What types of car bodies are there: from sedan to hatchback

With the development of the automotive industry, a wide variety of bodies have emerged: from classic sedans and hatchbacks to practical station wagons, stylish coupes, and spacious minivans. Each of them has its own features, advantages, and disadvantages, and the choice of body type often depends on the owner's lifestyle, needs, and preferences.

Now a bit of history and interesting facts.

The first car that is officially considered the first in the world was created in 1885 by the German engineer Karl Benz (Karl Benz).

Bertha Benz, the wife of Karl Benz, made the first automotive journey in history in this car in 1888 — about 100 km. She independently repaired the car, bought fuel at pharmacies, and proved that the car could be useful in everyday life.

During that trip from Mannheim to Pforzheim, she stopped in the city of Wiesloch (Wiesloch), where she entered a pharmacy and bought ligroin to refuel the car. That was the first automotive fuel. So what is that ligroin?

• Ligroin is a light fraction of petroleum, similar in composition to gasoline. It has a low boiling point (similar to gasoline) and evaporates easily. At that time, it was used as a solvent, so it was sold in pharmacies, particularly for removing stains from clothing.

Types of bodies:

• 4-door body with a separate trunk.
• Usually has three compartments: engine compartment, passenger cabin, and trunk.
• Popular for family use.

• 3 or 5 doors (including the rear hatch door).
• The trunk is combined with the cabin.
• Compact and convenient in the city.

• Similar to a hatchback but with an extended body and larger trunk.
• Ideal for transporting a large amount of stuff.

• 2-door car with a sporty design.
• Usually has 2 or 4 seats.
• Less space in the back row.

• A car with an open top (soft or hard roof).
• Designed for the pleasure of driving, not for practical use.

• High ground clearance, increased dimensions.
• Often has all-wheel drive.
• Popular as a family car with increased off-road capability.

• Spacious cabin, often 7 seats or more.
• Convenient for a large family.
• Sliding side doors are a common feature.

• Body with an open cargo platform.
• Often used for commercial purposes or active recreation.

• Similar to a sedan, but the rear opens together with the glass (like a hatchback).
• Stylish appearance + convenient access to the trunk.

• Sporty body shape with a smooth transition from the roof to the trunk.
• Similar to a coupe but may have more doors.

What is a sedan?

A sedan is a type of passenger car body with three separate compartments:

1. Front compartment — engine compartment.
2. Middle compartment — passenger cabin.
3. Rear compartment — trunk (with a lid, not a vertical door like a hatchback).

• 4 doors
• 5 seats (sometimes 4)

• 1910–1920s
  The name "sedan" comes from the Italian word "sedia" — “chair,” hinting at comfortable seating inside. The term first appeared in the USA in the 1910s to describe a passenger car with a hard roof and a fully enclosed cabin.
• 1920–30s:
  Sedans became popular among wealthy buyers due to comfort and protection from the elements. They were also valued for privacy compared to open cars.
• Post-war era (1940–60s)
  Sedans dominated the market. Manufacturers like Ford, Chevrolet, Mercedes-Benz, Peugeot, and others offered dozens of models specifically in sedan body style.
• 1990–2000s
  Peak popularity: practical, spacious, elegant. For example: Toyota Camry, BMW 5 Series, Mercedes E-Class, Volvo S70.
• Present (2020–2025)
  Despite the growing popularity of crossovers and SUVs, sedans remain in demand due to their aerodynamics, fuel efficiency, and premium appearance.

Examples of popular sedans

• Toyota Corolla
• Honda Civic
• Hyundai Elantra
• Skoda Octavia

• Toyota Camry
• Mazda 6
• Volkswagen Passat

• Mercedes-Benz E-Class
• BMW 5 Series
• Audi A6
• Lexus ES

1. Aerodynamics:
   Sedans have a better drag coefficient than SUVs. This reduces fuel consumption.
2. Safety:
   Due to clearly divided zones (especially the engine compartment), sedans demonstrate high results in crash tests.
3. Police cars:
   In the USA, classic police cars remained sedans for a long time — Ford Crown Victoria, Chevrolet Impala.
4. Symbol of status:
   In many countries, a sedan is a sign of respectability. For example, in China, sedans prevail over hatchbacks due to perceptions of status.
5. Electric sedans:
   Modern electric vehicles, such as Tesla Model S, are also produced in sedan body style, maintaining the popularity of the form factor in the new era.

