All Car Body Types (30+) & Their Distinct Features

Starting as humble horse-drawn carriages, the evolution of car body types has been a fascinating journey and today’s car market can offer us more types of cars than we could have ever imagined would be possible. The automotive landscape is one of the most dynamic ones, with car manufacturers continually introducing new segments and hybrids.

The classification of cars is inherently fluid since numerous models have different aesthetics that can blur the lines between existing categories or introduce entirely new ones. But we are here to help clear up some of the confusion by providing a list of iconic car types and what makes them unique.

Table Of Contents

1 Car Body Types: The Ultimate List
2 What About Sports Cars?
- 2.1 The Difference Between Vehicle Body Type, Size Type, Class And Specific Design
3 Car Body Types Popularity
4 Future Trends In Car Body Looks
5 Which Of These Car Body Styles Is Best For Your Next Hire?
6 Frequently Asked Questions
7 Conclusion

Car Body Types: The Ultimate List

Here’s a guide to the most popular car body types, from city cars to large vehicles with four-wheel drive.

1. Hatchback

So, what is a hatchback? Hatchbacks are well-known vehicles and among the most popular for a reason. These city cars stand out from the rest as a versatile and practical body type with low running costs. As such, they cater to a wide range of drivers. No matter if you’re a young professional or a family living in a big city, this car can suit you.

The term ‘hatchback’ comes from the hatch-type rear door in this vehicle. This type of door can be found in a sport utility vehicle or a large luxury car. The hatchback started with its first model, the Citroen Traction Avant 11CV Commerciale, and over time it evolved into a vehicle with a wide range of designs.

Here are the most prominent hatchback types:

Hot hatches

Hot hatches are performance-oriented types of hatchbacks. With their more powerful engines and sport-tuned suspension, you’ll find an exhilarating driving experience. This type of car balances practicality with performance, which makes it a great choice for drivers who prefer sportier rides but aren’t willing to give up everyday usability.

Kammback

This hatchback type emphasises aerodynamics, featuring a sharply cut-off rear end. It was designed back in the 1930s by Georg Hans His Madelung. The streamlined shape reduces drag and enhances fuel efficiency. Kammback cars also have a distinctive appearance with a flat back, so with this car, you get a blend of aerodynamic efficiency and style.

It’s important to note that this design isn’t limited to hatchbacks, since it can be found on various types of vehicles, such as estate cars or saloon cars.

Sportback

The concept of sportbacks started with Audi models, and as time went by, the term became a standard way to describe a car whose design was a mix between a traditional hatchback and a coupe. The sportback combined the hatchback’s practicality with the sleek aesthetics of coupes. The sloping rear roofline of sportbacks, however, limits their cargo space when compared to traditional hatchbacks.

Liftback

This car design features the very best of various cars, but most resembles a hatchback. The elongated rear design of liftbacks contributes to their elegant and sophisticated appearance. The sleek design can also provide more boot space. In this way, they are very similar to station waggons. Like most traditional hatchbacks, liftbacks tend to have foldable rear seats that allow you to increase the boot space.

Reach out to SDVH when you need a small car on short notice. We offer hatchback rental services ranging from Fiat 500 to VW Golf hire, suitable for city driving.

2. Estate (Station Waggon)

Estate cars have a distinctive elongated body with a roofline that extends to the rear, which creates a large boot space. They typically also have a rear hatch or tailgate, which allows easy access to extended cargo space.

Estates gained the name ‘station waggon‘ back in the 20s, and it reflected their use in transporting passengers and their luggage between train stations and hotels.

Contact SDVH for the best estate car rental deals when you need a spacious vehicle for your family trips.

Hearse

A hearse is a specialised vehicle that transports the deceased. It typically features elongated looks, and it has an enclosed rear compartment that is specifically designed to accommodate caskets. Their primary purpose is to transport deceased individuals and their caskets or coffins.

The exterior of hearses is often painted with subdued colours, with black being the traditional choice.

3. Saloon (Sedan)

The sedan, or saloon, is a great family car that has 4 doors and a separate trunk. Sedans are often called the three-box cars and mostly serve as executive vehicles.

In this car body style, boot space is separated from the passenger compartment, which makes it slightly less practical than a family hatchback. However, a saloon car and its longer wheelbase will provide you with more interior space for passengers and a comfortable ride.

