Car Body Styles Explained: Sedan, SUV, Truck, and Everything in Between

Body style is the single most visible classification of a vehicle, and it shapes everything from passenger space to cargo capacity to fuel economy.

Sedan

A three-box design with separate engine, passenger, and cargo compartments. Sedans are typically the most efficient body style for a given size, offering comfortable four-or-five-passenger seating with moderate cargo space. Examples: Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, BMW 3 Series.

SUV

Sport utility vehicles combine sedan-like passenger comfort with the higher seating position and cargo flexibility of a wagon. SUVs range from compact (e.g., Toyota RAV4) to full-size (e.g., Chevrolet Tahoe). The popularity of SUVs has surged in the 2020s, and many brands now offer only SUVs and crossovers.

Coupe

A two-door vehicle with a fixed roof and typically a sloping rear window. Coupes prioritize style and performance over practicality, often with reduced rear-seat and cargo space. Examples: Ford Mustang, BMW 4 Series, Porsche 911.

Hatchback

A two-box design with a rear door that opens upward to reveal a combined cargo and passenger area. Hatchbacks are efficient, agile, and practical for city driving. Examples: Honda Civic Hatchback, Volkswagen Golf, Toyota Corolla Hatchback.

Pickup Truck

A body-on-frame vehicle with an open cargo bed at the rear. Pickup trucks range from compact (Toyota Tacoma) to heavy-duty (Ford F-250, Ram 2500). They are built for towing and hauling, and many modern pickups offer luxury interiors that rival premium sedans.

Van

Available in passenger and cargo configurations. Minivans (Chrysler Pacifica, Honda Odyssey) offer sliding doors and family-friendly interiors. Full-size vans (Ford Transit, Mercedes Sprinter) prioritize cargo volume and can be configured for commercial use.