A Simple Guide to Car Body Types

Trying to tell different types of cars apart can feel a bit overwhelming. With so many shapes, sizes, and styles on the road, do you really know your hatchbacks from your saloons? Or your coupes from your estates?

Don't worry, we've got you. In this simple guide, we’ll walk you through the different types of cars out there. By the end, you’ll feel much more confident about choosing the right one for you.

City Cars

Built for life on urban roads, city cars are small, light, and generally affordable. They are fantastically agile, making them perfect for squeezing into those tight parking spaces you always spot at the last second, doing the school run, or just nipping around town.

What is a city car?

A city car is a compact vehicle that often looks like a smaller hatchback or supermini. The design focuses on maximising interior space with wide-opening doors to make getting in and out easier. These practical little cars usually have smaller engines and brilliant fuel efficiency, which makes them both reasonably priced and cheap to run. If you’re looking for a fun and economical ride for city living, a city car could be your perfect match. You can even find hybrid or small electric options for a more eco-friendly choice.

Best bits:

• Easy to park and manoeuvre in busy urban areas.
• Excellent fuel efficiency, which is ideal for stop-start traffic.
• Affordable to buy with low maintenance costs.

Things to consider:

• Limited space for luggage and passengers.
• Less powerful engines aren't ideal for long motorway drives.
• The interior is often basic and may lack advanced tech.

Popular city cars:

• Fiat 500
• Volkswagen Up
• Kia Picanto

Superminis

Superminis are compact, light, and agile, just like city cars. However, they can comfortably seat four people and have a boot big enough for a weekly food shop or a couple of small suitcases. They strike a great balance between size and practicality.

What are superminis?

Despite the name, superminis are a type of hatchback that sits somewhere between a tiny city car and a larger family hatchback. They offer better fuel efficiency than a full-size family car but are slightly less efficient than a city car. They also benefit from affordable maintenance and lower insurance costs, making them a very cost-effective choice. They’re also a brilliant first car for new drivers, offering practicality and easy handling.

Best bits:

• A versatile size that's great for daily use.
• Many come with modern tech like touchscreens and cruise control.
• Fuel-efficient for both city driving and longer journeys.

Things to consider:

• The boot can be limited, and it might feel cramped with five adults.
• Can be a bit noisy on the motorway.
• Their lighter build can affect handling in extreme weather.

Popular superminis:

• Ford Fiesta
• Vauxhall Corsa
• Volkswagen Polo

Hatchbacks

The regular hatchback, often called a family hatchback, is the next step up in size. These medium-sized, practical cars make perfect family vehicles thanks to their reasonable space, comfort, and the availability of hybrid and electric options.

What is a hatchback?

A hatchback is a car where the boot lid is hinged at the roof, so the entire back of the car opens up, including the rear window. This is why you'll hear them called three-door or five-door cars (the boot counts as a door). Some brands, like Audi, call their hatchbacks ‘Sportback’, but it’s the same thing. They are great all-rounders, but the open-plan design can sometimes mean more road noise inside compared to a saloon.

Best bits:

• Flexible boot space with a wide opening for easy loading.
• A good balance of passenger space and compact size.
• Generally fuel-efficient and cheap to run.

Things to consider:

• Lower ground clearance isn't ideal for poorly maintained roads.
• Can be noisier inside than other car types.
• Might not feel as trendy as an SUV.

Popular hatchbacks:

• Ford Focus
• Volkswagen Golf
• Vauxhall Astra

People Carriers / MPVs

Multi-Purpose Vehicles (MPVs), or people carriers, are all about space and practicality. With seats that slide, fold, and can sometimes be removed completely, you can create a van-like interior. They are the ultimate family car for those who need maximum flexibility.

What is an MPV?

MPVs are large cars that usually have five to seven seats, with some models offering up to nine. Many have handy sliding side doors and multiple ISOFIX points for child seats. While they aren't always seen as the most stylish cars, they make up for it with incredible practicality and are often more affordable than a large SUV. Due to their size, they can be thirsty on fuel, but hybrid and electric options are available.

Best bits:

• Huge interior space, with some models fitting up to nine people.
• Practical features like sliding doors and lots of safety kit.
• Often more affordable to buy and run than large SUVs.

