A sedan is a passenger car with a distinct three-box design, featuring separate enclosed compartments for the engine, passengers, and cargo (trunk). This design is a classic configuration, exemplified by models like the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord. The primary advantage of this setup is the physical separation of the trunk from the passenger cabin, which reduces road and engine noise inside the car and helps keep odors from groceries or other cargo isolated.
Sedans are categorized by size, often using the EPA's vehicle class standards. Common classifications include subcompact, compact, mid-size, and full-size. Compared to other body styles like SUVs and hatchbacks, sedans typically offer a lower center of gravity, which contributes to better handling and a more car-like driving experience. For decades, the sedan has been the default choice for families and commuters, valued for its balanced approach to fuel efficiency, comfort, and trunk space. While SUVs have grown in popularity, modern sedans often offer more advanced standard safety features and better fuel economy than their SUV counterparts, making them a smart, practical choice for many drivers.
| Feature | Sedan | SUV (Compact Example) | Hatchback (Example) |
|---|
| Body Style | Three-box (separate trunk) | Two-box (integrated trunk/cabin) | Two-box (integrated trunk/cabin) |
| Cargo Access | Trunk lid | Liftgate | Rear hatch |
| Ride Height | Lower | Higher | Lower |
| Average Fuel Economy | Generally Higher | Generally Lower | Generally Higher |
| Cabin Noise | Often Quieter | Can be Noisier | Can be Noisier |
| Example Models | Honda Accord, Toyota Camry | Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4 | Honda Civic Hatchback, Volkswagen Golf |
