Categorizing cars isn't as simple as counting models, as they can be grouped by body style, size, powertrain, and purpose. A practical and widely used system for American consumers breaks them down into about ten primary categories. These range from everyday passenger vehicles like sedans, SUVs, and trucks to more specialized vehicles like sports cars and electric vehicles (EVs). The best category for you depends entirely on your lifestyle, needs, and budget.
The most common way to classify cars is by body style, which refers to the vehicle's shape, door count, and interior layout. Here’s a breakdown of the primary types you'll encounter:
| Category | Key Characteristics | Typical Examples | Ideal For |
|---|
| Sedan | Four doors, separate trunk, three-box design | Toyota Camry, Honda Accord | Families, commuters, fuel efficiency |
| SUV (Sport Utility Vehicle) | Elevated ride height, optional AWD/4WD, versatile cargo space | Ford Explorer, Honda CR-V | Active families, rough weather, cargo hauling |
| Truck (Pickup) | Open cargo bed (bed), high towing capacity | Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado | Construction, towing, outdoor recreation |
| Hatchback | Five doors (including the rear hatch), versatile cargo area | Volkswagen Golf, Hyundai Elantra GT | City driving, easy cargo loading |
| Coupe | Two doors, sportier silhouette, often less rear seat room | Ford Mustang, Chevrolet Camaro | Style-focused drivers, performance |
| Minivan | Sliding doors, spacious and configurable interior, low step-in height | Honda Odyssey, Chrysler Pacifica | Large families, maximum passenger and cargo space |
| Wagon | Elongated roofline combining sedan comfort with SUV-like cargo space | Subaru Outback, Volvo V60 | Drivers needing more space than a sedan but not an SUV's height |
| Sports Car | High-performance engine, precise handling, focused on driving dynamics | Porsche 911, Chevrolet Corvette | Driving enthusiasts, track days |
| Convertible | Retractable roof (soft-top or hardtop) for open-air driving | Mazda MX-5 Miata, Ford Mustang Convertible | Leisure driving, sunny climates |
| Electric Vehicle (EV) | Fully powered by a battery, requires charging, instant torque | Tesla Model 3, Ford Mustang Mach-E | Eco-conscious drivers, low operating costs |
Beyond body style, vehicles are also classified by size (subcompact, compact, midsize, full-size) and powertrain, including hybrids, which combine a gasoline engine with an electric motor. The rise of EVs has also created new sub-categories like crossovers, which blend SUV styling with car-like platforms.