What is a hatchback?

A hatchback is a type of passenger car body in which the luggage compartment is combined with the passenger cabin and has a rear door that opens upwards along with the glass. Usually, it is:

• A 3- or 5-door car (including the rear door),
• with compact dimensions,
• foldable rear seatbacks to increase trunk volume.

• The first attempts to make a car with rear doors that open upwards appeared back in the 1930s.
• However, the classic hatchback is considered the Renault 16 (1965) — the first mass-produced car with a body that modern manufacturers define as a hatchback.
• In the 1970s and 80s, hatchbacks became wildly popular in Europe due to their compactness and convenience. Models like Volkswagen Golf, Ford Fiesta, Peugeot 205 became legendary.

1. Compactness — convenient for urban conditions and parking.
2. Practicality — the rear door provides easy access to the trunk.
3. Transformability — folded rear seats create a large space.
4. Economy — usually lighter and more economical than larger bodies.
5. Affordable price — mid-range, accessible to a wide audience.

• Less luggage space than in a station wagon or SUV.
• Less prestigious appearance than a sedan (according to some drivers' perceptions).
• When opening the trunk, cold or noise can penetrate into the cabin.

Famous examples of hatchbacks

• Volkswagen Golf
• Ford Fiesta
• Renault Clio
• Hyundai i20 / i30
• Toyota Yaris
• Kia Rio

• Mazda 3 Hatchback
• Honda Civic Hatchback
• Peugeot 308
• Skoda Scala

• Audi A3 Sportback
• BMW 1 Series
• Mercedes-Benz A-Class
• Lexus CT 200h

• The name "hatchback" comes from the English word "hatch" — “hatch,” and "back" — “rear part.”
• In some countries, 5-door hatchbacks are confused with station wagons, although the latter have an extended rear.
• Volkswagen Golf is the most popular hatchback in the world. It has been produced since 1974 and is considered an icon of the class.
• Hatchbacks are often used as first cars due to their ease of maintenance and affordability.
• In 2020–2025, hatchbacks slightly lost popularity due to the crossover boom, but remain the top choice in Europe.
• Electric hatchbacks have emerged — for example: Volkswagen ID.3, Renault Zoe, Peugeot e-208.

What is a station wagon?

A station wagon (in English — Station Wagon or Estate) is a type of passenger car body that combines the comfort of a sedan with additional space for transporting items. A station wagon has:

• 4 doors + a large vertical rear trunk door,
• an extended rear overhang (longer rear part),
• a cabin that smoothly transitions into the trunk, without a clear partition,
• foldable rear seats that allow for significantly increased cargo volume.

• The first station wagons appeared in the 1910s and 20s in the USA. Initially, they were made to order as "family" or commercial variants.
• The name station wagon comes from the English "wagon for the railway station," meaning a car for transporting passengers and luggage from train stations.
• In the 1950s and 70s, station wagons became very popular among families in the USA and Europe, as ideal cars for travel, nature trips, shopping, etc.
• In the 1990s, they solidified as an alternative to minivans, thanks to more dynamic design and better handling.

1. Large trunk volume — often larger than that of crossovers.
2. Convenience for trips and transportation — great for families, travel, hobbies (bicycles, gear).
3. Comfortable cabin — retains the convenience and ergonomics of a sedan.
4. Economy — has a lower center of gravity and better aerodynamics than an SUV.
5. Classic appearance — often looks restrained and solid.

• Lower ground clearance — not designed for off-road use.
• Less popular in the 21st century — has given way to SUVs and crossovers.
• Not considered "trendy" among young people, especially in style-oriented markets.