The first saloon car was the 1899 Renault Voiturette Type B, a two-door car with an external seat for a driver. Over time and with the development of technology, this passenger car improved in safety, fuel efficiency and in-car amenities. You can find saloon cars in various shapes and sizes. Some of the most notable brands that produce it are Audi and Mercedes.

Check out our diverse range of saloon cars, which includes everything from the Ford Mondeo for casual errands to the Mercedes E Class and Mercedes C Class Automatic for special occasions.

Fastback

Fastback saloon cars prioritise aesthetic elegance by adopting a streamlined silhouette that flows from the front to the rear. The sloping roofline of this saloon car contributes to a sportier and more dynamic appearance.

4. SUV (Sports Utility Vehicle)

SUV models are recognised by their slightly higher driving position and robust design. This is the dream vehicle for those who like to go on outdoor adventures since its four-wheel drive allows you to explore various types of rough terrain. The first SUV was the 1935 Chevrolet Suburban, setting the foundation for other high-quality vehicles.

In these modern times, you can find SUVs in compact, mid-size and full-size models. You can also opt for hybrid or electric models. Other than their off-road capability, they can serve well for motorway driving, and they don’t compromise on passenger or boot space either.

Whether it’s an off-roading adventure or a trip to unfamiliar terrain, SDVH offers reliable SUVs for hire, so you can travel in style and with confidence.

5. CUV (Crossover Utility Vehicle)

If you can’t decide between SUVs and sedans, you’ll be pleased to know there is a distinctive body type that combines the features of both. Crossover utility vehicles are built on a unibody chassis, which offers a car-like driving experience while incorporating SUV-inspired design elements.

They generally offer raised ground clearance and spacious interiors. The late 1990s and early 2000s witnessed a surge in the popularity of CUVs. As soon as they entered the market, crossovers quickly became the preferred choice among many drivers.

6. MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle / People Carrier / Minivan)

Multi-purpose vehicles, also known as minivans or people carriers, are vehicles with a focus on maximising passenger and cargo efficiency. They are characterised by a boxy or elongated body shape, sliding doors and a high roofline.

If family transport and other passenger-centric needs are the most important things for your lease car, there is no doubt this is the right car for you. You can check out our MPV and people carrier hire offers for easy access to these vehicles.

7. Pick-Up & Ute

Both pick-ups and utes (utility vehicles) fall under the category of light trucks and are characterised by an open cargo bed at the rear. They serve commercial purposes. Both of them have the ability to transport goods, tools and equipment. Moreover, the open cargo area ensures easier loading and unloading. Ute is not such a common type of car, however, its structure is very similar to a pick-up.

Most pickups have a body-on-body rather than the unibody frame in most cars. This refers to a vehicle whose body and chassis are a single piece, which provides structural strength and rigidity. When it comes to body-on-body frames, it involves a distinct separation between the vehicle’s body and its underlying chassis. This frame is often associated with trucks, SUVs, and other off-road vehicles.

See here to learn more about pickup trucks.

8. Coupe

Coupes are cars with two doors and a fixed roof. They usually have a more compact and sporty design. The term ‘coupe’ originally referred to a horse-drawn carriage that was used to transport passengers. In the automotive context, coupes emerged in the early 20th century. Over the years, these two-door cars evolved in design, incorporating innovative interior features. The emphasis on style and performance remained a constant theme.

Muscle coupe cars are a subset of coupes that specifically emphasise high-performance engines and a muscular design. They feature aggressive styling, often with bold lines and aerodynamic features. There is also the pony car, which is a smaller version of the muscle with a youthful design.

9. Grand Tourer (GT / Gran Tourismo)

The Grand Tourer is a car that’s very similar to a coupe. It boasts high performance, comfort and style. When it comes to its interior, it’s characterised by deluxe materials, advanced comfort features and attention to detail.

The first GT car was the 929 Alfa Romeo 6C 1750 Gran Turismo. The term ‘Gran Tourismo’ was borrowed from a popular Italian phrase in the 1950s that referred to fast touring cars. While they share the two-door body style with coupes, GT cars are chunkier, usually more angular and rugged and designed for comfort. The coupes, on the other hand, put emphasis on sportier and compact design. The Grand Tourer is definitely a better choice for longer travel.

10. Shooting Brake

This type of city car is for those who know how to appreciate the allure of a niche body style. A shooting brake is a car body style that offers a mix of coupe and estate features with a sleeker and more stylish design. It typically has a two-door configuration and a large boot space, making it stand out among other cars.

