terepjáró

A terepjáró, commonly known in English as an SUV (Sport Utility Vehicle) or off-road vehicle, is a type of car designed to be capable of off-road driving. These vehicles typically feature four-wheel drive, a higher ground clearance than standard passenger cars, and a robust chassis construction to withstand rough terrain. The term "terepjáró" itself translates to "terrain walker" or "off-roader" in Hungarian.

Historically, the development of terepjárók was influenced by military needs, leading to the creation of durable and versatile vehicles. Over time, their popularity grew beyond military and utilitarian applications, and manufacturers began producing models that blended off-road capability with greater comfort and features suitable for everyday use. This evolution has led to a wide spectrum of vehicles categorized as terepjárók, from rugged, purpose-built machines to more comfort-oriented crossovers with some off-road pretensions.

Key characteristics often include a body-on-frame construction, though many modern terepjárók utilize a unibody (or monocoque) construction, similar to sedans, for improved on-road handling and fuel efficiency. The four-wheel drive system can range from full-time systems that constantly distribute power to all wheels to part-time systems that can be engaged by the driver. Ground clearance is crucial, allowing the vehicle to traverse obstacles without scraping its undercarriage. Terepjárók are often equipped with larger tires, specialized suspension, and sometimes locking differentials or other advanced traction control systems to enhance their off-road performance.