Types of Cars in India: Car Body Types Explained

If you think cars are just for getting from point A to point B, it is time to change your perspective. Picking the right car is a technical choice. But, it is also about finding the perfect match for your lifestyle, budget, and the unique roads you will travel through. 

Ultimatum is we got you covered. This guide walks you through the types of cars in India. This includes buying tips, key insights, and details on what makes each body type a smart choice for different needs. 

Fun Fact: Many car body types have roots in old horse-drawn carriage designs! Back then, shape and build determined function, much like today’s cars.

Why do Car Body Types Even Matter?

Indian driving conditions are unique. It is a mix of narrow city streets, busy highways and high traffic. Imagine navigating crowded city streets in a full-sized SUV or driving a low-ground-clearance sedan on rural roads. Not ideal, right? Having the right car type makes a lot of difference.

This guide will help you navigate the types of cars in India with tips on which body types fit different driving needs, climates, and budgets. Let’s dive in!

1. Sedan/Compact Sedan – The Classic Comfort Machine

When you think of a car, you are imagining a Sedan. This iconic car body type has a sleek three-box layout. It is known for comfort, legroom, and a smooth ride.

• Why Sedans Work in India

Sedans offer comfort with great handling. They provide ample space with relatively high fuel efficiency.

• Types of Sedans

• • • Compact Sedans (under 4 metres in length): Fit India’s tax bracket and offer sedan benefits in an affordable package.
    • Mid-Size and Full-Size Sedans: Larger bodies mean more space, but higher costs.

• Popular Models in India

• • • Compact Sedans: Maruti Suzuki Dzire, Honda Amaze, Hyundai Aura
    • Mid-Size/Full-Size Sedans: Hyundai Verna, Skoda Slavia, Honda City, Volkswagen Virtus

• Buying Tips

• • • Best for: Daily city driving, long highway trips, and families needing a balance of comfort and space.
    • Considerations: Look for ground clearance of at least 165mm.
    • Recommended for: People who prioritize comfort and fuel efficiency.

Pros: Smooth ride, fuel-efficient, spacious interiors
Cons: Low ground clearance, not ideal for unpaved or rural roads

2. SUV/Compact SUV – The Adventurer’s Best Friend

SUVs (Sports Utility Vehicles) are the best choice for adventure and power. These are built with high ground clearance and a tall frame for rough tracks. Modern SUVs now come with luxury features for added comfort.

• Why SUVs Fit India’s Landscape

India has it all, from smooth highways to bumpy imperfect roads. SUVs are perfect for tackling these with their strong build.

• Types of SUVs

• • • Compact SUVs (sub-4 meter SUVs): Offer SUV benefits without the huge size, making them city-friendly.
    • Full-Size SUVs: More powerful and bigger with advanced off-road capabilities.

• Popular Models in India

• • • Full-Size SUVs: Toyota Fortuner, Mahindra Scorpio N, Tata Safari
    • Compact SUVs: Kia Seltos, Tata Nexon, Hyundai Creta, Maruti Suzuki Brezza

• Buying Tips

• • • Best for: Family trips, rural roads, and adventure seekers.
    • Considerations: Prioritize ground clearance of 180mm or more for rugged use. Diesel variants often provide better mileage for large SUVs.
    • Recommended for: Families or individuals who love weekend getaways/adventure.

Pros: High ground clearance, spacious interiors, suitable for varied terrains
Cons: Higher fuel consumption. Larger footprint makes city parking challenging

3. Hatchback – The City Commuter’s Dream

Hatchbacks are the declared kings of cities with their compact and budget-friendly setting. Hatchbacks are known for their rear hatch doors, which give quick access to a small but functional cargo space.

• Why Hatchbacks are India’s Urban Heroes

Hatchbacks fit tight spaces easily. They are affordable and highly fuel-efficient. The easy availability of accessories and sports designs make them good.

• Popular Models in India

• • • Best-Sellers: Maruti Suzuki Swift, Tata Tiago, Hyundai i20, Maruti Suzuki Baleno

• Buying Tips

• • • Best for: Daily commuting, city driving, small families or solo drivers.
    • Considerations: Check engine options (usually 1.0L-1.5L) for power and fuel efficiency.
    • Recommended for: Urban dwellers and first-time car buyers

Pros: Easy to move, budget-friendly, great fuel economy
Cons: Limited cargo space, less suitable for long-distance travel

4. Crossovers – The Versatile All-Rounder

Crossovers lie somewhere between hatchbacks and SUVs. They offer higher ground clearance and muscular design while remaining compact for urban use. Crossovers take cosmetic hints from SUVs and come with features like raised seats and added cargo space..

