Wikicars - User contributions [en]

Car classification

2009-09-20T22:21:52Z

200.170.113.174:

'''Car classification''' is subjective since many vehicles fall into multiple categories. Not all car types are sold in all countries and names for the same vehicle can differ by region.

== Classification systems ==
The following are commonly used classifications within [[Wikipedia]]. Where applicable, the relevant [[EuroNCAP]] classifications are shown. Please note that the car classifications (A, B, C or D) given in this article are not the same as insurance classifications.
<ref>[http://www.wcsauto.com/salvage/categories/index.html Insurance salvage categories]</ref>{{Automobile classification}}

==Microcar==
[[Image:Smart.car.bristol.750pix.jpg|thumb|200px|Smart]]
{{main|Microcar|Bubble car}}

Straddling the boundary between car and motorbike, these vehicles have engines under 1.0 liter, typically seat only two passengers and sometimes unorthodox in construction. Some microcars are three-wheelers, while the majority have four. Microcars can be associated with post-war [[Europe]], where their appearance led them to be called '''[[Bubble car]]s'''. A contrast to the traditional microcar is the modern [[Smart Fortwo]].

Examples of microcars:
*[[Isetta]]
*[[Messerschmitt microcar]]
*[[Subaru 360]]

==Hatchbacks, sedans and station wagons==
{{main|Hatchback|Sedan|Station wagon}}

===City car===
{{main|City car|Kei car}}

A city car is a small automobile intended for use in [[urban]] areas. Unlike microcars, a city car's greater speed and occupant protection are safer in mixed traffic environments and weather conditions. While city cars can reach [[highway]] speeds, that is not their intended use. In [[Japan]], city cars are called [[kei car]]s. Kei cars have to meet strict size and engine requirements: engines have a maximum displacement of 660 cc and the car's length must be under 3400 mmm.

Examples of kei cars:
*[[Autozam AZ-1]]
*[[Daihatsu Copen]]
*[[Honda Beat]]
*[[Suzuki Cappuccino]]

Examples of city cars:
*[[Fiat Cinquecento]]
*[[Peugeot 107]]

===Supermini / Subcompact car===
[[Image:FordFiestaMkIV_silver.jpg|thumb|200px|Ford Fiesta]]
{{main|Supermini car|Subcompact car}}

This class is known as '''supermini''' in [[Europe]], '''subcompact''' in [[North America]] and '''light car''' in [[Australia]]. These vehicles are the smallest cars sold in the [[North America]]. Superminis have three, four or five doors and are designed to seat four passengers comfortably. Current supermini hatchbacks are approximately 3900 mm long, while sedans and station wagons are around 4200 mm long.

In [[Europe]], the first superminis were the [[Fiat 500]] of [[1957]] and the [[Mini|Austin Mini]] of [[1959]]. Today, superminis are some of the best selling vehicles in [[Europe]].

Examples of superminis / subcompact cars:
*[[Austin Metro]]
*[[Ford Fiesta]]
*[[Suzuki Swift]]
*[[Volkswagen Polo]]

This category is equivalent to the EuroNCAP class 'Superminis'.

===Small family car / Compact car===
{{main|Small family car|Compact car}}

Compact cars refer to the longest hatchbacks and sedans and station wagons with similar size. They are approximately 4250 mm long in case of hatchbacks and 4500 mm in the case of sedans and station wagons. Compact cars have room for five adults and usually have engines between 1.6 and 2.2 liters. These are the most popular vehicles in most developed countries.

Examples of hatchback small family cars / compact cars:
*[[Ford Focus]]
*[[Honda Civic]]
*[[Mitsubishi Lancer]]
*[[Toyota Corolla]]
*[[Volkswagen Golf]]

This category is equivalent to the EuroNCAP class 'Small Family Cars'.

===Large family car / Mid-size car===
{{main|Large family car|Mid-size car}}

Mid-size cars have room for five adults and a large trunk. Engines are more powerful than compact cars and six-cylinder engines are more common than in smaller cars. Car sizes vary from region to region; in Europe, large family cars are rarely over 4700 mm long, while in North America and Australasia they may be well over 4800 mm.

