Vehicle Types: 57 Car Body Styles 2023 – The Ultimate List

Welcome to our ultimate list of the best types of cars available today. As a seasoned mechanic and writer with over a decade and a half of experience, I’ve had the opportunity to work on, drive, and review various automobiles. This unique perspective has equipped me with the knowledge to guide you in selecting the perfect vehicle to match your needs.

The world of cars is vast, with a dizzying array of models, makes, and classes. Whether you’re a first-time car buyer or a seasoned driver looking to switch things up, this guide is designed to simplify your decision-making process.

We’ll explore everything from sedan or compact cars to luxury vehicles, electric cars, trucks, SUVs, and more, giving you an overview of the current market.

Factors to Consider when Choosing a Car

Choosing the right car involves more than just picking a visually appealing model. There are several key factors to consider that can significantly influence your driving experience and overall satisfaction with your vehicle. Let’s discuss them in detail:

Budget

The first step in your car buying journey should be setting a realistic budget. Your budget will not only determine which cars you can afford but will also influence other costs associated with car ownership, such as insurance, maintenance, and fuel costs. Remember, it’s not just about the sticker price – ongoing costs can add up over time.

Purpose

The purpose of your vehicle is another important factor to consider. Do you need a car for daily commuting, family outings, off-roading adventures, or just the occasional weekend drive? Each purpose may require a different type of vehicle. For example, a compact car or hybrid could be perfect for commuting due to their fuel efficiency, while an SUV or minivan might be better suited for a large family.

Fuel Efficiency

Fuel efficiency is a significant consideration, especially with rising fuel prices. More efficient vehicles not only save you money but are also better for the environment. Consider looking into electric or hybrid vehicles if you’re particularly eco-conscious.

Safety

Safety is paramount when choosing a vehicle. Look for cars with strong safety ratings and advanced safety features such as anti-lock braking systems (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC), and multiple airbags. Some cars also offer advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking.

Comfort and Convenience

Consider the comfort and convenience features you desire in a car. This could include things like ample legroom, heated seats, a state-of-the-art infotainment system, or a backup camera. Remember, you’ll be spending a significant amount of time in your vehicle, so make sure it has the features to keep you comfortable.

Brand Reputation

It’s also worth considering the reputation of the car brand. Some brands are renowned for their reliability, build quality, and customer service. Do some research to find out which brands have the best track record in these areas.

Compact Cars

Compact cars, also known as small cars or subcompact cars, are perfect for those seeking an economical, easy-to-maneuver vehicle suitable for city driving. These cars to be popular due to their impressive fuel efficiency and affordability.

Small Cars

Small cars are typically the entry point for many car buyers. They’re light, easy to handle, and perfect for city living with limited parking spaces. Despite their size, these vehicles often offer surprisingly spacious interiors:

• Honda Fit: Known for its remarkable interior space given its size.
• Ford Fiesta: Appreciated for its balanced handling and intuitive infotainment system.
• Chevrolet Sonic: Offers advanced safety features and a comfortable ride.
• Toyota Yaris: Renowned for its reliability and excellent fuel efficiency.

Hatchbacks

Hatchbacks are a popular choice due to their practical design, offering both compact dimensions for easy city driving and flexible cargo space thanks to their rear hatch door:

• Volkswagen Golf: Renowned for its robust performance and upscale interior.
• Mazda3: Praised for its sporty handling and high-quality cabin.
• Hyundai i30: Known for its comprehensive suite of safety features and smooth ride.
• Honda Civic Hatchback: Combines fun driving dynamics with practical cargo space.

Mini MPVs (Multi-Purpose Vehicles)

Mini MPVs are compact cars that offer increased versatility and space. These cars tend to have a higher driving position, offering a better view of the road, along with more flexible seating arrangements:

• Citroën C3 Picasso: Known for its spacious and versatile interior.
• Ford B-Max: Recognized for its innovative design with no central pillar and sliding rear doors for easy access.
• Honda Jazz: Offers class-leading interior space and numerous clever features to enhance practicality.

