What is a D-segment car?
2 Answers
According to the classification standards for car segments: D-segment cars refer to luxury sedans; A-segment cars (including A0/A00) refer to compact cars; B-segment cars are mid-range sedans, and C-segment cars are premium sedans. The classification is mainly based on parameters such as wheelbase, engine displacement, and weight. The further the letter in the alphabet, the longer the wheelbase, and the larger the displacement and weight of the car in that segment. D-segment luxury sedans generally have extremely spacious interiors and powerful engines, with a wheelbase typically exceeding 2.8 meters and a displacement mostly above 3.0 liters. Examples of D-segment cars include models from brands such as the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, BMW 7 Series, Audi A8, Rolls-Royce, and Bentley. A-segment cars are divided into three subcategories. Among them, A00 can also be referred to as micro-compact cars, with a wheelbase between 2.0 and 2.2 meters and an engine displacement below 1 liter. For example, the Alto belongs to the A00 segment. A0-segment cars have a wheelbase of 2.2 to 2.3 meters and a displacement of 1 to 1.3 liters, with the two-door Xiali being a typical example. Generally, A-segment cars have a wheelbase ranging from 2.3 to 2.45 meters and a displacement of about 1.3 to 1.6 liters. Classic models in this segment include the FAW-Volkswagen Jetta and SAIC Volkswagen POLO. B-segment mid-range sedans have a wheelbase of approximately 2.45 to 2.6 meters and a displacement ranging from 1.6 to 2.4 liters. In recent years, the B-segment market has gradually become the main battleground for domestic automakers. Models such as the Audi A4, Passat, Zhonghua, and Eastar all belong to the B-segment. Increasingly, B-segment cars outperform A-segment cars in terms of features and performance, while their prices are becoming more comparable to A-segment cars, which is a major reason for their growing popularity. C-segment premium sedans have a wheelbase of about 2.6 to 2.8 meters and an engine displacement of 2.3 to 3.0 liters. The most renowned C-segment car in China is undoubtedly the Audi A6.
I heard many people ask what a D-segment car is. Actually, it's a classification term referring to those large executive sedans or luxury sedans. In common classification systems, like those in Europe, it starts with A-segment small cars, B-segment for compact models, C-segment for slightly larger family cars, and then upgrades to D-segment—bigger in size with wheelbases often exceeding 2.8 meters, featuring luxurious and comfortable interiors suitable for business or family trips. Common examples include cars like the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class, which offer a stable ride. These cars are ideal for those who appreciate high quality but prefer not to be too flashy, offering ample power, spacious interiors, and fatigue-free seating. Remember, classification standards may vary slightly by region, but D-segment typically represents reliable and practical choices, comfortable even for long-distance driving.
