Different Types of Cars – What Defines Them?

Sedan – A car built on a car chassis with the boot separated from the cabin of the vehicle.  The boot-space in sedans is generally a lot smaller than stationwagons.

Stationwagon – Often called “wagon” in the past because of its ability to carry large amounts of luggage in its rear, a staionwagon’s boot is the same height as the rest of the vehicle, and there is no gap between it and the cabin.  Most modern staionwagon’s have the ability to fold down their back seats for ample loading space.  Stationwagons were often marketed as family vehicles due to their ability to “fit everything”.

Hatchback – A hatchback is similar in design to stationwagons, except the boot slopes downwards from the rest of the vehicle, and is smaller in comparison to the rest of the car.  There is no gap between the boot in hatchbacks, which defines them from sedans.  Hatchbacks are often small, with small boot, however there are some large hatchbacks too.

SUV/4WD – A SUV (sports utility vehicle) or “4WD” is essentially a stationwagon built on a light truck chassis.  Therefore it is higher up and more ideal for offroading.  Even though SUVs were originally designed for offroading, many these days are not, and still hold the 4WD design for comfort and safety.

Van – A van is a utility vehicle whose steering wheel is in front of the front wheels.  Vans also have a sliding door in the rear, rather than more regular doors.  Most vans that are designed to carry a large number of people are called “people carriers” and have 6-8 seats.