Complete Guide on 20 Main Types of Cars: Names & Diagram

An automobile, commonly known as a car, is a motor vehicle with wheels that is mainly built for road use. Most cars are designed to carry between one and eight passengers, have four wheels, and are intended for personal transportation rather than hauling goods. There are around 20 main types of cars, including sedans, hatchbacks, SUVs, coupes, convertibles, and pickup trucks. Each type has its own design, purpose, and benefits, which makes it easier for buyers to choose a vehicle that fits their lifestyle and needs. Understanding these categories also helps in comparing their value and performance.

Cars are often classified by their body style, which refers to the overall look and shape of the vehicle. Body style gives quick visual cues about a car—such as whether it’s tall and boxy like an SUV, sleek and low like a sports car, or compact with easy maneuverability like a hatchback. While this classification system is helpful, it’s important to note that some models blur the lines between categories, which can sometimes cause confusion.

Car Types Pictures

Types of Car Names

Sedan
Coupe
Sportscars
Station wagon
Hatchback
Convertible
Sport-utility vehicle (SUV)

Minivan
Pickup truck
Jeep
Electric car
CUV/Crossover
Spyder
Hot hatch

Limousine
UTE
Pony car
Sports sedan
Military vehicle
Dragster

Types of Cars

Various types of cars are available, each distinguished by its unique body style, shape, functions, and ergonomics. There are around 20 different types of cars, each offering features and characteristics. Let’s explore these car categories in detail.

Sedan

A sedan is one of the most common types of passenger cars, known for its four doors and traditional design. It follows a three-box layout, which separates the engine area, passenger cabin, and trunk. This design not only improves balance and ride stability but also makes sedans practical for everyday use.

Most modern sedans are built with a unibody structure, which reduces overall weight and helps increase fuel efficiency.

The enclosed trunk, without rear glass windows, adds an extra layer of security for luggage and personal items, making it safer than cars with open cargo spaces.

Sedans are available in different sizes and categories. For example, subcompact sedans include models like the Nissan Versa and Kia Rio, while compact sedans feature popular options such as the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla. Larger sedans also exist, offering more space, comfort, and advanced features for families or long-distance travel.

Coupe

A coupe is a car style that instantly makes people think of sleek, compact, and sporty vehicles. Traditionally, a coupe is defined as a two-door car with a fixed roof and a separate trunk.

One of its most recognizable design elements is the sloping roofline, which gives it a stylish and athletic look compared to other car types.

Coupes are often associated with performance. They usually feature precise handling, powerful engines, and a driver-focused design, making them a popular choice for those who enjoy both speed and style.

Classic examples include two-seater sports cars like the Chevrolet Corvette and Porsche Boxster, as well as performance-oriented models like the Ford Mustang and Audi A5.

Over time, the definition of a coupe has expanded. Many automakers now apply the term to four-door vehicles with sleek, low rooflines, blending practicality with coupe-like styling. Cars such as the Mercedes-Benz CLS sedan and the BMW X6 SUV are modern examples of this broader interpretation.

Sportscars

A sports car is defined by its focus on dynamic performance—delivering sharp handling, rapid acceleration, high top speed, and the sheer excitement of driving.

Most sports cars are compact, stylish, and built with performance in mind rather than practicality. They usually feature two seats, minimal cargo space, and a sleek aerodynamic design. Many models also come as convertibles, giving drivers the thrill of open-air driving.

While sports cars emphasize power and handling, they are also admired for their blend of luxury, precision engineering, and innovative design.

Modern sports cars go beyond speed, offering advanced technology, driver-assist systems, and enhanced comfort, making every ride both exhilarating and refined.

Classic examples include the Porsche 911 and Mazda Miata, known for their balanced performance and driving fun. On the other hand, cars like the Ford Mustang and Dodge Challenger bring muscle-car heritage into the sports car category, combining raw power with bold styling.

At the top tier, sports cars transform into exotic supercars—machines that are as much about artistry as engineering.

Models like the Ferrari 488 GTB and Aston Martin Vantage stand out with futuristic designs, exceptional speed, and exclusivity that makes them true head-turners.

Station Wagon

Station wagons, often called estate cars, are vehicles with an extended sedan-style body that provides generous cargo space.

