what is considered a full size car

[NolanFitz]

A full-size car is a vehicle classification defined by the EPA as the largest standard passenger car category, typically offering seating for five or more adults and the most interior space among non-luxury sedans. The key identifiers are a wheelbase of over 118 inches and an overall length often exceeding 200 inches. Historically known as "land yachts," modern full-size sedans balance spaciousness with improved fuel efficiency. They are characterized by powerful engines, usually a V6 or V8, and a focus on ride comfort and passenger room over sporty handling. Common examples include the Toyota Avalon, Chrysler 300, Dodge Charger, and Nissan Maxima.

The primary advantage of a full-size car is its cavernous interior. Both front and rear passengers enjoy exceptional legroom and headroom, making long journeys comfortable for everyone. The trunk space is also significantly larger than in midsize cars, easily accommodating luggage for a family vacation. The ride quality is another major selling point; the longer wheelbase helps absorb road imperfections, resulting in a smooth, quiet, and stable experience on the highway.

While they offer unparalleled space, there are trade-offs. Full-size cars typically have lower fuel economy than smaller vehicles due to their weight and larger engines. They can also be more challenging to maneuver and park in tight urban environments. In today's market, the popularity of full-size sedans has been largely supplanted by similarly spacious but more versatile SUVs. However, for those who prioritize a comfortable, traditional car driving experience with maximum interior volume, a full-size sedan remains a compelling choice.

Attribute	Typical Full-Size Car Specification	Benchmark Example (Toyota Avalon)
EPA Vehicle Class	Large Car	Large Car
Passenger Capacity	5 adults	5 adults
Overall Length	196 - 204 inches	195.9 inches
Wheelbase	111 - 115 inches	113.0 inches
Front Legroom	42+ inches	42.1 inches
Rear Legroom	40+ inches	40.1 inches
Cargo Volume	15-18 cubic feet	16.1 cubic feet
Base Engine	V6 or Turbocharged 4-cylinder	3.5L V6
Horsepower	290 - 400 hp	301 hp
EPA Combined MPG	22 - 28 mpg	24 mpg

[VonBennett]

For me, it's all about not feeling cramped. A full-size car means I can sit in the backseat behind my tall husband without my knees touching the front seat. We take a lot of road trips to see family, and that extra legroom and a giant trunk for all our stuff makes all the difference. It just feels more comfortable and relaxed than being squeezed into a smaller car. It’s the difference between arriving tense and arriving ready to visit.

[ThomasAnn]

Think of it as the mainstream sedan hierarchy. You have compact, then midsize, and at the top is full-size. The official EPA definition is key: it's the "Large Car" class. This isn't about subjective feel; it's about measurable interior volume—specifically, over 120 cubic feet of combined passenger and cargo space. They are engineered for comfort on long hauls, with a focus on isolating passengers from road noise and vibration. The driving experience is best described as "commanding" rather than "sporty."

[OliveLynn]

I remember my dad’s old Buick LeSabre—that was a full-size car. It was long, wide, had a bench seat in the front, and floated down the road. Today's versions are sleeker, but the idea is the same: maximum comfort for passengers. It’s the car you buy when you don’t want an SUV but still need room for a family and their gear. They’re great for highway driving but can be a handful in a crowded grocery store parking lot.