Examples of large family cars / mid-size cars:
*[[Ford Mondeo]]
*[[Honda Accord]]
*[[Nissan Altima]]
*[[Toyota Camry]]
*[[Volkswagen Passat]]

This category is equivalent to the EuroNCAP class 'Large Family Cars'. These are known in Australia as medium cars.

===Full-size car===
[[Image:2000LincolnTownCar.jpg|thumb|Lincoln Town Car]]
{{main|Full-size car}}

These term is used most in [[North America]] and [[Australia]] where it refers to the largest sedans on the market. Full-size cars may be well over 5000 mm long and are the roomiest vehicles.

Examples of full-size cars:
*[[Buick Lucerne]]
*[[Chrysler 300]]
*[[Hyundai Grandeur]]
*[[Toyota Avalon]]

===Compact executive car / Entry-level luxury car===
{{main|Compact executive car}}

These are luxurious equivalents to large family cars and compact cars. Powerful six- and eight-cylinder engines are common, but rear seat room and trunk space are more reduced than in "non-luxury" models since the extra room is needed to accommodate the larger engine.

Examples of compact executive cars / entry-level luxury cars:
*[[Audi A4]]
*[[BMW 3 Series]]
*[[Lexus IS]]

This category is equivalent to the [[EuroNCAP]] class 'Large Family Cars'.

===Executive car / Mid-luxury car===
{{main|Executive car}}

An executive car or mid-luxury car is larger than a compact executive car/entry-level luxury car. They are usually very roomy, powerful and luxurious, making them more expensive than "standard" sedans.

Examples of executive cars / mid-luxury cars:
*[[Alfa Romeo 166]]
*[[Jaguar S-Type]]
*[[Volvo S80]]

This category is equivalent to the EuroNCAP class 'Executive Cars'.

===Full-size luxury car===
{{main|Luxury car|Full-size car}}

A full-size luxury car is typically a four-door sedan. These are the most powerful sedans, with eight and twelve-cylinder engines and have more equipment than smaller models.

Examples of full-size luxury cars:
*[[Audi A8]]
*[[Mercedes-Benz S-Class]]
*[[Rolls Royce Phantom]]

This category is equivalent to the EuroNCAP class 'Executive Cars'.

==Sports cars and grand tourers==
===Hot hatch / sport compact===
[[Image:Vw golf mk1 cabrio.jpg|thumb|200px|VW Golf GTI Cabriolet]]
{{main|Hot hatch|Sport compact}}

A '''hot hatch''' or '''sport compact''' is a high-performance small car, usually a hatchback, based on standard superminis or small family cars with improved performance, [[car handling|handling]] and styling. Hot hatches are very popular in [[Europe]]. In [[North America]], sport compacts are usually sold as sedans or coupés rather than hatchbacks.

Examples of sport compacts:
*[[Acura Integra]]
*[[Nissan Sentra|Nissan Sentra V-spec]]
*[[Subaru Impreza WRX STi]]

Examples of hot hatches:
*[[Honda CRX]]
*[[Peugeot 205|Peugeot 205 GTI]]
*[[SEAT León|SEAT León Cupra R]]
*[[Suzuki Swift|Suzuki Swift GT]]
*[[Volkswagen Golf GTI]]

===Sports sedan / sports saloon===
{{main|Sports sedan}}

These are high performance versions of sedans. Originally homologated for production based motorsports ([[touring car racing|touring cars]]) and like regular sedans, seats four or five people.

Examples of sports sedans / saloons:
*[[Audi RS4]]
*[[BMW M5]]
*[[Lotus Carlton]]
*[[Mazda 6#Mazdaspeed Atenza|Mazdaspeed 6/Mazda 6 MPS]]

===Sports car===
[[image:Honda NSX red.jpg|thumb|250px|right|A Honda NSX]]
{{main|Sports car}}

This small lightweight class combines performance and handling. Often inspired by racing vehicles, this class ranges from sporty vehicles such as the [[Mazda Miata|Mazda Miata/MX-5]] to derivatives of true racing thoroughbreds such as the [[Lotus Elise]].