They combine the practicality of a hatchback with the comfort of a sedan, making them a versatile choice for families and travelers who need both seating and storage capacity.

Unlike bulkier SUVs, wagons are known for their better fuel efficiency and smoother handling, while still offering impressive interior room.

Some modern models, such as the Subaru Outback or Audi A4 Allroad, are designed with higher ground clearance and rugged styling, giving them SUV-like appeal while retaining the drivability of a sedan.

Despite these advantages, station wagons have gradually declined in popularity in the United States over the last few decades. Today, only a limited number of models are available, but they remain an excellent option for drivers looking for a reliable, spacious, and fuel-efficient alternative to SUVs.

Hatchback

The hatchback’s rear door, which elegantly swings upwards, stands out as its most striking feature. Unlike most automobile models, this one is equipped with two or four doors, with the rear one being the hatch. Both sedans and hatchbacks fall under the category of passenger automobiles, sharing remarkable similarities.

However, it is in their payload capacity that they differ significantly. Comparing hatchbacks to sedans, the former offers a more spacious cargo area, allowing for the transport of larger loads.

Moreover, the convenience of effortlessly removing heavy components, such as substantial shopping bags, further adds to the appeal of hatchbacks. A hatchback is suitable if you prioritize greater fuel efficiency and ample load space.

Among the standout hatchback vehicles, the Kia Rio and the Volkswagen Golf are prominent examples. It is worth noting that hatchbacks have recently been integrated into larger vehicles, like the Audi A7 and the Kia Stinger.

Despite their sedan-like appearance, they possess a steeply slanted tailgate, ensuring more straightforward access to the cargo area and an increased load capacity compared to the typical trunk.

Convertible

Convertibles have long been admired for their stylish design, fine craftsmanship, and the sense of freedom they bring to driving. For decades, they have been associated with youth, adventure, and popular culture, making them some of the most iconic cars on the road.

A convertible is a type of car with a roof that can be removed or folded back, allowing the passenger cabin to open up to the outdoors.

Most modern convertibles use an electrically powered soft-top made of cloth that neatly folds down with the push of a button. Some models still feature a manually operated roof, though these are less common today.

Typically, convertibles are compact two-seater cars with smaller interiors and a lighter build, designed to enhance the thrill of driving with the wind in your hair. However, some larger four-seater convertibles are also available, offering more versatility for families or groups.

Apart from traditional soft-top and hardtop convertibles, there are also unique designs called Targa tops—a semi-convertible style where only a section of the roof can be removed or retracted.

Popular examples include the Mazda MX-5 Miata RF, Porsche 911 Targa, and Chevrolet Corvette, each showcasing a blend of sporty performance and distinctive design.

Whether fully open or partially retractable, convertibles remain a symbol of driving pleasure and individuality, making them timeless favorites among car enthusiasts.

Sport-Utility Vehicle (SUV)

Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs) are popular for their spacious interiors, strong road presence, and ability to handle both city driving and off-road adventures. Built for long trips, SUVs provide comfort and stability even on rough or uneven terrains. Their higher seating position gives drivers a better view of the road, adding to both confidence and safety.

Many SUVs are designed with a truck-inspired body-on-frame structure, which makes them durable and reliable for heavy-duty use, including towing bikes, trailers, or camping gear.

Like station wagons, they feature a rear hatchback door for easy access to the cargo area. Most modern SUVs also come with all-wheel or four-wheel drive, ensuring better grip in rain, snow, or off-road conditions.

Depending on size, SUVs can range from compact models to full-size family vehicles. Larger versions, such as the Ford Expedition and Chevrolet Tahoe, often provide three rows of seating for big families or group travel.

On the other hand, compact SUVs like the Hyundai Kona and Nissan Kicks are ideal for city use, offering great fuel efficiency without compromising versatility.

Luxury brands also offer premium SUVs across different size categories, combining off-road capability with advanced technology and comfort.

Minivan

Minivans are built with a strong focus on passenger comfort and interior space rather than just storage capacity. Known as the ultimate family vehicles, they were designed to carry entire families with ease, making them a practical alternative to station wagons.