This wide variety of compact cars on the market ensures that, regardless of your specific needs and preferences, there’s likely a small car out there that would be a perfect fit.

Sedans

Sedans have long been popular among drivers due to their well-balanced blend of comfort, style, and performance. In several sizes, from compact to luxury, sedans can cater to various budgets and needs. My 15 years of experience in the automotive industry have given me plenty of exposure to this classic car type, and I can safely say there is a sedan for everyone.

Compact Sedans

Compact sedans offer the comfort and style of a sedan in a smaller, more maneuverable size. These cars are perfect for city driving and are generally more fuel-efficient:

1. Honda Civic: Known for its reliability and excellent fuel economy.
2. Toyota Corolla: Renowned for its comfortable ride and an impressive list of standard safety features.
3. Hyundai Elantra: Offers a spacious, well-equipped cabin and a smooth ride.
4. Mazda3: Combines a luxury-like interior with sporty handling.

Mid-size Sedans

Mid-size sedans offer more interior space, a smoother ride, and often come with more standard features:

1. Toyota Camry: Known for its strong reliability rating and high-quality interior.
2. Honda Accord: Combines engaging performance with a roomy, upscale interior.
3. Hyundai Sonata: Offers a spacious cabin, user-friendly tech features, and a comfortable ride.
4. Mazda6: Praised for its agile handling and stylish, well-equipped cabin.

Full-size Sedans

Full-size sedans offer the most interior space in the sedan category, making them a good choice for families or those who frequently have backseat passengers:

• Chrysler 300: Offers a potent V8 engine option and an upscale interior.
• Toyota Avalon: Renowned for its potent V6 engine, roomy seats, and a generous list of standard features.
• Buick LaCrosse: Combines a cushioned ride with a rich, well-equipped interior.

Executive Sedans

Executive sedans offer a step up in luxury, typically boasting superior craftsmanship, high-end materials, and advanced technology:

• BMW 5 Series: Combines strong performance with a plush, tech-filled interior.
• Mercedes-Benz E-Class: Renowned for its rich interior and advanced safety features.
• Audi A6: Offers a lineup of powerful engines and an opulent interior.

Luxury Sedans

These are the pinnacle of the sedan world, offering unmatched comfort, top-tier craftsmanship, powerful performance, and the latest technology:

• Mercedes-Benz S-Class: Known for its lavish interior and potent powertrains.
• BMW 7 Series: Combines a plush ride with powerful engine options.
• Audi A8: Offers a luxurious, high-tech interior and a lineup of powerful engines.

In the world of sedans, there is a wide variety to choose from. From compact sedans perfect for city commuting to opulent luxury sedans that offer a first-class experience, there’s a sedan for every driver.

SUVs (Sports Utility Vehicles)

SUVs have been growing in popularity due to their versatility, spacious interiors, and robust performance capabilities. They are a perfect choice for larger families, adventure enthusiasts, and those looking for a higher driving position. I’ve seen the rise of the SUV and its evolution into a vehicle that can suit almost any lifestyle.

Compact SUVs

Compact SUVs combine the fuel efficiency and maneuverability of a compact car with the spacious interior and robust capabilities of an SUV:

• Honda CR-V: Known for its comfortable ride, roomy seats, and ample cargo space.
• Toyota RAV4: Renowned for its strong performance and a high predicted reliability rating.
• Mazda CX-5: Offers sporty performance and a upscale interior.
• Ford Escape: Combines robust engine options with a user-friendly infotainment system.

Mid-size SUVs

Mid-size SUVs offer more cargo space and often come with more powerful engine options, perfect for those who need more room and performance:

1. Toyota Highlander: Known for its comfortable and quiet ride, with plenty of space for passengers and cargo.
2. Honda Pilot: Offers roomy seating in all three rows and a large cargo area.
3. Ford Edge: Combines potent engine options with a comfortable ride.
4. Jeep Grand Cherokee: Renowned for its off-road capabilities and robust performance.

