Why do SUVs have more space than sedans despite being shorter?

[VanNaomi]

Because the rear seats of a sedan cannot utilize the trunk space, while SUVs have a higher trunk roof, allowing the rear seats to be moved back a few centimeters. Here are the differences between SUVs and sedans: 1. Visibility: Due to their higher chassis and open exterior design, SUVs offer a better field of vision; sedans have a relatively lower chassis, resulting in a smaller field of vision compared to SUVs. 2. Comfort: Sedan seats are longer than those in SUVs, and their design is more ergonomic, allowing passengers to relax and lean back comfortably, making sedans more comfortable than SUVs.

[LaIsabella]

I've driven many cars and found that while SUVs may look shorter in appearance, their interior space is indeed much larger than sedans, mainly due to more rational design. The SUV body resembles a tall box with an almost vertical roofline, unlike the sloping roofline of sedans, which creates significantly more headroom – even adults won't feel cramped in the back seats. Additionally, the higher chassis combined with forward-positioned seating and optimized wheel placement makes the cabin depth more practical. Every family trip feels more spacious whether loading luggage or installing child seats, with an airy, unobstructed feeling inside. This is the brilliance of SUV design.

[AdrianDella]

As an ordinary person who enjoys working on cars, I believe the key to an SUV's spaciousness lies in its vertical height and interior layout. Although shorter in length, the taller body allows for more vertical space, much like a low-rise building can have multiple floors, whereas a sedan is more like a narrow tower, losing volume due to its sloping design. The higher seating position lets you stretch your legs, and the deep trunk can easily accommodate several large bags. Compared to sedans, SUVs have slightly smaller wheels but a more compact design, with all the saved space going to the passengers. When changing tires, I noticed the chassis construction is sturdier, and driving to work feels less stuffy inside, with excellent visibility even on rainy days.

[FelicityDella]

Let me talk about the driving experience. SUVs often have a shorter front end, but the cabin is pushed further back, and the wheel arches don't take up much space, so the actual usable interior space is significantly increased. When you sit in the driver's seat, you feel spacious around you, with your knees not touching the front, and the trunk is deep enough to store a lot of camping gear. On weekends when taking the kids out, even the three small seats feel too big, whereas a sedan would be extremely cramped. All of this is thanks to the simple body design, with more straight lines and fewer curves. The engineering team cleverly used an efficient space layout that is neither wasteful nor unsafe.

[JohnDella]

Comparing SUVs and sedans makes it clear why. Many SUVs are like compact versions, with their length reduced by ten centimeters, yet their space is doubled. The boxy body and flat roof minimize wasted space, while the higher seat design allows for easy entry and exit. I often help friends move, and while hatchback sedans are short, they can only fit a few boxes. In contrast, even a slightly shorter SUV can fill up the entire cargo area, with the height of the rear compartment being a huge advantage. Additionally, the slightly wider wheelbase supports interior expansion, making the overall driving experience stable and comfortable.