Types of cars and body styles
Quick insights
- A body style describes the size, shape and characteristics of a vehicle, and common types include sedans, sport utility vehicles (SUVs), coupes and hatchbacks.
- Each body style serves a different purpose, from passenger capacity to cargo space and off-road capability.
- Understanding the differences between body styles may help you narrow your search when shopping for a vehicle.
If you have ever wondered whether a hatchback, SUV or sedan is the best fit for you, you are not alone. Each body style comes with its own strengths and trade-offs. Learning how these differences affect space, comfort and utility may help you make a decision.
What does body style mean on a car?
The term “body style” refers to the physical configuration of a vehicle, including the number of doors, the shape of the roof and the layout of the passenger and cargo areas. Sedans and pickup trucks are two body styles that are common in the U.S.
Within each body style are variations that get more specific, such as compact versus full-size or luxury versus non-luxury. These subcategories help distinguish vehicles that share a body style but differ in size, features or price. Understanding the body style basics may help you identify which type of vehicle aligns with your driving habits and transportation needs.
Types of car body styles
There are several body styles available, and each one offers different characteristics in terms of space, seating and utility.
- Sedan: Sedans have four doors and a three-box design with a distinct hood, passenger compartment and trunk. They range from compact and fuel-efficient to full-size and luxury options.
- SUV: Sport-utility vehicles offer cabin and cargo space and are available in forms ranging from wagon-like crossovers to off-road models.
- Coupe: Coupes feature a three-box form like sedans but come with two doors instead of four. They tend to prioritize style over practicality, with sloped roofs and limited rear passenger space.
- Hatchback: Hatchbacks have a rear hatch that raises to expose a storage compartment behind the seats. They typically have two or four passenger doors plus the hatch.
- Wagon: Wagons are similar to hatchbacks but with a longer roofline and more cargo space. They combine the driving dynamics of a sedan with the utility of an SUV.
- Pickup truck: Pickup trucks feature an open cargo bed in the rear for hauling. They combine passenger space with a separate cargo area designed for work or recreation.
- Van or minivan: Vans and minivans focus on interior space and seating versatility for passengers or cargo. They are oriented toward families or utility use.
- Convertible: Convertibles are defined by a retractable roof that allows for open-top driving. They typically come in two-door configurations.
Choosing the right body style
Selecting a body style depends on how you plan to use the vehicle and what matters to you in terms of space and functionality.
- Passenger capacity: If you regularly transport multiple passengers, a sedan, SUV or minivan may offer the seating you need. Coupes and convertibles tend to have limited rear passenger space.
- Cargo space: SUVs, hatchbacks and wagons provide cargo room for hauling gear. Sedans and coupes offer trunk space but may not accommodate larger items.
- Fuel efficiency: Compact sedans and hatchbacks tend to be fuel-efficient due to their size and weight. Larger vehicles such as SUVs and trucks may consume more fuel.
- Driving conditions: An SUV with all-wheel drive might be a consideration if you drive on rough terrain or in winter weather. Sedans and hatchbacks, on the other hand, may be suitable for both city and highway driving.
- Style preferences: Coupes and convertibles prioritize design and performance. If appearance is a factor in your decision, these body styles may appeal to you.
The bottom line
Understanding the different types of car body styles may help you narrow your options when shopping for a vehicle. Each body style offers different characteristics in terms of space, seating and utility, and choosing the right one depends on how you plan to use it. By comparing the options and considering your needs, you can find a body style that fits your lifestyle.