Examples of station wagons

• Volvo V70 / V90
• Audi A4 Avant / A6 Avant
• Skoda Superb Combi
• Volkswagen Passat Variant
• Peugeot 508 SW

• BMW 3 Touring / 5 Touring
• Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate AMG
• Audi RS4 Avant

• Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo
• Jaguar XF Sportbrake

• In Scandinavian countries, station wagons are especially popular due to the weather, roads, and culture of active recreation.
• Volvo has become a legend in the production of station wagons — its models are considered the benchmark for safety and practicality.
• Many station wagons have additional roof rails for cargo or boxes.
• Some station wagons have versions with all-wheel drive and increased ground clearance, such as Audi A6 Allroad, Subaru Outback — they combine features of a station wagon and an SUV.
• Station wagons are gradually giving way to crossovers, but they remain popular in Europe, especially among drivers who value handling, comfort, and fuel economy.
• In 2020–2025, manufacturers are creating more stylish, dynamic station wagons to attract a younger audience.
• Electric or hybrid station wagons are also appearing, such as Peugeot 308 SW Hybrid.

What is a coupe?

A coupe (in English — Coupe) is a type of passenger car body that emphasizes sporty, stylish design and driving dynamics. The most characteristic features:

• Usually has 2 doors, less often — 3 (if counting the hatch-style trunk).
• Low roof and lowered seating — for better aerodynamics.
• Often 2+2 seating: full-size front seats and limited rear row.
• Less space in the cabin and trunk than in sedans or hatchbacks.

• The origin of the name is from the French coupé, which means "cut." This reflects the shortened body shape compared to a classic sedan.
• In the first cars, a coupe meant a closed body with a hard roof, often for two or three people.
• In the 1950s and 70s, coupes became synonymous with sporty or executive cars, such as Chevrolet Camaro, Ford Mustang, Mercedes-Benz SLC.
• Coupes have always been a symbol of prestige and drive, the ideal choice for car enthusiasts.

1. Stylish, sporty appearance — attracts attention and creates emotions.
2. Better handling — usually have stiffer suspension and a lower center of gravity.
3. Aerodynamics — a sleek profile improves movement and reduces fuel consumption.
4. Less weight — due to the absence of extra doors and spaces.

• Less space in the back row of seats — often the rear seats are merely nominal.
• Inconvenient access to the rear seats — through two doors.
• Limited trunk space — for small items or carry-on luggage.
• More expensive insurance — as for a "sports" car.
• Not practical for families or long trips.

Famous examples of coupes

• Ford Mustang
• Chevrolet Camaro
• Dodge Challenger

• BMW 4 Series Coupe
• Audi A5 Coupe
• Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupe

• Porsche 911
• Toyota GR86 / Subaru BRZ
• Nissan Z

• Bentley Continental GT
• Lexus LC
• Aston Martin DB11

• Porsche 911, although it has a rear row of seats, is still considered a coupe — due to its shape and sporty character.
• In the 2000s, four-door coupes appeared, such as Mercedes CLS — this is a combination of coupe design with sedan convenience.
• "Supercoupe" — these are super-powerful versions capable of accelerating to 100 km/h in less than 4 seconds (for example, Audi RS5 or BMW M4).
• In Japan and the USA, coupes are often associated with "the dream car" of youth.
• In 2020–2025, coupes lost market share due to the popularity of crossovers.
• However, they remain a favorite choice for enthusiasts, design lovers, and sporty driving.
• Electric coupes are emerging, such as Tesla Roadster (2025), Audi e-tron GT.

What is a convertible?

A convertible (in English — Convertible or Cabriolet) is a type of car body with an open roof that can be folded or removed, transforming the car from a coupe or roadster into a fully open vehicle.

• Removable, foldable, or hard roof (soft top or hard structure).
• 2 or 4 doors depending on the model.
• Often has 2 seats (roadster) or a 2+2 configuration.
• Designed more for emotional satisfaction than practicality.

• The first cars did not have roofs at all — therefore, early models from the late 19th century were technically convertibles.
• In the 1920s and 30s, folding fabric roofs appeared, and convertibles became popular among wealthy owners.
• In the 1950s and 60s, convertibles became a symbol of style and luxury, such as the Jaguar E-Type, Chevrolet Corvette, Mercedes SL.
• In the 1990s, engineers developed hard folding roofs (hardtop), making convertibles more convenient for everyday use.