Examples of sports cars:
*[[Austin-Healey 3000]]
*[[Honda NSX]]
*[[Mazda Miata|Mazda Miata/MX-5]]
*[[Porsche 911]]

===Grand tourer===
[[Image:Jaguar.xk8.car.750pix.jpg|thumb|200px|Jaguar XK8]]
[[Image:Lamborghini Gallardo silver.jpg|thumb|200px|Lamborghini Gallardo]]
{{main|Grand tourer}}

Larger, more powerful and heavier than sports cars, these vehicles typically have a [[FR layout]] and seating for four passengers ([[2 plus 2|2+2]]). These are more expensive than sports cars but not expensive as supercars. Some grand tourers are hand-built.

Examples of grand tourers:
*[[Aston Martin DB9]]
*[[Ferrari 612 Scaglietti]]
*[[Jaguar XK8]]
*[[Maserati Coupé]]

===Supercar===
{{main|Supercar}}

Supercars are ultra-high performance cars, typically very expensive, luxurious and exceptionally fast. Supercars typically contain cutting-edge technology and are usually assembled by hand.

Examples of supercars:
:''See also:'' [[List of supercars]]

*[[Bugatti Veyron]]
*[[Lamborghini Murciélago]]
*[[McLaren F1]]
*[[Porsche 959]]

===Muscle car===
{{main|Muscle car}}

The '''Muscle car''' term was coined in [[United States]]. Classic muscle cars appeared in the mid-[[1960s]] and disappeared because of the [[1973 energy crisis]]. Muscle cars became popular in [[Australia]] during the [[1980s]]. These cars shoe-horned giant engines into mid-sized cars straight from the factory. Handling took a backseat to straight-line acceleration.

Examples of [[United States|American]] muscle cars:
* [[AMC Javelin]]
* [[Dodge Challenger]]
* [[Mercury Cougar]]
* [[Pontiac Firebird]]
* [[Pontiac GTO]]

Examples of Australian muscle cars:
* [[Ford Falcon]]
* [[Holden Monaro]]
* [[Valiant Charger]]

Examples of Japanese muscle cars:
* [[Nissan Skyline]]
* [[Toyota Supra]]
* [[Mazda RX-7]]

==Convertible==
{{main|Cabriolet|Convertible}}

Also called an open saloon, roadster or drop-head coupe, this type of car has a roof (fabric, vinyl, metal or glass) which can be folded away. Convertibles were very popular in hotter places before the advent of automotive [[air-conditioning]]. 2-seat convertible sports cars are commonly named [[roadster]] or [[spyder]].

Examples of convertibles:
*[[Fiat Barchetta]]
*[[Volkswagen Eos]]
*[[Mercedes-Benz SLK]]

==Off-roaders==


===Sport utility vehicle===
{{main|Sport utility vehicle}}

Sport utility vehicles are [[off-road vehicle]]s with a [[body-on-frame]] [[chassis]], [[four-wheel drive]] and true off-road capability. SUVs can be troublesome in [[crash incompatibility|accidents]]. A high center of gravity gives SUVs means SUVs rollover more easily than automobiles.

Examples of 4x4s / SUVs:
*[[Mitsubishi Pajero]]
*[[Land Rover Range Rover]]
*[[Suzuki Samurai]]

This category is equivalent to the EuroNCAP class 'Large Off-Roaders'.

=== Crossover SUV ===
{{main|Crossover SUV}}

Crossover SUVs have a [[monocoque]] construction and lower ground clearance than SUVs. Some of them have [[traction control]] and adjustable suspension to improve off-road capabilities.

Examples of crossover SUVs:
*[[Acura MDX]]
*[[Toyota RAV4]]
*[[Volvo XC90]]

This category is equivalent to the EuroNCAP class 'Small Off-Roaders'.

== Minivans / Multi-purpose vehicles ==
{{main|Minivan}}

Also known as people carriers, this class of cars resemble tall [[station wagon]]s. Larger minivans may have seating for up to eighth passengers.

Being taller than a family car improves visibility for the driver (while reducing visibility for other road users) and may help access for the [[old age|elderly]] or [[disability|disabled]]. They also offer more seats and increased load capacity than hatchbacks or station wagons.

[[Image:Citroen.xsara.bristol.750pix.jpg|thumb|200px|Citroën Xsara Picasso]]
Examples of mini MPVs:
*[[Fiat Idea]]
*[[Hyundai Matrix]]
*[[Renault Modus]]
*[[Suzuki Wagon R]]

Examples of compact MPVs:
*[[Chevrolet HHR]]
*[[Citroën Picasso]]
*[[Mazda5]]

Both categories are equivalent to the EuroNCAP class 'Small MPVs'.