While they don’t compete directly with hatchbacks, minivans provide far more room for both passengers and luggage.

Despite the word “mini” in their name, minivans are anything but small. These tall, box-shaped vehicles are engineered to maximize cabin space and practicality.

Features like wide sliding side doors make entry and exit easier for children and adults alike, while the large rear liftgate opens to reveal a generous cargo area – one of their biggest advantages.

Inside, most models come with spacious second- and third-row seating. These rows often recline for comfort and can fold flat or tuck into the floor, creating an impressive amount of cargo space when needed.

Popular examples include the Chrysler Pacifica and Honda Odyssey, both of which highlight how minivans combine family-friendly design with versatile storage solutions.

Pickup Truck

The pickup truck is distinguished from other vehicles owing to its distinctive style and is one of the most well-known car types in the world. The cargo bed is entirely distinct from the cabin, which typically has three or four sleeping spaces.

A pickup truck’s open cargo bed and passenger cab are in the back. Most pickup trucks have all-wheel drive or part-time four-wheel drive, which is only used for off-road travel. Except for one model, the mid-sized Honda Ridgeline varies somewhat because its cab is mounted to a separate steel frame.

The Ridgeline’s cargo bed can be seen when the back roof is removed, giving it a more crossover-like appearance. Currently, pickup trucks come in two sizes: full-size and midsize. It stands apart in the automobile industry because of its distinctiveness and adaptability.

Jeep – Types of Cars

Kleenex and Jeep are two examples of whole product lines with a flexible product model. Jeep, a great Fiat Chrysler Automobiles design, is a perfect example of this idea. In November 1940, just before the United States entered World War II, it made its premiere.

Jeeps were widely used in that fight and have since played a vital part in other conflicts. Chrysler purchased the prestigious Jeep brand in 1987 and added more models to its lineup. Despite this growth, the iconic Jeep design is still quite popular. In addition, Chrysler unveiled the Cherokee SUV, a cutting-edge and contemporary addition to the Jeep lineup.

Electric Car

I am thrilled about leasing an electric vehicle as my future car. It is exciting as numerous automakers plan to introduce several electric car alternatives in the coming years. Mercedes, BMW, Porsche, Audi, and Porsche are all set to launch an impressive electric vehicle lineup.

While Tesla currently holds the market leader position, it is expected to face more challenging and intense competition in the next five years. Another excellent option is GM’s Volt.

Despite my appreciation for Tesla’s aesthetics, they can’t compare to the sheer magnificence of the original electric Porsche automobile, the Mission E. I am enamored with how Mission E combines four doors while still looking fabulous. It is a highly unique design that sets it apart from the rest.

CUV/Crossover – Types of Cars

A convergence of an SUV and a hatchback aptly characterizes crossovers. Their unibody design reduces weight and maximizes fuel efficiency, like hatchbacks, while providing the SUV’s versatility. This results in a remarkably distinctive and unparalleled vehicle category.

Spyder

The Spyder is a unique type of automobile distinguished by its two seats and sports car design. Among its various modifications, the famed Lamborghini Spyder distinguishes it as a high-end car.

The Spyder became well-known as a racing car in the United States Auto Club championships in the 1950s and 1960s. The Spyder, sometimes the Roadster, was initially intended as a powerful vehicle for open highways.

Interestingly, the Spyder was initially intended for just one rider. However, it gradually changed, eventually becoming the recognizable two-seater shape that distinguishes it today.

Hot Hatch – Types of Cars

Drawing inspiration from the compact hatchback, the exhilarating “Hot Hatch” emerges as a cutting-edge, high-performance automobile. This fantastic vehicle provides space for up to five people with a great load capacity. It boasts comparable design aspects, including the inventive rear-swing door.

Although slightly more modest in space when compared to its hatchback counterpart, the Hot Hatch remains a favored choice among enthusiasts in European and Asian markets. This automotive treasure, which made its manufacturing debut in the late 1980s, continues to enthrall discriminating customers with its unrivaled beauty and dynamic talents.

Limousine

The limousine is one of the globe’s most luxurious vehicles. It is famous for its remarkable length and partition separating the front and back compartments.

Prominent figures such as movie stars, business magnates, dignitaries, and politicians commonly assign a driver with its control during formal gatherings and reserve it well in advance for its utilization.

