The Most Popular Classifications and Segments of Cars Today

Classification of cars is the process of classifying vehicles into different groups based on their technical characteristics and functions. Vehicles can be classified according to vehicle structure, purpose of use, engine...

Car segment is a way of dividing the car market into groups of customers with similar needs and wants. Popular car segments include class A cars, class B cars, class C cars, class D cars, class E cars, class F cars, class M cars, class J cars and class S cars.

The automobile industry is increasingly developing with a diversity of segments and vehicle types, meeting the increasing needs of consumers.

According to a report by the Vietnam Automobile Manufacturers Association (VAMA), by the end of 2022, the Vietnamese market has consumed more than 400.000 vehicles of all types, an increase of 33% compared to 2021.

This growth rate shows the great interest and demand of Vietnamese people in owning cars. To choose the right car type and segment, you need to pay attention to your needs, purpose of use, finances, traffic infrastructure conditions...

The following article presents details about it Classification and segmentation of cars The most popular today, let's explore now!

CPopular Car Classification Criteria

3 common criteria for classifying cars include: Vehicle structure, purpose of use, engine and fuel...

1. Classification according to vehicle structure

Based on the body structure, cars are divided into lines such as hatchbacks, sedans, SUVs, MPVs, pickup trucks...

• Hatchback cars: Characterized by a short rear design, the rear door opens upward, and the luggage compartment is one piece with the passenger compartment. The advantages of hatchback cars are neatness, flexibility in movement and fuel economy. Some popular hatchback models include Honda Jazz, Toyota Yaris, Ford Fiesta.
• Sedan: Has a design of 3 separate compartments (engine compartment, passenger compartment, luggage compartment), the roof extends to the rear. Sedan cars bring luxury, comfort and spacious interior space. Popular sedan models such as Toyota Vios, Mazda3, Hyundai Accent.
• SUV (Sport Utility Vehicle): Combining the design of a sports car and an off-road vehicle, high chassis, large interior space. SUVs are suitable for traveling in many different terrains and weather. Some prominent names in the SUV segment include Ford Everest, Toyota Fortuner, Hyundai Santa Fe.
• MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle): Features a spacious cabin design, high ceiling, usually has 3 rows of seats with 7-8 seats. MPVs are an ideal choice for large families thanks to their versatility and convenience. Typical examples of MPV lines are Toyota Innova, Kia Sedona, Suzuki Ertiga.
• Pick-up truck: Has a rear cargo box and a spacious cabin similar to an SUV. Pickup trucks are suitable for transportation needs and are often popular in mountainous and rural provinces. Ford Ranger, Mitsubishi Triton, Toyota Hilux are popular pickup truck models in Vietnam.
• Crossover vehicle: A combination of an SUV (Sport Utility Vehicle) and a passenger car, providing versatility and flexibility, suitable for both city and light off-road travel. Popular car models: Ford Escape, Toyota Corolla Cross, Honda HR-V, Mazda CX-30, Hyundai Kona.
• Convertible car: An open-top car, the roof can be opened/closed electrically or manually, providing a feeling of freedom and liberal driving. Popular car models include: Mazda MX-5 Miata, BMW Z4, Mercedes-Benz C-Class Cabriolet, Porsche 911 Cabriolet, Audi A5 Cabriolet.
• Coupe car: A 2-door sports car, possessing a sporty and stylish design, providing a strong, high-speed driving feeling. Toyota GR86, Hyundai Veloster, Ford Mustang, BMW M4, Mercedes-Benz AMG C63 Coupe are popular products of this car line.

2. Classify according to intended use

Based on the purpose of use, cars are divided into groups: family cars, sports cars, off-road vehicles, and cargo vehicles.

• Family car: Design focuses on spacious interior space, comfortable equipment and safety. Family cars usually belong to the sedan, SUV, and MPV lines.
• Sports car: Focus on aerodynamic design, powerful engine and impressive performance.
• Off-road vehicle: Equipped with 4-wheel drive system, high ground clearance, good off-road ability. Popular off-road vehicles such as SUVs, pickup trucks, and crossovers.
• Cargo vehicle: Designed to transport goods with spacious storage compartments. Freight vehicles include light trucks, heavy trucks, dump trucks, and tractors.