[[Image:GCaravan97.JPG|thumb|200px|Dodge Grand Caravan]]
Examples of large MPVs / minivans:
*[[Dodge Caravan]]
*[[Peugeot 807]]
*[[Ssangyong Rodius]]
*[[Toyota Previa]]

This category is equivalent to the EuroNCAP class 'MPVs'.

==Van==
{{main|Van}}
[[Image:Dodge Ram Van.JPG|right|thumb|250px|Dodge Ram Van]]
In some countries, the term 'van' can refer to a small ''panel van'' based on a passenger car design (often the station wagon / estate model); it also refers to light trucks, which themselves are sometimes based on SUVs or MPVs. (But note that those retaining seats and windows, while being larger and more utilitarian than MPVs, may be called '[[minibus]]es'.) The term is also used in the term 'camper van' — equivalent to a North American [[recreational vehicle]].

In the [[United States]], the term 'van' refers to vehicles that, like European minibuses, are even larger than large MPVs and are rarely seen being driven for domestic purposes — except for 'conversion vans'. These possess extremely large interior space and are often more intended for hauling cargo than people. Most vans use body-on-frame construction and are thus suitable for extensive modification and coachwork, known as conversion. Conversion vans are often quite luxurious, boasting comfortable seats, soft rides, built-in support for electronics such as television sets, and other amenities. The more elaborate conversion vans straddle the line between cars and recreational vehicles.

Examples of North American 'vans':
*[[Dodge Ram Van]]
*[[Ford E-Series#1992-Present|Ford E-Series]]
*[[GMC Savana]]

Examples of European 'vans':
*[[Ford Transit]]
*[[Mercedes-Benz Sprinter]]
*[[Renault Trafic]]

==See also==
*[[Automobile]]
*[[Car safety]] and [[road safety]]
*[[Car body style]]
*[[List of recent automobile models by type]]

==References==
<references/>

== External links ==
*[http://www.euroncap.com/content/safety_ratings/introduction.php EuroNCAP classifications]

[[Category:Car classifications| ]]

Car classification

2009-09-20T22:17:22Z

200.170.113.174:

'''Car classification''' is subjective since many vehicles fall into multiple categories. Not all car types are sold in all countries and names for the same vehicle can differ by region. The following are commonly used classifications within [[Wikipedia]]. Where applicable, the relevant [[EuroNCAP]] classifications are shown. Please note that the car classifications (A, B, C or D) given in this article are not the same as insurance classifications.
<ref>[http://www.wcsauto.com/salvage/categories/index.html Insurance salvage categories]</ref>
{{Automobile classification}}

==Microcar==
[[Image:Smart.car.bristol.750pix.jpg|thumb|200px|Smart]]
{{main|Microcar|Bubble car}}

Straddling the boundary between car and motorbike, these vehicles have engines under 1.0 liter, typically seat only two passengers and sometimes unorthodox in construction. Some microcars are three-wheelers, while the majority have four. Microcars can be associated with post-war [[Europe]], where their appearance led them to be called '''[[Bubble car]]s'''. A contrast to the traditional microcar is the modern [[Smart Fortwo]].

Examples of microcars:
*[[Isetta]]
*[[Messerschmitt microcar]]
*[[Subaru 360]]

==Hatchbacks, sedans and station wagons==
{{main|Hatchback|Sedan|Station wagon}}

===City car===
{{main|City car|Kei car}}

A city car is a small automobile intended for use in [[urban]] areas. Unlike microcars, a city car's greater speed and occupant protection are safer in mixed traffic environments and weather conditions. While city cars can reach [[highway]] speeds, that is not their intended use. In [[Japan]], city cars are called [[kei car]]s. Kei cars have to meet strict size and engine requirements: engines have a maximum displacement of 660 cc and the car's length must be under 3400 mmm.