The name ‘shooting brake’ was derived from the 19th-century British term for a horse-drawn waggon that transported shooting parties and their equipment during hunting trips. This city car type bridges the gap between sports cars and practical estates, resulting in a unique blend of style, performance and cargo-carrying capability. Mercedes-Benz boasts notable models of this car body type.

11. Convertible (Cabriolet)

Convertible cars, often referred to as cabriolets, feature a retractable roof that can be folded down or removed. This allows passengers to enjoy an open-air driving experience. Because of that, this body type is characterised by its versatility. The golden age of convertibles was in the 1950s and 1960s.

The major categories of the convertible include:

Targa

This convertible was introduced by Porsche in the 1960s. It’s a semi-convertible style that features a removable roof section and a roll bar. The term ‘Targa’ originated from Targa Florio, which is a race where Porche achieved notable victories.

T-top

Popularised in the 1970s and 1980s, T-top cars had removable panels above the driver and passenger cabin, providing an open-roof experience while also maintaining a structural centre bar.

Cabrio Coach

Cabrio Coach refers to a convertible with a fully retractable roof, which is usually made of fabric. With this car, you can seamlessly transition from a closed coupe-like appearance to an open-top configuration. If you opt for a modern model, it usually features automated, electrically operated roofs.

12. Roadster (Spyder)

A roadster is a two-seat convertible or open-top car, often with an emphasis on sporty design and performance. When it comes to these cars, you’ll often see a retractable roof or no roof at all and a strong engine, which will provide you with a thrilling driving experience. Targa and T-top convertibles can also be roadsters.

With the rise of electric vehicles, there are also electric roadsters on the market. A notable example is the Tesla Roadster. It’s a perfect way to combine an exhilarating driving experience with sustainable technology. We have a guide that fully explains what a roadster is.

13. Microcar

As their very name suggests, microcars are small, lightweight vehicles. They are designed for urban commuting and efficiency. A microcar typically features a compact body with a minimalistic design, often accommodating only a few passengers. One of the first microcars was a 1949 Bond Minicar.

These types of vehicles gained popularity in densely populated areas where their small size and manoeuvrability made them ideal for navigating narrow streets and limited parking spaces. In recent years, manufacturers worldwide have continued to produce microcars, often incorporating modern design, safety features and advanced technology to make them the perfect city cars.

14. Limousine

A limousine is categorised as a luxury, prolonged sedan, but we can all agree that they deserve to be talked about as a body type on their own. It’s a vehicle with a spacious and opulent interior, perfect for any kind of special occasion. It’s believed that the term ‘limousine’ originated from the French region of Limousin, where the shepherds wore a protective hood similar to the covered compartment of early limousines.

They are also intended to provide exceptional levels of comfort and amenities, transforming them into a symbol of status and sophistication. On top of that, they are commonly chauffeur-driven. Many limousines can provide you with a privacy partition between the driver and you. It’s also often equipped with controls for audio and climate.

Luxury car manufacturers such as Rolls-Royce, Bentley and Mercedes-Benz have produced iconic limousine models.

15. Landaulet (Landaulette)

A landaulet is an automobile with a convertible or partially convertible rear section. The front section, where the driver is seated, remains enclosed, while the rear section can be open to the elements. This car body type is also often associated with prestigious and ceremonial events.

As with many other cars before, landaulets also originated from horse-drawn carriages. This type of carriage features a convertible rear section for passengers, which provides an open-air experience during pleasant weather. Many landaulets were crafted by custom coach builders who worked on the chassis styles of prestigious automakers. It’s also a vehicle that has been favoured for official use, such as presidential transport.

16. High-Performance Cars

High-performance cars represent the pinnacle of automotive engineering and racing. These vehicles push the boundaries of what is possible on the road and racetrack. Each high-performance car is designed for exceptional speed, agility and peak overall driving dynamics. This car body type encompasses a range of car types, with the following ones being the main ones:

Hypercars

Hypercars are high-level cars that supersede other cars in terms of speed, technology and exclusivity. These vehicles are characterised by very high cost and limited production. Hypercars tend to push the limit of speed, reaching up to 330 mph (531 kph).

Supercars

Supercars offer exotic designs, often with sleek, low-profile and distinctive styling. They are engineered for incredible acceleration and top speeds, which are achieved through powerful engines and lightweight construction. Many supercars are produced in limited numbers, making them more exclusive.

Check out the major difference between hypercars and supercars.