• Why Crossovers are on the Rise in India

Crossovers cater to India’s growing middle class by offering the practicality of a hatchback with SUV functionality. They are multi-purpose, look good and are suitable for light off-road driving.

Popular Models in India

• • • Best-Sellers: Maruti Suzuki S-Cross, Renault Kiger, Tata Punch, Hyundai Exter

• Buying Tips

• • • Best for: City driving with occasional countryside trips.
    • Considerations: Prioritise ground clearance and fuel economy. Avoid crossovers if hardcore off-roading is your priority.
    • Recommended for: People wanting SUV features without the bulk or high price tag.

Pros: Good ground clearance, versatile, stylish
Cons: Limited off-road capability, usually smaller than true SUVs

5. MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle) – The Family Favorite

MPV is the perfect choice for big families or group travellers. These vehicles carry spacious interiors and multiple seating configurations.

• Why MPVs Make Sense in India

With extended families and frequent road trips, MPVs offer the comfort and space needed to accommodate multiple passengers and luggage. They are also popular fleet cars and called “people carriers,”.

• Popular Models in India

• • • Best-Sellers: Toyota Innova Crysta, Maruti Suzuki Ertiga, Kia Carens, Renault Triber

• Buying Tips

• • • Best for: Large families, fleet operators, and road trips.
    • Considerations: Go for models with flexible seating arrangements. Diesel engines often offer better mileage for long-distance trips.
    • Recommended for: Large families or those needing maximum seating and luggage space.

Pros: Spacious, comfortable for long drives, economical for large families
Cons: Lower fuel efficiency, larger size is hard to park in tight areas

6. Station Wagon – The Cargo Champion

Station wagons are a hybrid of sedan comfort and SUV’s cargo space. They are perfect for extra storage without getting an SUV.

• Why Station Wagons are Rare Yet Relevant in India

While not popular in India, station wagons offer great utility. Especially during long drives where additional luggage space is a must. They offer a stable ride with a low centre of gravity.

• Popular Models in India

• • • Premium Options: Volvo V90 Cross Country, Mercedes-Benz E-Class All-Terrain

• Buying Tips

• • • Best for: Families who need more cargo space but don’t want an SUV.
    • Considerations: Opt for models with enhanced suspension for smooth handling on highways.
    • Recommended for: Long-distance commuters or those with large cargo needs but prefer sedan-style handling.

Pros: Ample cargo space, comfortable ride
Cons: Limited availability, relatively high cost

7. Coupe – For the Style-Conscious Driver

Coupes are two-door sporty cars. These focus on performance and look over practicality. Identifying features include low-roof designs and long hoods.

• Why Coupes Have a Niche Market in India

Coupes are not the most practical for Indian roads. These are a favourite among car enthusiasts and collectors because of their powerful engines and sporty appeal.

• Popular Models in India

• • • Sports Cars: Ford Mustang, Porsche 911, BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe, Audi A5 Sportback

• Buying Tips

• • • Best for: Car enthusiasts, city drivers, and those who prioritise style.
    • Considerations: Look at engine capacity (usually 2.0L and above) and safety features for high-speed driving.
    • Recommended for: Enthusiasts who value performance over practicality.

Pros: Stylish, exhilarating performance
Cons: Limited seating, not practical for long commutes

• Choose the Right Car Type for Your Lifestyle

Picking a car is more than focusing on looks. It is the best if It fits your daily routine, family needs, and budget. Consider factors like fuel efficiency, and maintenance costs. 

This guide will give you enough information to find the perfect car body type. Remember there’s a car body type for every need and lifestyle.

• Final Tips

• • • Take a Test Drive: Always test-drive different types to feel which one suits your style.
    • Budget Wisely: Consider all costs, including maintenance, fuel, and insurance.
    • Future Needs: Think about how your car will fit future changes, like a growing family or a longer commute.

FAQs About Car Body Types in India

Q: Which car type is best for city traffic?
A: Hatchbacks and compact SUVs because of their compact size.

Q: What’s the best car for long-distance road trips?
A: Sedans, SUVs, and MPVs are ideal for long trips with extra comfort and space.

Q: Which car is best for rough terrains?
A: SUVs (Mahindra Scorpio, Thar and Toyota Fortuner) handle rough terrains easily with their high ground clearance.