What do B-segment, C-segment, and D-segment cars mean?
4 Answers
B-segment, C-segment, and D-segment cars represent different vehicle classes, primarily categorized based on factors such as wheelbase and engine displacement. B-segment: B-segment mid-size passenger cars have a wheelbase ranging from 2.7 to 2.9 meters and engine displacements between 1.8 and 2.5 liters. Models such as the Mazda6, Accord, Mondeo, Sonata, Audi A4, Passat, and Toyota Camry all belong to the B-segment category. C-segment: C-segment premium passenger cars feature a wheelbase between 2.8 and 3.0 meters and engine displacements from 2.3 to 3.0 liters. Examples of C-segment cars include the Audi A6, BMW 5 Series, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. D-segment: D-segment luxury passenger cars are typically characterized by their imposing appearance, extremely spacious interiors, and powerful engines. These vehicles generally have a wheelbase exceeding 2.8 meters and engine displacements of 3.0 liters or more. D-segment models include the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, BMW 7 Series, Audi A8, as well as brands like Rolls-Royce and Bentley.
I usually do quite a lot of research on cars. Actually, Class B, C, and D are classified based on the size and positioning of the vehicle. Common models like the Passat and Accord belong to Class B, commonly known as mid-size cars, with a length of around 4.8 meters, making them very suitable for ordinary family use. Moving up, Class C represents mid-to-large-size cars, such as the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class, which have longer wheelbases allowing passengers to cross their legs comfortably in the back seat. Class D refers to top-tier luxury executive sedans, with lengths typically exceeding 5 meters, including models like the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and Audi A8, which come with configurations allowing passengers to lie flat and sleep in the back. The core standards for classification are wheelbase, engine displacement, and configuration level. Even the air vents in Class D cars come with fragrance systems.
Simply put, it's like the S/M/XL size differentiation in clothing. B-segment cars represent the golden mid-size sedan category, attracting the most buyers. Anyone who's driven a Magotan knows – it offers more spaciousness than compact cars while remaining agile. C-segment vehicles typically start with a 2.9m wheelbase, featuring more sophisticated suspension systems that glide over speed bumps with a single 'thud'. D-segment cars are essentially flagship models in the million-yuan range, with air suspension and four-seat heating/massage as standard. However, electric vehicles have disrupted this classification – the Tesla Model S has D-segment dimensions but is often discussed as a C-segment contender.
The most straightforward way to judge is by looking at the price range. Around 200,000 RMB will get you a solid B-segment car, like the Camry or Teana. The 400,000 to 700,000 RMB range mostly consists of C-segment luxury cars, with the base model of the Volvo S90 falling into this category. True D-segment cars start at over 700,000 RMB, featuring three-stage door hinges and a door-closing sound reminiscent of a safe locking. However, it's important to note that many cars now compete beyond their segment, such as the NIO ET7, an electric vehicle from new automakers, which exceeds 5.1 meters in length but is priced within the C-segment range.