Rally cars

Rally cars are equipped with features like all-wheel drive, robust suspension and specialised tyres to navigate varied terrains. One of the defining characteristics of this car is turbocharging, which provides increased power and torque for competitive racing. They are designed to withstand all the rigours that off-roading and racing bring.

F1 cars

These cars boast cutting-edge technology, and they feature advanced materials, hybrid-power units and intricate aerodynamics. F1 cars are single-seaters, so there are no front or rear seats for passengers, and every car component is finely tuned for performance.

17. Kei Car

Kei cars, short for kei-jidōsha in Japanese, are compact, lightweight cars that adhere to strict regulations in Japan. Their body type is characterised by its small size, limited engine displacement and distinct design. Since they are easy to manoeuvre and fuel-efficient, they tend to be popular in urban areas.

One more thing that makes them an attractive choice is that they enjoy certain tax and insurance benefits. The government regulations also specified size constraints that kei cars must adhere to. This includes length, width, height and engine size.

Kei cars emerged during the post-war period, when economic conditions favoured the development of small, affordable vehicles. The leading kei car manufacturer is Daihatsu, which sold 539,000 kei cars in 2022. Lately, manufacturers have also introduced electric kei cars to align with sustainability goals.

18. Panel Truck

Panel trucks are motor vehicles designed with a fully enclosed cargo area at the rear and lacing side windows. They are known for their box-like structure, which provides additional space for transporting goods or equipment. When it comes to their history, they have roots in the early 20th century, when commercial vehicles started becoming integral to businesses for transporting goods. Panel trucks were utilised for local deliveries and transportation needs by various industries.

19. Car Body Styles From The Past

Now that we covered the most important car body types at the moment, let’s take a trip back to the past and discover some more iconic body styles.

Brougham

The brougham was first a closed, four-wheeled carriage. It had an enclosed passenger cabin. It evolved into a luxurious, enclosed car body style with a separate, fully enclosed passenger compartment.

Phaeton

The phaeton started as an open, lightweight carriage with minimal or no doors at all and a convertible top. In the automotive context, the term has been used to describe a body style with open-top, often sporty cars with minimal weather protection.

Landau

One more carriage-inspired car is the Landau. As a carriage, it was characterised by a convertible or folding top over the rear passenger compartment. When it evolved into a car, the term landau referred to a luxury car with a vinyl-covered or simulated convertible top.

What About Sports Cars?

While reading our list, you’ve probably found yourself confused, waiting for the sports car category to pop up. We have an explanation for this. Sports cars do not have a unique body type but rather fall into a specific class or style, much like luxury cars.

In our car body types list, sports cars aren’t explicitly a separate category. Instead, we encompassed them within their respective classes or styles. Supercars, roadsters, targas and T-tops are often considered variations of sports cars.

Similarly, grand tourers share characteristics with targas and fall into a comparable category. The distinction between body types and classes is crucial for accurate categorisation of the vehicle.

The Difference Between Vehicle Body Type, Size Type, Class And Specific Design

Knowing about car body types is the first step in getting to know what kind of vehicles you should opt for. To make the best possible decision, you should also be aware of the vehicle’s class, size and specific design. Here is what each of those features represents:

Body type – It refers to the general structure and layout of the vehicle. As such, it describes the fundamental design characteristics.
Class – Category of vehicles based on similar characteristics, features and marketing positioning. When you know about the vehicle’s class, it will help you identify models that suit your preferences. The notable examples are economy and luxury cars.
Size – Relates to the dimensions of the vehicle. It includes length, width, height and wheelbase. Size is a crucial factor in determining models that are practical enough and fit their needs.
Specific design – As the name suggests, it represents the unique aesthetic and functional features of a particular vehicle model. A good example could be the sloping roofline of the kammback.

Car Body Types Popularity

Throughout the whole history of cars, a diverse array of car body types have emerged to meet the needs and preferences of various drivers. The following are the most popular ones:

The UK has already decided on its favourite, and it’s a compact and practical family hatchback. They often appeal to budget-conscious consumers. The family hatchback is a true lifesaver for families that live in crowded cities. With foldable rear seats, these city cars allow you to increase the boot space when you need to.

Sedans are historically popular globally, often on the best-selling lists. They provide comfort, space and fuel efficiency. The Toyota Corolla, a compact sedan model, has been the absolute favourite in 2022. Even in earlier days, in the early to mid-20th century, the dominant car body style was the sedan, which can attest to its quality.

When it comes to the US market, sedans have seen some decline due to the rise of SUVs and crossover cars. The vehicle boasts a four-wheel drive, which allows residents to embark on challenging off-roading with ease.