3. Classification by engine and fuel

Based on engine and fuel, cars are divided into 4 main types: gasoline engine cars, diesel engine cars, hybrid cars, and electric cars.

• Gasoline engine car: Uses gasoline as fuel, has advantages in power and acceleration. However, gasoline cars often have higher fuel consumption and emissions than diesel cars.
• Diesel engine vehicles: Using diesel, has the advantages of large torque and fuel economy. The disadvantage of diesel cars is that noise and vibration are higher than gasoline cars.
• Hybrid vehicle: Combines an internal combustion engine (gasoline or diesel) with an electric motor, capable of saving fuel and reducing emissions. Hybrid cars are increasingly popular thanks to their environmental friendliness. Some famous hybrid car models include Toyota Prius, Honda Insight, Hyundai Ioniq.
• Electric vehicles: Use energy from batteries, do not produce direct emissions. Electric cars are the trend of the future thanks to their sustainability and environmental friendliness. However, the limitation of electric vehicles is that the operating range depends on battery capacity and the charging station system has not been widely developed. Some pioneering electric car companies such as Tesla, Nissan Leaf, BMW i3, Vinfast.

In addition, cars are also classified according to the following criteria:

• By size: Small car (Mini), medium car (Compact), medium car (Midsize), large car (Large).
• By number of seats: 2-seat cars, 4-5-seat cars, 7-seat cars, 12-seat cars, 15-seat cars,...

Popular Car Segments on the Market

Popular car segments on the market include: A-class cars, B-class cars, C-class cars, D-class cars, E-class cars, F-class cars, M-class cars, J-class cars and S-class cars.

1. Class A car segment

Class A cars are models with compact size, low price, suitable for traveling in the city.

• Advantages: Save fuel, easy to move and park, cheap.
• Disadvantages: Limited interior space, basic amenities, average performance and safety.

Popular car models: Hyundai Grand i10, Kia Morning, Vinfast Fadil, Suzuki Celerio, Honda Brio...

2. B-class car segment

Class B cars are models that are larger in size than Class A cars, have a higher price but still ensure fuel economy and are suitable for traveling in the city.

• Advantages: More spacious interior space than Class A cars, more diverse amenities, better performance and safety.
• Disadvantages: Price is higher than class A cars but size is still limited compared to higher segments.

Popular car models: Toyota Yaris, Hyundai Accent, Honda City, Mitsubishi Attrage, Mazda 2...

3. C-class car segment

Class C cars are models of average size and price, suitable for both city and highway travel.

• Advantages: Spacious interior space, fully equipped with amenities, strong performance and high safety.
• Disadvantages: Price and operating costs are higher than class A and B cars.

Popular car models: Toyota Corolla Altis, Honda Civic, Hyundai Elantra, Mazda 3, Kia Cerato...

4. Class D car segment

Class D cars are large-sized, high-priced models aimed at luxury and comfort.

• Advantages: Spacious and luxurious interior space, high-class amenities, strong performance and outstanding safety.
• Disadvantages: Very high price, high operating costs, bulky vehicle size makes it difficult to move in the city.

Popular car models: Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Mazda 6, Kia Optima, Hyundai Sonata...

5. E-class car segment

E-class cars are large luxury sedans, wagons, and hatchbacks, equipped with the most advanced technology and providing a classy driving experience.

• Advantages: Luxurious design, high-class interior, modern amenities, strong performance and outstanding safety.
• Disadvantages: Very high price, high operating costs, bulky vehicle size.

Popular car models: Mercedes-Benz E-Class, BMW 5 Series, Audi A6, Lexus ES, Volvo S90...

6. F-class car segment

F-class cars are luxury cars but are larger in size and equipped with more classy and complete engines and amenities than E-class cars.

• Advantages: The most luxurious design, lavish interior with the highest quality materials, equipped with the most modern amenities, powerful performance and outstanding safety.
• Disadvantages: Extremely high price, high operating costs, bulky vehicle size.

Popular car models: Mercedes-Benz S-Class, BMW 7 Series, Audi A8, Lexus LS, Porsche Panamera...