Examples of kei cars:
*[[Autozam AZ-1]]
*[[Daihatsu Copen]]
*[[Honda Beat]]
*[[Suzuki Cappuccino]]

Examples of city cars:
*[[Fiat Cinquecento]]
*[[Peugeot 107]]

===Supermini / Subcompact car===
[[Image:FordFiestaMkIV_silver.jpg|thumb|200px|Ford Fiesta]]
{{main|Supermini car|Subcompact car}}

This class is known as '''supermini''' in [[Europe]], '''subcompact''' in [[North America]] and '''light car''' in [[Australia]]. These vehicles are the smallest cars sold in the [[North America]]. Superminis have three, four or five doors and are designed to seat four passengers comfortably. Current supermini hatchbacks are approximately 3900 mm long, while sedans and station wagons are around 4200 mm long.

In [[Europe]], the first superminis were the [[Fiat 500]] of [[1957]] and the [[Mini|Austin Mini]] of [[1959]]. Today, superminis are some of the best selling vehicles in [[Europe]].

Examples of superminis / subcompact cars:
*[[Austin Metro]]
*[[Ford Fiesta]]
*[[Suzuki Swift]]
*[[Volkswagen Polo]]

This category is equivalent to the EuroNCAP class 'Superminis'.

===Small family car / Compact car===
{{main|Small family car|Compact car}}

Compact cars refer to the longest hatchbacks and sedans and station wagons with similar size. They are approximately 4250 mm long in case of hatchbacks and 4500 mm in the case of sedans and station wagons. Compact cars have room for five adults and usually have engines between 1.6 and 2.2 liters. These are the most popular vehicles in most developed countries.

Examples of hatchback small family cars / compact cars:
*[[Ford Focus]]
*[[Honda Civic]]
*[[Mitsubishi Lancer]]
*[[Toyota Corolla]]
*[[Volkswagen Golf]]

This category is equivalent to the EuroNCAP class 'Small Family Cars'.

===Large family car / Mid-size car===
{{main|Large family car|Mid-size car}}

Mid-size cars have room for five adults and a large trunk. Engines are more powerful than compact cars and six-cylinder engines are more common than in smaller cars. Car sizes vary from region to region; in Europe, large family cars are rarely over 4700 mm long, while in North America and Australasia they may be well over 4800 mm.

Examples of large family cars / mid-size cars:
*[[Ford Mondeo]]
*[[Honda Accord]]
*[[Nissan Altima]]
*[[Toyota Camry]]
*[[Volkswagen Passat]]

This category is equivalent to the EuroNCAP class 'Large Family Cars'. These are known in Australia as medium cars.

===Full-size car===
[[Image:2000LincolnTownCar.jpg|thumb|Lincoln Town Car]]
{{main|Full-size car}}

These term is used most in [[North America]] and [[Australia]] where it refers to the largest sedans on the market. Full-size cars may be well over 5000 mm long and are the roomiest vehicles.

Examples of full-size cars:
*[[Buick Lucerne]]
*[[Chrysler 300]]
*[[Hyundai Grandeur]]
*[[Toyota Avalon]]

===Compact executive car / Entry-level luxury car===
{{main|Compact executive car}}

These are luxurious equivalents to large family cars and compact cars. Powerful six- and eight-cylinder engines are common, but rear seat room and trunk space are more reduced than in "non-luxury" models since the extra room is needed to accommodate the larger engine.

Examples of compact executive cars / entry-level luxury cars:
*[[Audi A4]]
*[[BMW 3 Series]]
*[[Lexus IS]]

This category is equivalent to the [[EuroNCAP]] class 'Large Family Cars'.

===Executive car / Mid-luxury car===
{{main|Executive car}}

An executive car or mid-luxury car is larger than a compact executive car/entry-level luxury car. They are usually very roomy, powerful and luxurious, making them more expensive than "standard" sedans.

Examples of executive cars / mid-luxury cars:
*[[Alfa Romeo 166]]
*[[Jaguar S-Type]]
*[[Volvo S80]]

This category is equivalent to the EuroNCAP class 'Executive Cars'.

===Full-size luxury car===
{{main|Luxury car|Full-size car}}

A full-size luxury car is typically a four-door sedan. These are the most powerful sedans, with eight and twelve-cylinder engines and have more equipment than smaller models.

Examples of full-size luxury cars:
*[[Audi A8]]
*[[Mercedes-Benz S-Class]]
*[[Rolls Royce Phantom]]

This category is equivalent to the EuroNCAP class 'Executive Cars'.

