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Jeep Compass Outside The SUV List? While Fiat Argo And Renault Kwid Are Classified As Sport Utility Vehicles, Inmetro Criteria Surprise And Confuse Consumers. The Technical Rules Challenge Popular Perceptions About What Is A True SUV.
The official classification of automobiles in Brazil has undergone a surprising transformation that promises to shake the perception of many consumers.
Who could imagine that compact cars like the Fiat Argo and the Renault Kwid could be considered SUVs, while robust models like the Jeep Compass and Toyota Corolla Cross would be left off this list?
This change is the result of strict criteria established by Inmetro, and the results are certainly shocking.
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The Inmetro Classification And Its Criteria
According to the agency responsible for the Brazilian Vehicle Labeling Program (PBVE), the classification of SUVs in Brazil follows well-defined technical parameters and also considers energy efficiency and consumption.
Among the requirements for a model to be considered a sport utility vehicle are:
- Minimum entry angle of 23° (tolerance of 1°);
- Minimum exit angle of 20° (tolerance of 1°);
- Minimum ramp transit angle of 10° (with a margin of error of 1°);
- Minimum ground clearance of 20 cm (with a tolerance of 2 cm);
- Minimum ground clearance under the front and rear axles of 18 cm (tolerance of 2 cm).
With these rules, many models that would traditionally be classified as SUVs due to their aesthetics and size do not meet Inmetro’s criteria.
Examples include the Jeep Compass and the Toyota Corolla Cross, which are now classified under other categories.
Compact Cars That Surprise As SUVs
Among the biggest highlights of this review is the Fiat Argo.
Although it is widely known as a compact hatch, it meets the technical requirements set by Inmetro and is therefore officially classified as a compact SUV.
The same goes for the Renault Kwid, which is another example of a model that challenges market expectations.
Other models that fall into this category, even if they are traditionally perceived as hatches, include:
- Citroën C3;
- Renault Sandero.
Models That “Look” Like SUVs, But Are Not
Meanwhile, several cars that showcase the imposing appearance of sport utility vehicles do not meet the technical requirements needed.
According to Inmetro’s analysis, these models are classified into other categories, such as “medium,” “large,” or “extra-large.” Examples include:
Medium:
- Volvo EX30.
Large:
- BMW iX1;
- BMW iX2;
- Honda ZR-V;
- Kia Niro;
- Lexus UX250h;
- Mercedes-Benz GLA200;
- Toyota Corolla Cross;
- Volvo C40.
Extra-Large:
- Audi Q5;
- Audi Q8;
- BMW iX5;
- BYD Tan;
- BYD Song Pro;
- Chevrolet Equinox;
- Chevrolet Blazer EV;
- Ford Territory;
- Jaguar i-Pace;
- Lexus RX500h;
- Mercedes-Benz GLB;
- Porsche Macan;
- Toyota RAV4;
- Volkswagen Tiguan.
These results show that appearances can be deceiving. Even cars widely promoted as SUVs by manufacturers may fail to meet the official requirements for that classification.
Impact On Consumers And Manufacturers
The new guidelines from Inmetro present a challenge for both manufacturers and consumers.
For companies, it may be necessary to rethink marketing strategies and the names used in model launches.
On the other hand, consumers need to pay attention to the objective criteria, especially when choosing a car that meets their specific needs, such as off-road conditions.
Furthermore, this new classification may even influence the taxes and fees associated with vehicles, reinforcing the importance of understanding the standards established by Inmetro.
What To Expect For The Future?
With the increasing adoption of innovative technologies and designs in the automotive industry, it is possible that more models traditionally classified in categories such as hatch or sedan may eventually meet the requirements to be considered SUVs.
The impact of these changes on the automotive market is uncertain, but it will certainly be a topic of discussion in the coming years.
And you, what do you think about this turnaround in car classification in Brazil? Does the Fiat Argo as an SUV make sense to you? Share your opinion in the comments!
Provavelmente essa mudança é para cobrar mais impostos. Esse governo só pensa em cobrar mais impostos, nada para ajudar o trabalhador. Gostam de meter a mão no bolso do cidadão.
Se o Argo é considerado um SUV, o meu Palio também!!!
Os funcionários do imetro deviam passa por uma reciclagem mental, porque a meu ver la só trabalham loucos e dementes, e quem não tem o que fazer na vida, pessoas sem a menor capacidade de avaliar algo insignificante, por causa desses inerguminos perdi a compra do meu novo carro por causa desses incompetentes sem a menor capacidade de reger ao menos a vida deles próprios aqui fica a minha indignação sobre esses bandos de incapazes de diferenciar um elefante de uma formiga.