7. M-class car segment

M-class cars are multi-purpose models, with spacious and flexible designs, suitable for families or business activities. The car usually has 7 seats, spacious luggage compartment, easy to fold and open to carry goods.

Advantage:

• Possessing a spacious, comfortable interior space for 7 adults, the seats can be flexibly adjusted, suitable for many needs.
• The flexible folding ability of the seats helps you easily convert the passenger space into cargo space.
• Has a powerful, fuel-efficient engine, suitable for traveling in the city and long distances.
• Has a reasonable price, suitable for the financial capabilities of many Vietnamese families.

Disadvantages:

• The bulky vehicle size makes it difficult to move on narrow roads or cramped parking spaces.
• Has a design that focuses on convenience rather than sportiness.
• Has higher fuel consumption compared to sedans in the same segment.

Popular car models: Toyota Innova, Mitsubishi Xpander, Suzuki Ertiga, Kia Rondo, Ford Tourneo.

8. J-class car segment

J-class vehicles are a combination of passenger cars and off-road vehicles, with a dynamic, powerful design, suitable for both city travel and light off-road use. Vehicles usually have 5-7 seats, high chassis, 4-wheel drive system (some vehicle models).

Characteristics:

• Possesses the ability to move flexibly on many terrains, both meeting the needs of moving in the city and suitable for backpacking trips and picnics.
• The high chassis helps the vehicle easily overcome rough and rocky terrain, while also providing a wider field of vision for the driver.
• Some J-class vehicles are equipped with a 4-wheel drive system, helping the vehicle have light off-road capabilities and conquer complex terrain.
• Sporty and personality design, bringing a strong and dynamic style to the owner.

However, due to its high chassis and high weight, J-class cars often have higher fuel consumption than sedans in the same segment.

Popular car models: Ford Ecosport, Chevrolet Trax, Honda CR-V, Mazda CX-5, Nissan X-Trail.

9. S-class car segment

S-class cars are the most luxurious and high-end models on the market, possessing classy design, lavish interiors, and the most advanced technology. Vehicles usually have 4 - 5 seats, providing a perfect driving experience and optimal comfort.

Advantage:

• Possesses a luxurious, sophisticated, classy design and lavish interior.
• Fully equipped with the most modern amenities such as large-screen infotainment system, multi-zone automatic air conditioning, leather seats with electric adjustment/position memory, sunroof, high-end sound system,...
• Possessing a powerful engine, smooth operation, providing an exciting and impressive driving experience.
• Fully integrated with the most advanced safety systems such as ABS, EBD, BA, ESP,... to ensure optimal safety for the driver and passengers.

However, the selling price and maintenance and repair costs of S-class cars are extremely expensive, only for customers with strong financial potential. At the same time, the liquidity of S-class cars is low due to high selling prices and limited customer base.

Popular car models: Mercedes-Benz S-Class, BMW 7-Series, Audi A8, Lexus LS, Porsche Panamera.

Factors Influencing The Choice Of Car Segment

When choosing to buy a car, consumers need to consider many factors such as needs, purpose of use, finances, traffic infrastructure conditions and consumption trends to make appropriate decisions.

1. User needs

Large families (4 or more people) often need cars with spacious interior space and many seats, such as MPVs (Toyota Innova, Kia Rondo) or 7-seat SUVs (Hyundai Santa Fe, Ford Everest).

Meanwhile, single people or couples can choose small cars (VinFast Fadil, Honda Brio) or sedans (Toyota Vios, Mazda3).

According to data from the General Statistics Office, the average household size in Vietnam in 2021 is 3,6 people.

2. User intent

For urban travel needs, small cars or sedans will be suitable thanks to their high flexibility and fuel economy. If you often go on long trips or carry cargo, an SUV or pickup truck (Ford Ranger, Mitsubishi Triton) may be a better choice thanks to its spacious space and multi-terrain ability.

AutoBuy's survey shows that 62% of car buyers use them for work and urban travel, while 31% buy cars to serve the family's travel needs, and 7% buy cars for business. transport or carry goods.

3. Finance

Car price is an important factor affecting the decision to choose a car segment. Consumers need to consider their budget and choose a car segment that suits their financial capabilities.