1. Unmatched feeling of freedom — ideal for good weather, trips along the sea or out of town.
2. Stylish and eye-catching appearance — convertibles attract attention.
3. Versatility — one car can be both a coupe and an open roadster.
4. Premium positioning — often produced only in expensive configurations.

• Less rigidity of the body — especially in models with a soft roof (can affect handling).
• Less safety in case of rollover, although modern models have special safety arches.
• Less trunk space — the folding roof takes up a lot of space.
• High maintenance costs — the roof has complex mechanisms that wear out.
• Dependence on weather — in winter or rain, a convertible loses its appeal.

Famous examples of convertibles

• Mazda MX-5 Miata
• BMW Z4
• Mercedes-Benz SL-Class

• Porsche 911 Cabriolet
• Chevrolet Corvette Convertible
• Jaguar F-Type Convertible

• Bentley Continental GTC
• Rolls-Royce Dawn
• Audi A5 Cabriolet

• Volkswagen Beetle Cabriolet
• Citroën DS Décapotable
• Ford Mustang Convertible

• A roadster is a type of convertible, usually two-seater, focused on sportiness. Example: Mazda MX-5, Honda S2000.
• The best-selling convertible in history is considered to be the Mazda MX-5 — over 1 million units.
• In many convertibles, the roof opens automatically at the push of a button in 10–20 seconds.
• In some countries, there are “convertible days,” when owners of open cars hold parades.
• Today, convertibles have become niche models — due to high prices, climate change, and the popularity of crossovers.
• However, in Europe, California, and Australia, they are still bought for pleasure and recreation.
• Electric convertibles are also emerging, such as Fiat 500e Cabrio, Mini Cooper Electric Convertible.

What is an SUV?

An SUV (in English SUV — Sport Utility Vehicle) is a type of car body designed for movement on both public roads and off-road. The main features:

• Increased ground clearance (high seating).
• Full or all-wheel drive (4x4, AWD).
• Massive, tall body.
• Large interior accommodating 5–7 passengers.
• Often has a frame construction (traditional SUVs) or a unibody (in crossovers).

• The first "SUV-like" cars appeared in the 1930s and 40s: Willys Jeep (1941) — a military vehicle that became the basis for future civilian SUVs.
• In the 1950s, Land Rover Series, Toyota Land Cruiser, Chevrolet Suburban appeared.
• From the 1980s, SUVs gradually transformed from strictly utilitarian vehicles into comfortable multifunctional machines.
• In the 1990s and 2000s, the first crossovers appeared — passenger cars with the appearance of an SUV but with a suspension from a passenger car (for example, Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V).

1. Off-road capability — ideal for rural roads, mountainous regions, bad weather.
2. Capacity — convenient for large families or groups.
3. Versatility — can be both a family car and a vehicle for active recreation.
4. Increased safety — due to the massive body and better visibility from the cabin.
5. Modern models have luxurious interiors, driver assistance systems, electronics.

• Higher fuel consumption — large dimensions and all-wheel drive consume more.
• Low dynamics — greater mass, lower handling compared to passenger cars.
• Higher price — both for purchase and maintenance.
• Poor maneuverability in the city — not always convenient for parking.
• In some countries, additional taxation due to large engines or weight.

Examples of SUVs

• Toyota Land Cruiser
• Land Rover Defender
• Jeep Wrangler
• Suzuki Jimny
• Mitsubishi Pajero

• Chevrolet Tahoe / Suburban
• Ford Expedition
• Nissan Patrol
• Toyota Sequoia

• Mercedes-Benz G-Class
• BMW X7
• Lexus LX
• Range Rover

• Tesla Model X
• Rivian R1S
• Mercedes EQS SUV

• Land Rover Defender was a symbol of British colonies and one of the most recognizable SUVs of the 20th century.
• Toyota Land Cruiser has a reputation as "indomitable" — used in armies, expeditions, UN.
• SUVs in the USA — the most popular class of cars: over 50% of new car sales.
• There are luxury SUVs, such as Bentley Bentayga, Rolls-Royce Cullinan, which combine S-class comfort with jeep clearance.

What is a minivan?