Full-size SUVs

Full-size SUVs offer the most space and powerful performance, often coming with V8 engines and capable of towing heavy loads:

1. Chevrolet Tahoe: Offers robust performance with a powerful V8 engine and can tow heavy loads.
2. Ford Expedition: Combines a potent turbocharged V6 engine with a spacious, well-designed interior.
3. Nissan Armada: Known for its strong engine and spacious seating.

Extended Length SUVs

Extended length SUVs are the kings of road presence and interior space, offering three rows of spacious seating and enormous cargo areas:

• Cadillac Escalade ESV: Combines a powerful engine with a plush, feature-filled interior.
• Lincoln Navigator L: Offers a potent turbocharged engine and a luxurious interior.
• Chevrolet Suburban: Known for its ample cargo room and a well-equipped, comfortable interior.

Luxury SUVs

Luxury SUVs combine the practicality and performance of an SUV with the comfort, advanced features, and superior craftsmanship of a luxury vehicle:

• Mercedes-Benz GLE: Offers a lineup of potent engines and a luxurious interior.
• BMW X5: Combines robust performance with a plush, high-tech interior.
• Audi Q7: Renowned for its high-quality cabin and user-friendly technology.

SUVs offer a wide range of sizes and capabilities, from compact SUVs perfect for city driving to luxurious and spacious extended length SUVs. There’s an SUV for every need and lifestyle.

Trucks

Trucks are versatile vehicles known for their power, durability, and cargo-hauling capabilities. They’re an excellent choice for those who need to transport heavy items, tow trailers, or navigate off-road terrains. I’ve worked with a wide array of trucks and can attest to their undeniable utility and rugged charm.

Midsize Trucks

Midsize trucks are a great choice for those who want truck capabilities in a more compact package that’s easier to maneuver and park:

• Toyota Tacoma: This truck is renowned for its off-road prowess and its strong reliability rating. It’s powered by either a four-cylinder or a V6 engine, and although it may not be the most luxurious truck, it’s built to withstand rough conditions.
• Chevrolet Colorado: The Colorado offers three engine options, including an efficient turbodiesel. It boasts a comfortable interior and an intuitive infotainment system. It’s also available with multiple packages that enhance its off-road capabilities.
• Ford Ranger: The Ranger comes with a potent turbocharged engine and offers an off-road package. It also has a solid towing capacity and a user-friendly infotainment system.

Full-size Trucks

Full-size trucks offer more power, towing capacity, and interior space. They’re ideal for heavy-duty work or if you require a roomy, family-friendly cabin:

• Ford F-150: The F-150 is a perennial best-seller thanks to its broad range of potent engine options, high towing and payload capacities, and a comfortable, tech-rich interior. It also offers multiple packages for enhanced off-road and towing capabilities.
• Ram 1500: The Ram 1500 sets itself apart with its exceptionally smooth ride, high-quality interior, and user-friendly technology. It’s available with multiple potent engines, including a diesel option.
• Chevrolet Silverado 1500: The Silverado offers a lineup of powerful engines, a comfortable ride, and a spacious, well-built interior. It also has a high towing capacity and offers multiple off-road-ready trims.

Heavy-Duty Trucks

Heavy-duty trucks offer the highest towing and payload capacities in the truck segment. They’re built to handle the toughest jobs and carry the heaviest loads:

• Ford F-250 Super Duty: The F-250 Super Duty offers potent engine options, including a diesel V8, a high towing capacity, and a spacious, well-equipped interior. It also provides several advanced tech and safety features.
• Ram 2500: The Ram 2500 sets itself apart with its smooth ride, high-quality interior, and impressive towing capacities. It’s available with a diesel engine option and an off-road package.
• Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD: The Silverado 2500HD offers robust engine options, a high towing capacity, and a spacious interior. It also has multiple technology and safety features, making it a comfortable and capable workhorse.

