Which has larger blind spots, SUVs or sedans?
3 Answers
SUVs have larger front blind spots compared to sedans, but smaller rear blind spots. Below are relevant expanded details: Front of the vehicle: SUV models are taller than sedans, so the window line and hood of an SUV are also higher. If you connect and extend the SUV driver's line of sight with the hood, you'll find this line is longer than that of a sedan. If there are low objects in front of both a sedan and an SUV, the sedan driver would more easily spot them, while the SUV driver would find it relatively harder to notice. Rear of the vehicle: Due to their larger body size, SUVs actually have smaller blind spots in some aspects compared to sedans. The rear blind spot of an SUV is smaller than that of a sedan. The rear windshield of an SUV is mostly vertical in shape and has a larger area than that of a sedan. Additionally, SUVs don't have the "third compartment" that sedans do, so the rear visibility is relatively much better in SUVs compared to sedans.
As an ordinary driver with over a decade of experience behind the wheel, having driven both SUVs and sedans extensively, I've noticed that SUVs indeed have significantly larger blind spots compared to sedans. Their taller and wider bodies, along with design elements like thick A-pillars and bulky rear ends, often obstruct visibility. When making turns or changing lanes, it's sometimes impossible to see smaller vehicles or pedestrians completely in the rearview mirrors, leading to a few close calls with scratches. Now, whenever I drive an SUV, I make a point to be extra cautious—turning my head more to check blind spots and recommending others to install blind spot monitoring systems or adjust their mirror angles higher. Truth be told, it's not just SUVs; all vehicles have blind spots. However, opting for a sedan with its lower seating position offers a more open view, reducing blind spots and making for a more reassuring drive. Safety should always come first when driving, and developing the habit of regularly checking mirrors is truly essential.
As a mom, I'm particularly concerned about driving safety, especially when taking my kids out. When it comes to blind spots, SUVs definitely have more than sedans due to their higher chassis and larger body, creating many dead zones on the sides and rear. Driving in crowded urban areas or near schools, these blind spots can be especially dangerous, potentially obscuring children on bicycles. Our family SUV has had such a close call before, fortunately without incident. That's why I strongly recommend choosing models with surround-view cameras or paying extra attention to blind spot tests during test drives. While SUVs offer spacious interiors ideal for families, safety must be balanced—prioritize vehicles with smaller blind zones or consider adding safety devices.