A minivan (in English — Minivan or MPV — Multi-Purpose Vehicle) is a type of car body specifically designed to transport a large number of passengers with maximum comfort. The main characteristics:

• A body with a high roof and vertical walls.
• Usually has 3 rows of seats for 6–8 passengers.
• Sliding side doors — convenient for boarding/alighting.
• Large luggage compartment or the ability to transform the interior.
• Often has many niches, glove compartments, holders — all for the family.

• The first minivans appeared in the 1950s: for example, Volkswagen Type 2 (Microbus).
• The real breakthrough occurred in 1984 with the Chrysler Voyager/Dodge Caravan — the first true modern minivan.
• In the 1990s, minivans became the top choice for families in the USA and Europe, displacing station wagons.
• In the 2000s, more compact MPVs began to appear, as well as premium minivans with a high level of equipment.

1. Highest capacity among passenger cars — up to 8 passengers + luggage.
2. Maximum convenience for boarding — high roof, wide doors, sliding mechanisms.
3. Transformable interior — seats can be folded, removed, rotated.
4. Ideal for families and travel — plenty of space, safety systems, entertainment for children.
5. Comfort in long trips — minivans were created as microbuses for people.

• Large dimensions — not always convenient in the city.
• Less attractive design — utility is more important than style.
• Not suitable for off-road — low ground clearance, front-wheel drive.
• Gradually being displaced by crossovers — which look more modern but are less practical.

Famous examples of minivans

• Toyota Sienna
• Honda Odyssey
• Chrysler Pacifica
• Renault Espace
• Volkswagen Sharan

• Ford C-Max
• Opel Zafira
• Citroën Grand C4 Picasso
• Mazda 5

• Mercedes-Benz V-Class
• Lexus LM
• Hyundai Staria Lounge
• Toyota Alphard

• Toyota Alphard has become a favorite for VIP transportation in Asia — has almost a "business class" interior.
• In some minivans, the rear seats have their own multimedia, tables, climate control.
• Honda Odyssey in some configurations has a built-in vacuum cleaner for the interior!
• Minivans are the favorite class of taxi in Europe and Japan due to their capacity and ease of entry/exit.
• Although in Europe and the USA the popularity of minivans has somewhat decreased due to crossovers, in Asia, the demand for them continues to grow.
• Electric minivans are emerging, such as Volkswagen ID. Buzz, Maxus MIFA 9.
• More and more minivans are focused on the luxury segment, emphasizing business trips and VIP transportation.

What is a pickup?

A pickup (in English — Pickup truck) is a light vehicle with an open cargo platform (body) behind, separated from the passenger cabin. The main features:

• A cabin for 2–5 people (single, double, or crew cab).
• An open cargo platform with sides.
• Often has all-wheel drive (4x4) and high ground clearance.
• Designed for transporting cargo + daily use.

• The first pickups appeared in the USA in the early 20th century as modifications of passenger cars for farmers.
• In 1925, the Ford Model T Runabout with Pickup Body became the first factory pickup.
• In the second half of the 20th century, pickups became popular not only in rural areas but also among urban users — due to their reliability and versatility.
• In the 1990s, pickups even became family vehicles — with comfortable double cabins and all amenities.

1. Cargo capacity — can transport building materials, equipment, tools, sports gear.
2. Off-road capability — all-wheel drive, high ground clearance, powerful engines.
3. Durability and reliability — built for tough conditions.
4. Versatility — suitable for both business and family.
5. Customization options — from roofs to cargo beds (winches, canopies, racks, camping gear).

• Large dimensions — difficult to park in the city.
• Not always comfortable for rear passengers (especially in models with a small cabin).
• Open cargo platform — cargo needs to be protected from rain/theft.
• Higher fuel consumption than sedans or crossovers.
• Taxation and technical inspection — in some countries, pickups are considered commercial vehicles.