==Sports cars and grand tourers==
===Hot hatch / sport compact===
[[Image:Vw golf mk1 cabrio.jpg|thumb|200px|VW Golf GTI Cabriolet]]
{{main|Hot hatch|Sport compact}}

A '''hot hatch''' or '''sport compact''' is a high-performance small car, usually a hatchback, based on standard superminis or small family cars with improved performance, [[car handling|handling]] and styling. Hot hatches are very popular in [[Europe]]. In [[North America]], sport compacts are usually sold as sedans or coupés rather than hatchbacks.

Examples of sport compacts:
*[[Acura Integra]]
*[[Nissan Sentra|Nissan Sentra V-spec]]
*[[Subaru Impreza WRX STi]]

Examples of hot hatches:
*[[Honda CRX]]
*[[Peugeot 205|Peugeot 205 GTI]]
*[[SEAT León|SEAT León Cupra R]]
*[[Suzuki Swift|Suzuki Swift GT]]
*[[Volkswagen Golf GTI]]

===Sports sedan / sports saloon===
{{main|Sports sedan}}

These are high performance versions of sedans. Originally homologated for production based motorsports ([[touring car racing|touring cars]]) and like regular sedans, seats four or five people.

Examples of sports sedans / saloons:
*[[Audi RS4]]
*[[BMW M5]]
*[[Lotus Carlton]]
*[[Mazda 6#Mazdaspeed Atenza|Mazdaspeed 6/Mazda 6 MPS]]

===Sports car===
[[image:Honda NSX red.jpg|thumb|250px|right|A Honda NSX]]
{{main|Sports car}}

This small lightweight class combines performance and handling. Often inspired by racing vehicles, this class ranges from sporty vehicles such as the [[Mazda Miata|Mazda Miata/MX-5]] to derivatives of true racing thoroughbreds such as the [[Lotus Elise]].

Examples of sports cars:
*[[Austin-Healey 3000]]
*[[Honda NSX]]
*[[Mazda Miata|Mazda Miata/MX-5]]
*[[Porsche 911]]

===Grand tourer===
[[Image:Jaguar.xk8.car.750pix.jpg|thumb|200px|Jaguar XK8]]
[[Image:Lamborghini Gallardo silver.jpg|thumb|200px|Lamborghini Gallardo]]
{{main|Grand tourer}}

Larger, more powerful and heavier than sports cars, these vehicles typically have a [[FR layout]] and seating for four passengers ([[2 plus 2|2+2]]). These are more expensive than sports cars but not expensive as supercars. Some grand tourers are hand-built.

Examples of grand tourers:
*[[Aston Martin DB9]]
*[[Ferrari 612 Scaglietti]]
*[[Jaguar XK8]]
*[[Maserati Coupé]]

===Supercar===
{{main|Supercar}}

Supercars are ultra-high performance cars, typically very expensive, luxurious and exceptionally fast. Supercars typically contain cutting-edge technology and are usually assembled by hand.

Examples of supercars:
:''See also:'' [[List of supercars]]

*[[Bugatti Veyron]]
*[[Lamborghini Murciélago]]
*[[McLaren F1]]
*[[Porsche 959]]

===Muscle car===
{{main|Muscle car}}

The '''Muscle car''' term was coined in [[United States]]. Classic muscle cars appeared in the mid-[[1960s]] and disappeared because of the [[1973 energy crisis]]. Muscle cars became popular in [[Australia]] during the [[1980s]]. These cars shoe-horned giant engines into mid-sized cars straight from the factory. Handling took a backseat to straight-line acceleration.

Examples of [[United States|American]] muscle cars:
* [[AMC Javelin]]
* [[Dodge Challenger]]
* [[Mercury Cougar]]
* [[Pontiac Firebird]]
* [[Pontiac GTO]]

Examples of Australian muscle cars:
* [[Ford Falcon]]
* [[Holden Monaro]]
* [[Valiant Charger]]

Examples of Japanese muscle cars:
* [[Nissan Skyline]]
* [[Toyota Supra]]
* [[Mazda RX-7]]

==Convertible==
{{main|Cabriolet|Convertible}}

Also called an open saloon, roadster or drop-head coupe, this type of car has a roof (fabric, vinyl, metal or glass) which can be folded away. Convertibles were very popular in hotter places before the advent of automotive [[air-conditioning]]. 2-seat convertible sports cars are commonly named [[roadster]] or [[spyder]].