Trucks are diverse vehicles that are as comfortable hauling heavy cargo as they are taking the family on a long road trip. From midsize trucks that are perfect for light-duty work and off-roading, to heavy-duty trucks that can tow massive loads, there’s a truck for every need.

Crossovers

Crossovers have rapidly grown in popularity due to their blend of car-like comfort and handling with the added versatility of an SUV. Based on car platforms, they offer a smoother ride and better fuel efficiency than traditional SUVs, while still providing increased cargo space and a higher driving position. Here are the best types of crossovers for you.

Compact Crossovers

Compact crossovers are perfect for those seeking the benefits of an SUV without the bulk. These vehicles offer a great balance of fuel efficiency, cargo space, and maneuverability:

• Honda CR-V: Known for its comfortable ride and roomy interior, the CR-V also boasts an excellent fuel economy and a wealth of standard safety features. It’s a perfect crossover for those who prioritize practicality and comfort.
• Mazda CX-5: The CX-5 distinguishes itself with its stylish design, upscale interior, and sporty handling. Despite its compact size, it doesn’t compromise on premium feel or driving enjoyment.
• Subaru Forester: The Forester is celebrated for its standard all-wheel-drive system, spacious cabin, and outstanding visibility. Its solid fuel economy and many standard driver assistance features make it an excellent choice for families and adventurers alike.

Midsize Crossovers

Midsize crossovers are a step up in size and capacity, often offering a third-row seating option for larger families or those needing extra passenger space:

• Toyota Highlander: With its comfortable ride, generous list of standard safety features, and roomy cabin, the Highlander is a crowd-pleaser. It’s also available with a fuel-efficient hybrid powertrain.
• Honda Pilot: The Pilot impresses with its spacious three-row seating, ample cargo capacity, and smooth ride. It also comes packed with plenty of standard features, making it a family-friendly option.
• Chevrolet Traverse: The Traverse stands out with its vast cargo area and adult-friendly third-row seating. Paired with a comfortable ride and an intuitive infotainment system, it’s a perfect choice for those needing extra space.

Luxury Crossovers

Luxury crossovers offer a premium experience, combining the practicality of crossovers with the upscale comfort, advanced technology, and superior performance of luxury vehicles:

• Audi Q5: The Q5 impresses with its high-quality interior, smooth ride, and potent engine options. Its balance of luxury and performance is hard to beat.
• Mercedes-Benz GLC: Known for its opulent cabin, smooth ride, and lineup of powerful engines, the GLC sets the standard for luxury crossovers.
• BMW X3: The X3 offers sporty handling, strong engine performance, and a high-quality interior. It’s a crossover for those who want luxury without compromising on driving enjoyment.

Crossovers are a testament to automotive versatility, skillfully blending the best elements of sedans and SUVs. Whether you’re seeking a compact crossover for urban adventures, a midsize crossover for family duties, or a luxury crossover for superior comfort and performance, there’s a model out there to suit your needs.

Sports Cars

Sports cars are all about performance and thrill. They are typically characterized by their powerful engines, precise handling, and sleek design. As an automotive enthusiast I find sports cars offer some of the most exciting driving experiences out there.

Sports Coupes

Sports coupes provide an exhilarating blend of power, agility, and style. They are ideal for drivers who value performance and don’t require too much passenger or cargo space:

• Ford Mustang: A true American icon, the Mustang offers a range of potent engines, a comfortable cabin, and intuitive technology. Whether you choose the base model or the high-performance GT or Shelby variants, you’re in for an exciting drive.
• Chevrolet Camaro: The Camaro offers robust engine options, precise handling, and a wealth of performance upgrades. Its blend of power and agility makes it a favorite among sports car enthusiasts.
• BMW 2 Series: This German coupe combines a luxurious interior with sporty handling and potent engine options. It’s a perfect choice for those seeking a blend of luxury and performance.

