peace of mind for drivers, especially those who often travel out of town, explore nature, and embark on long trips. With the J6, you can confidently go the distance without worrying about running out of power along the way.

Modern Technology and Advanced Features

Technology is one of the standout strengths offered by the Chery J6 SUV. This electric vehicle is equipped with a wide range of modern and advanced features designed to provide maximum comfort for its users on every journey.

The available features cater to today’s digital lifestyle needs, including a 15.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone connectivity, an Intelligent Voice Assistant, and a 9.2-inch digital cluster meter with navigation. To further enhance the driving experience, the J6 also comes with a dual panoramic sunroof.

What makes it even more interesting is that the J6 is also equipped with a Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) function with a 3.3 kW output. This feature allows the car to serve as an external power source for running various electronic devices such as electric stoves, coffee machines, lamps, and more. It becomes especially useful when traveling or camping outdoors.

Comfort for Families and Communities

The J6 is not only a stylish and rugged SUV, but it is also designed as a family-friendly vehicle. With a spacious cabin, generous luggage capacity, and ergonomic seating, this SUV delivers maximum comfort for passengers during long trips out of town.

In addition, the J6 is perfect for those who are active in communities—whether automotive clubs or hobby groups such as camping or traveling. Its ample storage space allows you and your companions to bring outdoor gear with ease. Meanwhile, the in-cabin entertainment features help keep the atmosphere enjoyable throughout the journey.

From a safety perspective, the J6 is equipped with ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System), which includes Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keeping Assist, Blind Spot Monitoring, a 360° camera, parking sensors, ABS, EBD, Hill Start Assist, and Hill Descent Control. All these features ensure a safe driving experience across various road conditions.

J6 SUV Ready to Be Your City-to-Nature Lifestyle Partner

With its impressive specifications and advantages, the J6 electric SUV is the perfect combination of style, performance, technology, and comfort. In the city, this EV stands out as a stylish vehicle that supports modern mobility. When taken out of town, the J6 delivers robust performance, ready to tackle a variety of terrains.

For those looking to balance busy work life with outdoor exploration, the J6 is clearly the right choice. Discover the full specifications of the J6 and other Chery SUVs in more detail at chery.co.id.

Amid the hustle and bustle of city life, a new group has emerged known as the Modern Urban Explorer. These are people who go about their daily activities in the city but still crave light adventures such as weekend getaways, short road trips, or camping near urban areas. This lifestyle demands a vehicle that is not only comfortable for city driving but also tough enough to handle hilly routes or rocky paths leading to natural destinations.

This is where electric SUVs come in as the perfect solution. More than just a future-forward, eco-friendly mobility trend, today’s electric SUVs are designed with stylish exteriors, spacious cabins, and cutting-edge technology to support modern mobility. This combination makes them more than just a mode of transportation, they are a lifestyle statement that represents freedom and practicality.

So, what makes electric SUVs the ultimate partner for Modern Urban Explorers? Here are five key reasons why these vehicles are becoming increasingly relevant for those seeking a balance between urban comfort and a touch of adventure.

1. Eco-Friendly and Exempt from Traffic Restrictions

As zero-emission vehicles, electric SUVs are an ideal choice for urban explorers who care about sustainability while enjoying the freedom to drive in major cities. In Jakarta, for example, electric vehicles are exempt from the odd-even traffic regulation, based on Governor Regulation No. 88 of 2019. This makes owning an electric SUV even more appealing, as urban explorers can roam freely without worrying about such restrictions.

2. Comfortable for City Driving, Tough Enough for Light Adventures

Most electric SUVs are designed with high ground clearance and stable handling, making them increasingly popular, as noted by Yannes Martinus Pasaribu, an automotive expert and academic at the Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB).

Take the Chery J6, for instance, it offers 190 mm of ground clearance when unloaded and 170 mm when fully loaded. This makes it ideal not only for daily city commutes but also for tackling rocky off-road paths, inclines, or shallow water crossings. Its versatility is further enhanced by multiple Intelligent Wheel Drive modes that can be adjusted according to road conditions, answering the needs of urban explorers who require flexibility.

3. Modern Design: Stylish and Functional

Electric SUVs come with futuristic designs that are not only visually captivating but also functional, thanks to spacious cabins and ample cargo space for exploration gear. Coupled with powerful electric motors and relatively lightweight builds, they offer agile maneuverability and a smooth driving experience.

This makes electric SUVs the complete package: stylish on city streets, practical for carrying outdoor essentials, and comfortable for long journeys.

4. Smart Technology for Comfort and Safety

Equipped with advanced features like ADAS and digital connectivity, electric SUVs provide both safety and convenience for every trip.

For example, the Chery J6 is fitted with at least 15 advanced safety and driver-assist features, six airbags, and a 540-degree camera. Comfort is further elevated with ventilated seats and massage functions (IWD variant), while entertainment is enhanced with a premium 12-speaker Infinity audio system (IWD variant) and an electric panoramic sunroof that adds spaciousness to road trips.

5. Powerful Performance with Whisper-Quiet Rides

For modern urban explorers, power and peace are equally important. With instant torque, electric motors deliver responsive acceleration that feels agile both in city traffic and on steep routes. Plus, the absence of engine noise provides a calm, enjoyable driving experience. It is a clear advantage of electric SUVs over conventional SUVs.

Recommended Electric SUV for Urban Explorers: Chery J6

One of the most talked-about electric SUVs today is the Chery J6, which combines stylish design, powerful performance, and driving comfort in a single package.

Bold and modern boxy luxury off-road styling, compact front bumper, and high ground clearance to avoid scraping on rough terrain. The matte black bumper adds durability against minor scratches, while over-fenders and body molding emphasize its rugged SUV character. Extra rear storage compartments make it practical for carrying travel gear.

Chery J6 is available in two versions: an IWD variant with dual electric motors producing 279 PS, and an RWD variant with 184 PS. Both come with Intelligent Wheel Drive, automatically adjusting traction to match road conditions. Tests on off-road tracks highlight the advantage of the “All Road” mode, ensuring adaptability across surfaces, while electric power steering provides both comfort and precision. With 385 Nm of torque, it accelerates from 0–100 km/h in just 6.5 seconds, with a top speed of 150 km/h. Powered by a 70 kWh electric car battery, it delivers up to 430 km of driving range, ideal for long explorations without range anxiety.

The interior is designed by dual-tone leather seats with massage functions (AWD variant), electric panoramic sunroof, dual-zone AC with PM 2.5 filter, Infinity speakers, and extra storage compartments for better organization. The safety included six airbags, multi-layer battery safety protection, aluminum H-Arm suspension, and J6 battery shield for added security in all conditions.

Talking about aftersales, Chery J6 offers a few of benefits:

• Free maintenance for 5 years/75,000 km (including labor and parts)
• 8-year/180,000 km battery warranty (with lifetime option)
• 6-year/160,000 km vehicle warranty
• 3-year free road assistance

With all these advantages, it’s no wonder that the Chery J6 is widely regarded by reviewers as more than just an iconic SUV, it’s also a reliable performer for both city roads and light off-road adventures, perfectly in line with the lifestyle of modern urban explorers.

If you consider yourself a Modern Urban Explorer, now is the time to embrace an electric SUV as your go-to vehicle: stylish for the city, eco-friendly with zero emissions, cost-efficient, and packed with advanced technology and powerful performance.

The Chery J6 is a prime example of how an electric SUV delivers the full package. Experience it for yourself by booking a test drive at your nearest Chery dealer today.