The growing focus on sustainability contributed to the fact that the Tesla Model Y has become the best-selling car of 2023. It’s a fully electric, mid-size SUV car.

Future Trends In Car Body Looks

The future of automotive design promotes exciting trends in car body types. It will reflect evolving preferences, technological advancements and sustainability considerations. One prominent trend is the rise of electric and hybrid vehicles. Since the demand for these vehicles is only expected to increase, manufacturers are reimagining traditional shapes to optimise for electric drivetrains, which will lead to more futuristic and streamlined aesthetics.

Materials innovation is another frontier. Lightweight, sustainable materials are gaining prominence. This will influence body types to be not just visually appealing but also environmentally conscious. This shift will result in body styles that align with eco-friendly initiatives.

Plus, autonomous driving technology is reshaping interior layouts, which will influence the exterior as well. With reduced emphasis on driver-centric design, there’s room for reimagining body types.

Which Of These Car Body Styles Is Best For Your Next Hire?

The best car body style for your next hire will depend on your specific needs, preferences, budget, etc. Here are the most prominent choices:

Hatchbacks offer you the convenience of compact design which can prove valuable in urban environments. These city cars are easy to manoeuvre, and they typically offer good fuel efficiency. If you live with kids in a big city, the family hatchback is a great choice.

Unlike most city cars, an SUV is a dream come true for daring adventurers. With its four-wheel drive and higher driving position, it’s a perfect choice for a drive on off-road terrain.

MPVs are the perfect family car that has enough space to regularly carry passengers. The rear seats are comfortable and will make group travel feel like a breeze.

Convertibles are for hedonists who like to feel like royalty every time they get behind the wheel. It provides an open-air experience and stylish design. The coupe is another car with a sleek design and powerful performance. It’s also suitable for urban driving.

A saloon car is a perfect everyday car that can take you anywhere you need to, which allows it to become a dominant player in the global automotive market.

SDVH offers everything from economy cars for city driving to luxury car rental deals for those looking for maximum comfort. Book your preferred vehicle for any occasion today.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Know My Car Body Type?

You’ll know your car body type primarily based on its design. The whole process is usually very straightforward. No matter if it’s a compact car, estate car or saloon car, they all have distinct designs. Pay attention to the number of rear seats, doors and the roof structure. You could also check the documentation that comes with the vehicle. It will tell you everything you need to know.

What Car Is Best To Hire For Families?

The best car to hire for families is a multi-purpose vehicle (MVP). It’s a family vehicle that can have up to seven seats and can regularly carry passengers. Estate cars are also an amazing choice. Both of these cars are designed with a focus on interior space. You’ll have ample room for rear passengers and luggage. Safety is the top priority when it comes to families, and people carriers often come equipped with advanced safety features.

What Is The Most Common Car Body Type In The UK?

The most common car body type in the UK is a hatchback. It has a boot lid and rear windscreen as one unit. This is a great city car type that is often more affordable than larger cars. Their affordability extends to maintenance and running costs as well. If you’re living with kids in a big city, you can opt for a family hatchback. These are often smaller cars that are manoeuvrable in an urban environment but can still offer you just enough space if you’re a smaller family.

What Is The Fastest Car Body Type?

The fastest car body types are convertibles and coupes. Both of them can offer impressive speed and performance. When it comes to the speed of car body types, the key factors that influence it are the specific design, engineering and technological features of each model. Specifically, look out for high-performance hypercars or supercars.

The convertible design prioritises aerodynamics to maintain performance. When it comes to coupes, they have an advantage in structural rigidity but some models might sacrifice the open-air driving experience offered by convertibles.

What Is The Biggest Car Body Style?

The biggest car body styles are sports utility vehicles and multi-purpose vehicles. A multi-purpose vehicle is designed with a focus on interior space and rear passengers. This makes those vehicles great family cars. As for the sports utility vehicle, it typically boasts a four-wheel drive and raised driving position. When it’s a full-size type of car, it has ample passenger seating and boot space.

Conclusion

Now that you’re equipped with information about car body types, hiring a new vehicle will be a breeze. No matter if you’re in need of family cars with large boot space, want to try out a city car, or simply wish to impress your peers with the newest sports car, knowing some of the basic differences between the types of cars will always be helpful. On top of that, since now you know about the most famous car body types in the UK, it can help you make a decision and choose a car that aligns with the demands of the country.