Things to consider:

• Function over fashion is the main design focus.
• Higher fuel consumption due to their weight and size.
• Their size can make them tricky to park and manoeuvre.

Popular MPVs:

• Ford Galaxy
• Volkswagen Touran
• Citroën C4 Grand Picasso

Saloons

Saloons are often loved by driving enthusiasts looking for a fun, spacious car for long-distance trips. With their sleek, eye-catching designs, saloons are often real head-turners and come in a wide range of shapes and sizes.

What is a saloon?

A saloon is a car with a separate boot compartment that is closed off from the passenger cabin. This means the boot opening is smaller than a hatchback's. Because the boot isn't connected to the interior, saloons are classed as four-door cars. They generally provide a quieter and more comfortable ride than a hatchback but can be slightly less fuel-efficient due to their size. They are often packed with the latest tech, making them a favourite for business executives.

Best bits:

• Sleek, elegant, and aerodynamic design.
• Spacious and often luxurious interiors with high-quality materials.
• Packed with advanced driver-assist technology.

Things to consider:

• Smaller boot openings limit what you can carry.
• Can be more expensive to buy and maintain than hatchbacks.
• Less practical in tight city environments.

Popular saloons:

• Mercedes C-Class
• BMW 3 Series
• Audi A4

Coupes

Coupes are essentially two-door versions of saloons, often with a stylish, sloping roofline at the back. They tend to prioritise style over practicality, so you won’t find much room for luggage. That said, you can find some four-door coupes that are big enough for families.

What is a coupe?

Coupes are known for their sporty looks and dynamic driving experience. While they can be expensive, there are more affordable options like the Toyota GT86. Some larger, more luxurious models are known as Grand Tourers (GTs), like the Bentley Continental GT. These offer more comfort for back-seat passengers but still aren't as roomy as a full saloon.

Best bits:

• Sporty and stylish appearance with an aerodynamic shape.
• Powerful engines and a fun driving experience.
• Often feature luxurious interiors and advanced technology.

Things to consider:

• Limited boot space and rear passenger room.
• Higher maintenance costs are common with premium brands.
• The sporty design can sometimes reduce visibility.

Popular coupes:

• Audi A5
• BMW 2 Series
• Toyota GT86

Convertibles

Also known as cabriolets, convertibles are basically coupes where the fixed roof has been replaced with a folding one, made of either fabric or metal. They are perfect for enjoying that open-air feeling on a sunny day.

What is a convertible?

A convertible is typically a two-door car with a retractable roof. While some can hold four people, the back seats are often quite snug, making them a better choice for couples than for families. While they are often associated with high-end brands, more affordable models like the MINI Convertible are also popular. Just be aware that the roof mechanism can be expensive to repair if something goes wrong.

Best bits:

• The thrill of open-air driving.
• A stylish and sporty design that turns heads.
• They are incredibly fun to drive.

Things to consider:

• The roof mechanism takes up a lot of boot space.
• They are often less refined and noisier than cars with a fixed roof.
• Mechanical roofs can be costly to fix if they break.

Popular convertibles:

• Mazda MX-5
• Audi TT Roadster
• MINI Convertible

Estates

With their huge boots, estates are perfect for families who need to pack in lots of gear, whether for kids or pets. They are also ideal for anyone who frequents flat-pack furniture stores or just can’t pack light for a holiday.

What is an estate?

An estate is a hatchback or saloon with an extended roofline and a much larger boot. In the past, estates were a bit boxy, but modern designs are much more stylish. Some manufacturers use different names like ‘Touring’, ‘Avant’, or ‘Shooting Brake’. Running costs are similar to a large family hatchback. If you want to save on fuel, hybrid and electric estates are now available.

Best bits:

• Massive boot space for bulky items and family trips.
• A practical and functional interior design.
• Rear seats often fold down for even more load space.

Things to consider:

• Their length can make them harder to park.
• Running costs can be higher than smaller cars.
• They may not feel as nimble as a hatchback.

Popular estate cars:

• Volvo V60
• Audi A6 Avant
• BMW 3 Series Touring

SUVs

Sports Utility Vehicles, or SUVs, have become incredibly popular. They generally fall into the large car category, offering a powerful presence, great carrying capacity, and a higher driving position.

What is an SUV?

