How are cars classified into different grades?

[ElliottRose]

Currently, the most widely used method for classifying cars is the German system, which divides vehicles into A00, A0, A, B, C, and D grades. This classification is primarily based on parameters such as wheelbase, engine displacement, and weight. Below is relevant information: 1. Since engine displacement is difficult to determine unless you are familiar with the specific car, and the platform is even harder to identify than engine displacement, the most common method of classification is by wheelbase length. 2. Micro cars (A00 grade) typically refer to models with a wheelbase below 2400mm. Small cars (A0 grade) usually refer to models with a wheelbase between 2400-2550mm. Compact cars (A grade) generally refer to models with a wheelbase between 2550-2700mm, and this category represents the mainstream of family sedans. Midsize cars (B grade) typically refer to models with a wheelbase between 2700-2850mm, and this category often serves both family and business purposes. Full-size cars (C grade) usually refer to models with a wheelbase between 2850-3000mm, and this category represents the mainstream of business vehicles.

[LeAmelia]

Car classifications are typically divided by size, price, and purpose, based on my decade-long driving experience. Economy sedans like the Nissan Sylphy and Toyota Corolla, classified as A-segment cars, are affordable, fuel-efficient, and durable, making them ideal for everyday family use. B-segment cars such as the Volkswagen Passat and Honda Accord offer more space and better features, making them suitable for business trips and adding a touch of prestige. C-segment luxury cars like the Audi A6 and Mercedes-Benz E-Class are often used for business receptions or by executives. Above these are the premium D-segment cars, such as the Lexus LS and BMW 7 Series, which cost over a million and feature rear seating akin to a mobile living room. SUVs follow a similar classification—compact models like the Honda CR-V, midsize like the Toyota Highlander, and full-size like the Ford Explorer—each catering to different family sizes and travel needs. Nowadays, new energy vehicles also have their own classification systems. Ultimately, choosing a car depends on actual usage scenarios and personal budget.

[AxelLee]

After repairing cars for seven or eight years myself, I've noticed that people commonly classify vehicles based on wheelbase and engine displacement. Micro cars with a wheelbase of 2-2.3 meters, represented by models like the Fit, are convenient for urban commuting and parking. Compact cars with a wheelbase of 2.4-2.6 meters, such as the Civic, offer a balanced combination of power and handling. Mid-size cars with a wheelbase of 2.7-2.9 meters, like the Camry, provide ample rear legroom. Executive-level cars with a wheelbase exceeding 2.9 meters, such as the A6, deliver a more comfortable driving and riding experience. SUVs follow a similar classification: compact SUVs around 4.3 meters like the RAV4, and full-size SUVs over 5 meters like the Escalade. Engine displacement is also a key indicator: below 1.5 liters is considered small-displacement and economical, 2.0-3.0 liters falls into the mid-to-high range, and above 3.0 liters typically denotes luxury configurations. In China, there's also a unique classification based on price ranges: under 150,000 RMB for economy models, 150,000-300,000 RMB for mid-range, 300,000-500,000 RMB for mid-to-high-end, and over a million RMB for ultra-luxury vehicles.

[DeSavannah]

Car classifications can also be distinctly differentiated by brand positioning. Entry-level models of mainstream brands are mostly compact cars like the Polo, with core models being compact sedans such as the Corolla and Sagitar, while mid-size sedans like the Camry represent higher tiers. Luxury brands have more granular segmentation, with models like the Audi A4 and BMW 3 Series serving as entry-level luxury, the A6 and 5 Series as mid-range luxury, and the S-Class and 7 Series as flagship luxury. Ultra-luxury brands like Porsche categorize their offerings into different lineups, such as the 911 sports car and Cayenne SUV. In the new energy sector, the NIO ET5 is classified as a mid-size electric sedan, while the ET7 is positioned as an executive-level model. I've noticed a trend where many cars now compete beyond their traditional segments, such as the Xingrui, which offers B-segment dimensions at an A-segment price, or domestic brands that provide luxurious configurations at affordable price points, blurring the conventional boundaries of vehicle classification.

[LeCooper]

I remember in the 1990s, car classifications in China were very simple, just divided into sedans and off-road vehicles. The Santana was called an entry-level sedan, while the Audi 100 was considered mid-level. After the introduction of international classification standards in 2000, categories were further segmented from A0 to D-class. A0-class represents micro cars like the Polo, A-class includes models like the Lavida and Sagitar, while B-class covers the Passat and Accord. In recent years, due to consumption upgrades and the impact of new energy vehicles, new classifications have emerged: commuter cars like the Wuling Hongguang MINI, smart cars represented by the XPeng P7, and high-performance vehicles like the Tesla Model S. I particularly enjoy observing crossover models, such as the Lynk & Co 09, a mid-to-large SUV that combines MPV space with off-road capability, blurring the traditional boundaries between sedans, SUVs, and MPVs.

[LeKennedy]

Only by driving cars of different classes can one truly understand the vast differences in driving experiences. Microcars are nimble in the city but feel unstable at high speeds, like the Panda, which is perfect for grocery runs and school pickups. Compact cars like the Golf offer precise handling and good cornering support but can be tiring on long trips. Driving a midsize sedan like the Magotan on the highway is exceptionally stable, with seats that provide excellent support. One test drive of an S-Class was truly eye-opening—its air suspension smoothed out bumps like riding a magic carpet, and the sound insulation was so good you couldn’t hear the engine inside. The SUV experience is even more distinct. Models like the CR-V offer a high seating position and great visibility, while the Highlander shows noticeable body roll over speed bumps. Step into an Aviator, and you feel the security of driving a tank. The difference with pure electric cars lies in their smart systems. The Geometry E comes with basic configurations, while the Zeekr 001’s driver-assistance features rival those of million-dollar luxury cars.