UTE – Types of Cars

A distinctive and well-liked automobile known as a UTE is frequently bought in Australia and New Zealand. This adaptable vehicle behind the passenger compartment may be driven with a regular driver’s license.

The phrase was first applied to automobiles built on passenger car chassis. It included a bed connected to the passenger body. However, any vehicle with an open cargo compartment in the back is now referred to as a UTE in the New Zealand-Australia region, making it a distinctive feature of its automotive culture.

Pony Car

The pony car movement, which peaked in popularity in the 1960s and even broke astounding sales records in the United States, has its roots in the Ford Mustangs of the 1940s and 1950s. The pony car fad, which was a direct reaction to consumer desire for fashionable, elegant cars, was sparked by this idea, which appeared as a cheap, tiny, and superbly built American alternative.

Sports Sedan – Types of Cars

The term “Sports Sedan” or “Sports Saloon” epitomizes high performance and flawless handling attributes and has its roots dating back to the 1930s, with models such as the Rover 14 and 16 versions.

The term “sports sedan” was first coined in the 1960s to denote high-performance models produced by various automakers. These vintage models featured rear-wheel drive and manual gearboxes as standard equipment. However, over time, multiple gearbox designs and layouts have emerged.

Notable examples in this category include the BMW M5, Jaguar XJR, Maserati Quattroporte, and Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG. These cars display the sports sedan idea with great originality and engineering skills. They stand out in the automobile industry due to their unparalleled strength, precision, and innovation.

Military Vehicle

Military vehicles are carefully made to bear extended periods of warfare, boasting robust armor and formidable protection.

Designed to withstand the impact of explosions and bullets, they can swiftly maneuver while transporting various cargoes, including soldiers, ammunition, and substantial goods. These remarkable vehicles present the pinnacle of durability and functionality in military engineering.

Dragster – Types of Cars

In the 1960s, racecar enthusiasts purposefully modified cars to transform them into dragsters, which featured bespoke engines specifically tailored for drag racing. Initially, they built these dragsters with slingshots and front-engine rails. Dragsters can be equipped with turbochargers or superchargers, depending on their designs.

Their power sources include petrol, nitromethane, alcohol, or natural gas. Owing to their remarkable durability and exceptional performance benefits, rear-engine dragsters have progressively replaced front-engine dragsters as the prevailing design in the world of drag racing.

FAQ’s

What are the main types of cars available in the USA?

Cars are generally categorized into sedans, SUVs, hatchbacks, coupes, convertibles, wagons, minivans, and pickup trucks. Each type serves different needs—from family travel and commuting to off-road driving and cargo hauling.

Which type of car is best for families?

Minivans and SUVs are the most popular choices for families in the USA because they offer spacious interiors, extra seating, strong safety ratings, and better cargo space.

What is the difference between a sedan and an SUV?

Sedans are passenger cars with a lower profile, offering fuel efficiency and smooth handling. SUVs are larger, with higher ground clearance, more seating, and better capability for rough terrain and long trips.

Are hatchbacks still popular in the USA?

Yes, hatchbacks remain popular among city drivers and younger buyers. They are compact, fuel-efficient, and provide flexible cargo space compared to sedans.

Which type of car is best for long road trips?

SUVs and crossovers are ideal for road trips because they combine comfort, space, and performance. Sedans are also good for fuel economy, while minivans work well for large families traveling together.

What are the most fuel-efficient types of cars?

Hybrid cars, plug-in hybrids, and electric vehicles (EVs) are the most fuel-efficient. Among traditional cars, compact sedans and hatchbacks generally offer the best gas mileage.

Which type of car is best for off-road driving?

SUVs with four-wheel drive (4WD) or all-wheel drive (AWD), such as Jeep, Toyota 4Runner, or Ford Bronco, are built for off-road performance, handling rough terrain, mud, and steep inclines.

How do I choose the right type of car for my needs?

Consider your lifestyle:
For daily commuting → sedan or hatchback
For family use → SUV or minivan
For towing or heavy-duty work → pickup truck
For eco-friendly driving → hybrid or electric car
For adventure/off-road → SUV with 4WD/AWD