Sports Sedans

Sports sedans blend the practicality of four doors and comfortable seating with the performance of a sports car. These vehicles are for those who want their family car to provide a thrilling driving experience:

• BMW M3: The M3 is a high-performance variant of the 3 Series and is renowned for its potent engines, sharp handling, and high-quality interior. It’s a sports car that doesn’t compromise on practicality.
• Audi RS3: The RS3 offers impressive performance credentials with its powerful engine, quick acceleration, and precise handling. Paired with Audi’s refined interior and advanced tech, it’s a compelling sports sedan.
• Mercedes-Benz AMG C63: The AMG C63 offers a potent V8 engine, precise handling, and a luxurious interior. It’s a perfect blend of luxury and performance.

Sports Convertibles

Sports convertibles offer an open-air driving experience that heightens the thrill of a sports car. They are perfect for those who enjoy the feel of the wind as they speed down the open road:

• Mazda MX-5 Miata: The Miata offers a lively engine, balanced handling, and a lightweight construction that makes it a joy to drive. Its soft-top roof can be easily operated for those moments when you want to enjoy the open air.
• Chevrolet Corvette: The Corvette offers robust engine performance, sharp handling, and a sophisticated interior. Its convertible variant allows you to enjoy the thrill of the V8 with the top down.
• Porsche 911: The 911 is a legendary sports car known for its powerful performance, precise handling, and high-quality interior. The convertible variants add an extra layer of exhilaration to the mix.

Sports cars offer the thrill of speed and the joy of driving. Whether you prefer the compact agility of a sports coupe, the practical performance of a sports sedan, or the open-air thrill of a sports convertible, there’s a sports car for every adrenaline seeker.

Electric and Hybrid Vehicles

Electric and hybrid vehicles are becoming increasingly popular thanks to their environmental friendliness, fuel efficiency, and innovative technologies. The exciting evolution and growth of these eco-friendly cars; love to see it.

Hybrid Vehicles

Hybrid vehicles combine a gasoline engine with an electric motor, providing better fuel efficiency than conventional gasoline vehicles without the range anxiety of electric vehicles:

• Toyota Prius: Known as the car that popularized hybrids, the Prius offers exceptional fuel economy, a comfortable ride, and a roomy interior. It’s an excellent choice for eco-conscious city drivers.
• Honda Accord Hybrid: The Accord Hybrid combines the virtues of the Accord sedan—roomy interior, comfortable ride, and top-notch safety features—with excellent fuel efficiency.
• Ford Fusion Hybrid: The Fusion Hybrid offers a comfortable ride, upscale interior, and user-friendly technology, combined with impressive fuel economy.

Plug-in Hybrid Vehicles

Plug-in hybrids can be recharged from an outlet to provide a certain amount of all-electric driving range, after which the vehicle operates like a conventional hybrid:

• Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV: Combining SUV versatility with plug-in efficiency, the Outlander PHEV offers decent electric-only range and a comfortable ride.
• Toyota Prius Prime: The Prius Prime offers an all-electric range suitable for most commutes, and then operates as a regular hybrid once the battery’s charge is depleted.
• Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid: As a minivan, the Pacifica Hybrid stands out in the plug-in market, offering spacious seating, versatile cargo space, and impressive all-electric range for a vehicle of its size.

Whether it’s a hybrid, plug-in hybrid, or fully electric vehicle, each provides unique benefits tailored to different lifestyles and needs.