SUVs sit on a larger platform and many come with four-wheel drive. They rival MPVs for space and practicality but usually win when it comes to style, thanks to their trademark rugged looks. They are well-suited for growing families, with plenty of boot space for passengers or luggage. SUVs often come packed with advanced tech and safety features, offering a commanding view of the road.

Best bits:

• A spacious interior and a large boot.
• Higher driving position for increased visibility.
• Powerful engines and off-road capabilities on many models.

Things to consider:

• Higher fuel consumption and running costs.
• Their bulkier size can make them less agile in tight spaces.
• Generally more expensive to buy and maintain.

Popular SUVs:

• Nissan Qashqai
• Kia Sportage
• Land Rover Discovery

Crossovers

Crossovers might look like rugged off-roaders, but looks can be deceiving. They combine the chunky styling of an SUV with the comfort, handling, and lower running costs of a traditional hatchback.

What is a crossover?

A crossover is a type of car that blends different styles. They are generally smaller and lighter than a full SUV, making them cheaper to run while still offering good space. The higher driving position provides better road visibility, and the tall body makes it easier for parents to strap kids into the back. They are a fantastic compromise if you want the SUV look without the running costs.

Best bits:

• Enhanced visibility from a higher driving position.
• The chunky feel of an SUV with a more comfortable ride.
• Better fuel efficiency compared to traditional SUVs.

Things to consider:

• Limited off-road capability, as most are two-wheel drive.
• Not as good for towing as larger SUVs.
• Can be more expensive than a regular hatchback.

Popular crossovers:

• Nissan Juke
• Vauxhall Mokka
• Peugeot 2008

Pick-ups

Pick-ups are instantly recognisable by their open cargo area at the back. Like an SUV, they have a higher ride, a tough platform, strong towing capabilities, and plenty of ground clearance.

What is a pick-up?

A pick-up, sometimes called a pick-up truck, is a large vehicle designed for carrying heavy loads. They typically come with four-wheel drive as standard, allowing them to tackle challenging terrain. You can find them in single-cab (two seats) or double-cab (up to five seats) versions, depending on your needs. They are the ultimate vehicle for transporting bulky items.

Best bits:

• Excellent for towing and carrying heavy loads.
• Great visibility from the high seating position.
• A customisable cargo bed for all sorts of items.

Things to consider:

• They are less fuel-efficient than most other cars.
• Their large size makes them difficult to park.
• The ride can feel a bit rough and bumpy.

Popular pick-ups:

• Ford Ranger
• Volkswagen Amarok
• Nissan Navara

4x4s and Off-Roaders

If you love exploring wild terrain in any weather, a proper 4x4 is for you. These vehicles are built to handle just about anything you can throw at them, from muddy tracks to snowy hills.

What is a 4x4?

A 4x4 sends power to all four wheels, giving you better traction for off-road driving and in slippery conditions. While many 4x4s are built like SUVs with high ground clearance, you can now find four-wheel drive systems in saloons, estates, and even some hatchbacks. For true off-roading, you’ll want to look for good ground clearance and tough tyres.

Best bits:

• Designed for rugged terrain and tough weather.
• High ground clearance to get over obstacles.
• Built with durable materials for maximum resilience.

Things to consider:

• They consume more fuel due to their weight.
• The ride can be bumpy and less comfortable on normal roads.
• Maintenance costs for parts like tyres can be high.

Popular 4x4s:

• Land Rover Defender
• Jeep Wrangler
• Suzuki Jimny

Sports Cars

Sports cars are a dream come true for driving enthusiasts. They may not be the most practical cars, but they are all about the thrill of getting behind the wheel and having fun.

What is a sports car?

Sports cars usually take the form of a coupe or convertible. They are low to the ground, typically have just two seats, a small boot, and aren't very fuel-efficient. So what’s the attraction? They are incredibly fun to drive, with rapid acceleration and outstanding handling at high speeds. Owning one might feel like a dream, but there are more affordable options out there too.

Best bits:

• Built for speed, agility, and pure performance.
• A sleek and stylish design that always looks good.
• Equipped with advanced driving aids to enhance the experience.

Things to consider:

• Expensive to run due to poor fuel efficiency and high insurance.
• The stiff suspension can make for an uncomfortable ride on uneven roads.
• Very limited practicality with minimal boot and passenger space.

Popular sports cars:

• Toyota Supra
• Porsche Cayman
• Lotus Evora