Examples of pickups

• Toyota Hilux
• Ford Ranger
• Nissan Navara
• Mitsubishi L200
• Isuzu D-Max

• Ford F-150
• Chevrolet Silverado
• Ram 1500
• GMC Sierra

• Tesla Cybertruck (electric)
• Rivian R1T (electric)
• Mercedes-Benz X-Class (based on Nissan Navara)

• Ford F-150 has been the most popular vehicle in the USA for over 40 years.
• In many countries, pickups are exempt from tax as "commercial vehicles," even if used privately.
• Modern pickups can have leather interiors, adaptive cruise control, navigation, heated seats, etc.
• In rural areas, pickups are almost indispensable: they can carry hay, a tiller, fuel, anything.
• More and more electric pickups are emerging, such as Cybertruck, Rivian R1T, Ford F-150 Lightning.
• Manufacturers offer luxury versions with a high level of comfort.
• The popularity of pickups is growing in Europe, where they were previously rare.

What is a liftback?

• 4 or 5 doors, where the fifth is a large rear trunk lid with glass.
• Profile — similar to a sedan but with a more sloping roof.
• The trunk is often larger and more convenient than in a sedan, thanks to the wide opening and foldable seats.

• 1965 — the first serial liftback is considered the Renault 16.
• In the 1970s and 80s, Ford Capri, Toyota Celica Liftback, Mazda 626 Liftback appeared.
• In the 2000s, models like Skoda Octavia, Audi A5 Sportback became popular — where prestigious appearance and practicality are combined.
• Liftbacks are actively used in the business segment, taxis, and family transport.

1. Larger trunk opening — convenient for loading large items.
2. Larger trunk volume than in a sedan.
3. Foldable seats — the ability to transport even long items.
4. More elegant appearance than a regular hatchback.
5. Aerodynamic profile, sometimes better than that of sedans.

• Less privacy in the trunk — due to the glass rear door.
• May lag behind a sedan in sound insulation (especially due to large doors).
• Not as compact as a hatchback.
• Some manufacturers do not clearly distinguish liftbacks from hatchbacks or fastbacks — which creates confusion.

• Skoda Octavia Liftback
• Toyota Corolla Liftback
• Mazda 6 Liftback

• Audi A5 Sportback
• BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe
• Kia Stinger

• Tesla Model S
• Porsche Taycan (some versions)

• Skoda Octavia Liftback is so practical that it is often confused with a station wagon.
• In some models, the rear liftback lid has electric drive, like in crossovers.
• “Gran Coupe” or “Sportback” are commercial names for premium liftbacks (in BMW, Audi).
• A liftback is one of the best compromises between a family car and a business class vehicle.

What is a fastback?

• Externally resembles a coupe or sedan but has a continuous roof line to the trunk.
• The rear is very sloping — often more than in a liftback.
• Can have a traditional trunk (like a sedan) or a hatch that opens with the glass (like a liftback).
• Often produced in the sports or luxury segment.

• 1930s–40s — the first fastbacks appeared in the USA and Europe: Chevrolet Fleetline, Ford Zephyr.
• In the 1960s and 70s — the peak of the American muscle car era with fastback design: Ford Mustang Fastback, Dodge Charger.
• In the 21st century, fastbacks became popular in the premium segment — combining the appearance of a coupe with practicality (for example, Audi A7, BMW 8 Series Gran Coupe).

1. Stylish, sporty appearance — attracts attention, looks premium.
2. Better aerodynamics than a regular sedan.
3. In models with a hatch — convenient access to the trunk.
4. Often — high level of equipment, focusing on comfort and status.

• Less headroom in the back due to the sloping roof.
• The trunk compartment is often smaller in volume than in a liftback or station wagon.
• More expensive to produce and maintain, as fastbacks are often premium.
• Not every fastback model has practical cargo access (there are fastbacks with "sedan-like" trunks).

• Ford Mustang Fastback (1965–69)
• Dodge Charger (1970s)

• Audi A7 Sportback
• Kia Stinger
• BMW 8 Series Gran Coupe
• Porsche Panamera

• Tesla Model S
• Lucid Air
• Hyundai Ioniq 6

• The name "fastback" literally means "fast back" — that is, a shape that looks fast even in a static position.
• In some cases, "fastback" and "liftback" are the same model, but with different marketing emphasis: style or practicality.
• Tesla Model S is often considered a fastback, although functionally it is a liftback.