Electric Vehicles (EVs)

Electric vehicles run entirely on electricity, producing zero tailpipe emissions and offering instantaneous acceleration. They require charging but provide the benefit of incredibly low running costs:

• Tesla Model 3: The Model 3 offers impressive electric range, swift acceleration, and a minimalist, high-tech interior. Its Autopilot semi-autonomous driving system adds a futuristic touch.
• Nissan Leaf: As one of the first mass-market EVs, the Leaf offers affordable entry into electric vehicle ownership. It provides a decent range, roomy interior, and a host of standard safety features.
• Chevrolet Bolt EV: The Bolt EV offers a long electric range, peppy acceleration, and roomy interior. It’s a practical and affordable electric vehicle for everyday use.

The rise of electric and hybrid vehicles represents a significant shift in the automotive world. They offer an excellent solution for those looking to reduce their environmental impact and fuel costs.

Luxury Vehicles

Luxury vehicles represent the pinnacle of comfort, performance, and technology in the automotive world. They are characterized by their high-end materials, advanced features, and meticulous craftsmanship.

Luxury Sedans

Luxury sedans offer a perfect blend of comfort, performance, and state-of-the-art technology. They are designed for those who desire a refined driving experience:

• Mercedes-Benz S-Class: The S-Class stands as a benchmark in the luxury sedan category, with its opulent interior, advanced tech features, and smooth, powerful performance.
• Lexus ES: The ES is a luxury sedan that is known for its plush, quiet ride and high-quality interior. With a lineup of efficient engines and a host of standard features, the ES provides an excellent entry point into the luxury sedan market. It fits under the Luxury Sedans subcategory.
• BMW 7 Series: The 7 Series impresses with its athletic performance, high-quality interior, and cutting-edge technology. Its excellent balance of luxury and driving dynamics makes it a standout in its class.
• Acura TLX: The TLX is a luxury sedan that offers a mix of performance, comfort, and advanced technology. It’s well-equipped with a host of standard features and provides a smooth, enjoyable ride. The TLX fits under the Luxury Sedans subcategory.
• Audi A8: The A8 offers a luxurious and spacious interior, potent engine options, and a host of advanced tech features. Its smooth ride and well-equipped cabin make it a top choice for luxury buyers.

Luxury SUVs

Luxury SUVs combine the practicality of SUVs with high-end comfort, advanced technology, and superior performance:

• Range Rover: Known for its off-road prowess and luxurious accommodations, the Range Rover is a top choice for those seeking luxury without compromising on utility.
• Mercedes-Benz GLE: The GLE offers a comfortable and high-tech interior, a smooth ride, and a range of powerful engine options. Its balance of luxury and performance is hard to beat.
• BMW X5: The X5 impresses with its potent performance, spacious and luxurious interior, and advanced tech features. Whether you’re seeking comfort or driving enjoyment, the X5 delivers.
• Lexus RX: The RX is a midsize luxury SUV that excels in providing a comfortable, quiet ride, and a well-crafted cabin with lots of advanced safety features. It’s also available in a hybrid variant for those seeking better fuel economy.

Luxury Sports Cars

Luxury sports cars offer top-tier performance, superior handling, and high-end comfort. They’re designed for those who crave speed and luxury:

• Porsche 911: The 911 offers legendary performance, precise handling, and a luxurious interior. Its blend of luxury and performance has made it a benchmark in the sports car category.
• Aston Martin Vantage: The Vantage impresses with its potent engine, sharp handling, and high-quality interior. It’s a luxury sports car that delivers thrilling performance.
• Mercedes-AMG GT: The AMG GT stands out with its powerful engine options, sharp handling, and luxurious cabin. It’s a sports car that doesn’t compromise on luxury or performance.

Luxury vehicles offer an unmatched driving experience in terms of comfort, performance, and technology. Whether you’re seeking a refined sedan, a practical SUV, or a high-performance sports car, the world of luxury vehicles has something to cater to every taste.

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These are the most well known types of cars and their designs.

As we’ve seen, many different types of cars cater to every need, taste, and lifestyle. The choice of a car is highly personal, and with the information in this guide, I hope you’re better equipped to find the perfect vehicle.

Please let us know if you have any feedback or adjustments in the comment section or contact us.