How are car classes determined?

[AmyRose]

Automobile classes are generally divided into six levels: A00, A0, A, B, C, and D. They can also be classified by engine displacement: micro cars (displacement below 1L), compact cars (displacement 1.01.6L), midsize cars (displacement 1.62.5L), executive cars (displacement 2.5~4.0L), and luxury cars (displacement above 4L). Below is a detailed classification: 1. A00 class: A00 passenger cars have a wheelbase between 2 to 2.3 meters and engine displacement below 1 liter, such as the Alto and Smart. 2. A0 class: A0 passenger cars have a wheelbase of 2.3 to 2.5 meters and displacement of 1 to 1.5 liters, typical examples being the Sail, Fit, Polo, Verna, and Fiesta. 3. A class: A-class cars have a wheelbase ranging from 2.5 to 2.7 meters and displacement around 1.5 to 2.0 liters, such as the Focus, Sagitar, Corolla, and Audi A3. A-class cars are the most commonly used family cars in China. 4. B class: B-class midsize passenger cars have a wheelbase of about 2.7 to 2.9 meters and displacement from 1.8 to 2.5 liters. The B-class market has gradually become the main battleground for domestic automakers, with models like the Mazda6, Accord, Mondeo, Sonata, Audi A4, Passat, and Toyota Camry belonging to this category. 5. C class: C-class executive cars have a wheelbase of about 2.8 to 3.0 meters and engine displacement from 2.3 to 3.0 liters. The most renowned C-class cars in China are the Audi A6, BMW 5 Series, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. 6. D class: D-class luxury passenger cars are mostly grand in appearance, with extremely spacious interiors and powerful engines. Their wheelbase is generally over 2.8 meters, and displacement is mostly above 3.0 liters. Common D-class cars include the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, BMW 7 Series, Audi A8, and models from Rolls-Royce and Bentley.

[StKennedy]

As a car owner, the classification of a car is typically based on its dimensions, such as wheelbase length and overall size. Compact cars have a wheelbase under 2600mm, making them suitable for city driving and parking; midsize cars feature a wheelbase of 2700-2900mm, offering more space; while large cars exceed 2900mm, providing a more spacious riding experience. Price is also a key factor—economy cars like the Fit, priced below 150,000 RMB, are entry-level; mid-range models like the Camry cost around 200,000 RMB; and luxury cars such as the S-Class, exceeding 500,000 RMB, belong to the premium segment. Engine displacement also defines classification: under 1.6L is considered compact, while above 3.0L denotes performance models. Market positioning, such as family SUVs or sports cars, may also consider cargo capacity or acceleration times. In summary, it’s determined by a combination of factors, simplifying our car selection process without being overly complex.

[DiLilah]

I've enjoyed discussing cars for years. Vehicle classifications in the industry are primarily determined by body dimensions and manufacturer intentions. Wheelbase serves as the core criterion, with compact cars typically ranging 2600-2800mm, midsize at 2800-2900mm, and full-size exceeding 2900mm. Powertrains influence classification - small-displacement engines like 1.5T belong to entry-level, while large V6 engines denote premium models. Price brackets are clearly defined: budget cars start at 100k RMB, mid-range at 200-300k, and luxury models exceed 500k. Brands like Mercedes-Benz position their C-Class as midsize, with the E-Class upgraded to executive class. Safety requirements such as crash tests and environmental standards (like China VI emissions) can also adjust classifications. Emerging trends show SUVs forming a separate category due to their elevated chassis and off-road capability. This systematic approach makes it easier for consumers to match vehicles with their needs.

[AdrielDella]

As a daily driver, car classifications are very practical for us, categorized by size and purpose. Small cars like the Polo have a short wheelbase, are fuel-efficient, and easy to park; mid-sized cars like the Accord offer more space, suitable for family use; large cars like the Crown provide comfort and luxury. SUVs are a higher class with higher ground clearance and more passenger capacity. Pricing tiers are clear: economy cars cost tens of thousands, mid-range cars around a hundred thousand, and luxury cars several hundred thousand. Engine power also matters—1.0L is for fuel efficiency, while 2.0L and above are considered sporty. Interior configurations like seat count also define the class, with five seats being standard and seven seats upgrading to family SUV level. Simply put, it helps us choose based on lifestyle needs, making it convenient and cost-effective.

[Juliette]

From a cost perspective, a car's class is directly tied to budget. Lower-priced cars under 100,000 yuan are mostly compact or small-sized models, with wheelbases around 2,600 mm, offering fuel efficiency and affordability. Mid-range cars priced between 150,000-250,000 yuan belong to the midsize class, featuring wheelbases of 2,800 mm and balanced space. High-end models above 300,000 yuan fall into the luxury category, boasting larger dimensions and more features. Engine displacement also serves as a boundary—below 1.6L for lower classes and above 2.0L for higher classes. Market positioning plays a role too; SUVs, due to their versatility, are sometimes classified separately, and insurance costs fluctuate by class. Emerging factors like electric vehicles with ranges over 400 km qualify as premium EV class. This helps allocate budgets clearly when purchasing a car.