Examples of convertibles:
*[[Fiat Barchetta]]
*[[Volkswagen Eos]]
*[[Mercedes-Benz SLK]]

==Off-roaders==


===Sport utility vehicle===
{{main|Sport utility vehicle}}

Sport utility vehicles are [[off-road vehicle]]s with a [[body-on-frame]] [[chassis]], [[four-wheel drive]] and true off-road capability. SUVs can be troublesome in [[crash incompatibility|accidents]]. A high center of gravity gives SUVs means SUVs rollover more easily than automobiles.

Examples of 4x4s / SUVs:
*[[Mitsubishi Pajero]]
*[[Land Rover Range Rover]]
*[[Suzuki Samurai]]

This category is equivalent to the EuroNCAP class 'Large Off-Roaders'.

=== Crossover SUV ===
{{main|Crossover SUV}}

Crossover SUVs have a [[monocoque]] construction and lower ground clearance than SUVs. Some of them have [[traction control]] and adjustable suspension to improve off-road capabilities.

Examples of crossover SUVs:
*[[Acura MDX]]
*[[Toyota RAV4]]
*[[Volvo XC90]]

This category is equivalent to the EuroNCAP class 'Small Off-Roaders'.

== Minivans / Multi-purpose vehicles ==
{{main|Minivan}}

Also known as people carriers, this class of cars resemble tall [[station wagon]]s. Larger minivans may have seating for up to eighth passengers.

Being taller than a family car improves visibility for the driver (while reducing visibility for other road users) and may help access for the [[old age|elderly]] or [[disability|disabled]]. They also offer more seats and increased load capacity than hatchbacks or station wagons.

[[Image:Citroen.xsara.bristol.750pix.jpg|thumb|200px|Citroën Xsara Picasso]]
Examples of mini MPVs:
*[[Fiat Idea]]
*[[Hyundai Matrix]]
*[[Renault Modus]]
*[[Suzuki Wagon R]]

Examples of compact MPVs:
*[[Chevrolet HHR]]
*[[Citroën Picasso]]
*[[Mazda5]]

Both categories are equivalent to the EuroNCAP class 'Small MPVs'.

[[Image:GCaravan97.JPG|thumb|200px|Dodge Grand Caravan]]
Examples of large MPVs / minivans:
*[[Dodge Caravan]]
*[[Peugeot 807]]
*[[Ssangyong Rodius]]
*[[Toyota Previa]]

This category is equivalent to the EuroNCAP class 'MPVs'.

==Van==
{{main|Van}}
[[Image:Dodge Ram Van.JPG|right|thumb|250px|Dodge Ram Van]]
In some countries, the term 'van' can refer to a small ''panel van'' based on a passenger car design (often the station wagon / estate model); it also refers to light trucks, which themselves are sometimes based on SUVs or MPVs. (But note that those retaining seats and windows, while being larger and more utilitarian than MPVs, may be called '[[minibus]]es'.) The term is also used in the term 'camper van' — equivalent to a North American [[recreational vehicle]].

In the [[United States]], the term 'van' refers to vehicles that, like European minibuses, are even larger than large MPVs and are rarely seen being driven for domestic purposes — except for 'conversion vans'. These possess extremely large interior space and are often more intended for hauling cargo than people. Most vans use body-on-frame construction and are thus suitable for extensive modification and coachwork, known as conversion. Conversion vans are often quite luxurious, boasting comfortable seats, soft rides, built-in support for electronics such as television sets, and other amenities. The more elaborate conversion vans straddle the line between cars and recreational vehicles.

Examples of North American 'vans':
*[[Dodge Ram Van]]
*[[Ford E-Series#1992-Present|Ford E-Series]]
*[[GMC Savana]]

Examples of European 'vans':
*[[Ford Transit]]
*[[Mercedes-Benz Sprinter]]
*[[Renault Trafic]]

==See also==
*[[Automobile]]
*[[Car safety]] and [[road safety]]
*[[Car body style]]
*[[List of recent automobile models by type]]

==References==
<references/>

== External links ==
*[http://www.euroncap.com/content/safety_ratings/introduction.php EuroNCAP classifications]

[[Category:Car classifications| ]]