AutoBuy's survey shows that the average car buying budget of Vietnamese people is about 500-800 million VND. At this price, consumers have many choices in the B-segment car segment such as Honda City, Hyundai Accent, Toyota Vios.

In addition to the purchase price, operating and maintenance costs also need to be taken into account. The larger and more advanced the car, the higher the fuel, insurance and maintenance costs. For example, with a 7-seat SUV like Hyundai Santa Fe, monthly fuel costs can be up to 4-5 million VND.

4. Traffic conditions

According to a report from the Ministry of Transport, by 2021, Vietnam has about 140.000 km of roads of all types, of which urban roads account for about 8%.

If you often travel on crowded urban roads, a small car or sedan will be more flexible thanks to its compact size and flexible turning ability. If you live in an area with rough roads or go off-road like in the mountains, an SUV or pickup truck with high ground clearance and good suspension will be more suitable.

As of 2021, Vietnam has about 500 public electric vehicle charging stations, concentrated mainly in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

If consumers want to use electric vehicles, they need to consider access to public charging stations in their living and working areas. In addition, with the lack of parking in large cities, choosing a small car will be more convenient in finding a parking space.

5. Consciousness of consumption

People who are highly environmentally conscious tend to choose hybrid or electric vehicles to minimize their impact on the environment.

Hybrid and electric cars often cost more than traditional cars. Consumers need to consider their willingness to pay to contribute to environmental protection.

Questions Related to Car Classification & Segment

1. How are crossovers different from SUVs and hatchbacks?

A crossover vehicle is a combination of the design of an SUV and the chassis of a passenger car (sedan or hatchback). Compared to SUVs, crossovers are more compact in size, more fuel efficient but still maintain spacious interior space. Compared to hatchbacks, crossovers have higher ground clearance and more versatile operation capabilities.

2. What safety equipment should a car have?

When buying a car, you need to choose cars with the following safety equipment:

• ABS anti-lock braking system.
• ESP electronic balance system.
• TCS traction control system.
• Airbags (number and location).
• Reverse camera and parking assist sensor.

3. What new trends and technologies are there in the auto segment?

The automotive industry is witnessing the rapid development of new trends and technologies such as:

• Development of electric and hybrid vehicles. Read the article now: Why electric cars are an inevitable trend? shared in the most detail on the website.
• Combination of traditional car segments - Crossover cars.
• Integrating self-driving technology and smart connectivity.

4. What criteria should you consider when choosing to buy a used car?

When buying used cars, consumers need to pay attention to the following criteria:

• Vehicle origin and history (number of kilometers traveled, number of owners, repairs, accidents, flooding).
• Overall technical condition (engine, gearbox, electrical system, chassis, interior and exterior).
• The price is suitable for the quality of the car.
• Brands and models of vehicles with high durability and few minor breakdowns.
• Ability to maintain and replace spare parts easily.

5. What costs should you consider when buying a car?

These Expenses to consider when buying a car Includes fixed costs and flexible costs:

• Fixed costs: Insurance, registration fees, interest and capital costs, depreciation.
• Flexible expenses: Fuel costs, car washing, parking, maintenance, roads and bridges, etc.

6. What are the advantages and disadvantages of electric cars compared to traditional gasoline cars?

The advantages of electric cars compared to traditional gasoline cars are:

• No CO2 emissions, environmentally friendly.
• Lower operating and maintenance costs.
• Fast acceleration and great torque.
• Smooth operation, low noise.

Disadvantages of electric cars compared to traditional gasoline cars are:

• The initial purchase price is higher than a gasoline car.
• Operating range depends on battery capacity.
• Charging time is longer than refueling time.
• The charging station system has not been widely developed.

7. Where should I buy a car with good quality and price?

Established since 2013, Thanh Phong Auto become address for buying and selling new and used cars Quality, good price. Read the article now: Experience of buying used cars – 5 important criteria & things to note when buying that you definitely need to understand.

Advantages of Thanh Phong Auto:

• Providing a variety of car models, colors and styles to meet customers' different preferences and budgets.
• Competitive price compared to the market.
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• Support to change name and owner, register vehicle documents.
• Thorough warranty by a team of professional technicians and modern machinery.

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