When you’re comparing new cars, you’ll see words like hatchback, SUV, or saloon used to describe the body type - the overall shape, size, and layout of the car.
Understanding these body types helps you pick the right car for your lifestyle before you lease or buy.
Below is a clear breakdown of the main car body styles in the UK, their key differences, and who they’re best suited for.
Also Read: Lease or Buy a Car
Hatchback Body Type
A hatchback is one of the most common car shapes in the UK. It features a rear door that lifts upwards, creating easy access to the boot - which is part of the main cabin.
Hatchbacks are compact, efficient, and easy to park, making them ideal for city driving and new drivers.
Popular examples: Vauxhall Corsa, Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus.
Best for: Small families, commuters, or anyone wanting a practical, easy-to-run car.
Lease example: Hyundai i10 lease
Saloon Body Type
Saloons (often called sedans) have a distinct three-box design: an engine at the front, a cabin in the middle, and a separate boot at the back.
They’re popular with professionals who value comfort and a premium driving experience.
Popular examples: BMW 3 Series, Audi A4, Mercedes C-Class.
Best for: Drivers who want refinement, boot space, and a smooth motorway drive.
Lease example: BMW 3 Series lease
Estate Body Type
Estate cars extend the roofline beyond the rear seats, giving a large boot and extra practicality.
They’re perfect for families, pets, or anyone needing space for luggage or work equipment.
Popular examples: Skoda Octavia Estate, Volvo V90, Mercedes E-Class Estate.
Best for: Family life, long trips, or active lifestyles with lots of gear.
Lease example: Volvo V90 lease
SUV Body Type
SUV stands for Sports Utility Vehicle. These are higher-riding cars with strong road presence, more interior space, and often optional four-wheel drive.
Modern SUVs blend practicality with comfort, which explains their rising popularity in the UK.
Popular examples: Nissan Qashqai, Kia Sportage, Hyundai Tucson.
Best for: Families who want extra space and a commanding view of the road.
Lease example: Nissan Qashqai lease
Coupe Body Type
Coupes are sporty cars with a sloping roofline and two doors, though some newer versions offer four.
They focus on design and performance over space, often appealing to enthusiasts.
Popular examples: BMW 4 Series, Audi TT, Ford Mustang.
Best for: Drivers who value style and driving enjoyment more than rear-seat room.
Lease example: BMW 4 Series lease
MPV Body Type (Multi-Purpose Vehicle)
MPVs, also known as people carriers, prioritise interior space and flexible seating layouts.
Although less common now, they remain practical for large families or businesses transporting passengers.
Popular examples: Ford Galaxy, Citroën Berlingo, Vauxhall Combo Life.
Best for: Families needing 6 or 7 seats with good storage and comfort.
Which Car Body Type Is Right for You?
If you want compact size and easy parking, go for a hatchback.
Need premium comfort for long drives? Choose a saloon.
For families and space-lovers, SUVs and estates are practical picks.
Prefer a sporty look? A coupe suits style-driven buyers.
And for maximum seats and room, MPVs remain the most flexible option.
Leasing allows you to try different body types without long-term commitment - helping you find what truly fits your lifestyle.
Browse our latest car leasing deals to explore every shape and size on offer.
FAQs About Car Body Types
There are several car body styles including hatchback, SUV, coupe, estate, saloon, MPV, and convertible. Each style is designed for different needs such as passenger space, storage, or performance.
Consider your lifestyle, family size, daily commute, and storage requirements. For example, estates or larger SUVs are ideal for families, while hatchbacks or coupes suit drivers looking for a compact or stylish vehicle.
A hatchback has a rear door that swings upwards to provide access to the boot, which is part of the main interior. Hatchbacks are compact, practical, and popular with young or new drivers.
A saloon (or sedan) prioritises passenger comfort with a separate boot, while an estate provides extra storage behind the rear seats, making it suitable for carrying larger items.
The car body type refers to the shape, size, and design of a vehicle. It affects passenger space, cargo capacity, and driving style.
SUVs and some larger estates tend to offer higher safety ratings due to their size and build. However, safety also depends on features like airbags, crumple zones, and crash-test results.
There are typically 7–10 main car body types, including hatchback, SUV, coupe, estate, saloon, MPV, convertible, and sports car. Some variations exist for niche vehicles.