Car Size and Dimensions Guide

Car size and dimensions play a crucial role in choosing the right vehicle for your needs. From compact city cars to spacious SUVs and trucks, each category offers different benefits in terms of space, manoeuvrability, and fuel efficiency. This guide breaks down different vehicle categories and key measurements to help you find the perfect fit.

Car Dimensions

Height: A car’s height measures from the ground to the highest point of its roof. It directly affects headroom, aerodynamics, and overall driving experience. Taller cars generally provide more headroom and a higher seating position.  For example, the Land Rover Defender, with a height of 1,974mm, is built for off-road adventures, offering superior ground clearance. Conversely, sports cars like the Porsche 911 Turbo (1,303mm) are much lower, improving aerodynamics and stability at high speeds.

Width: This is the measurement of a vehicle from one side to the other, excluding side mirrors. It impacts cabin space, road presence, and manoeuvrability, particularly in tight parking spots and narrow streets. For example, the Hyundai i10 has a width of 1,680mm (exc. mirrors), while the Peugeot 5008 SUV is wider at 1,844mm (exc. mirrors).

Length: This refers to the measurement from the front bumper to the rear bumper. It plays a significant role in determining a car’s interior space, manoeuvrability, and parking ease. Shorter vehicles, such as city cars and hatchbacks, are easier to park and navigate in tight spaces, while longer cars typically offer more interior space. For example, the Fiat 500 has a length of 3,571mm, whereas the Nissan X-Trail SUV is 4,680mm in length. 

Boot Capacity: Also known as boot space, it measures the volume of a vehicle’s boot, typically in litres. It determines how much luggage, shopping, or equipment a car can carry. For comparison the Vauxhall Corsa's boot capacity is 309 litres, making it much smaller than the Skoda Superb Estate’s 690 litres. Some electric vehicles, like the Kia EV6, feature a front boot ("frunk") for additional storage.

Ground Clearance: This is the height between the lowest part of the vehicle and the road. It significantly affects off-road capability, ride comfort, and handling. Vehicles with higher ground clearance can easily traverse rough terrain, while lower-clearance cars provide better stability and aerodynamics. For example, the Suzuki Jimny SUV has a ground clearance of 210mm compared to the BMW Z4 Roadster’s 117mm ground clearance.

Wheelbase: This refers to the distance between a car’s front and rear axles. It plays a major role in ride comfort, interior space, and handling. A longer wheelbase generally improves stability at higher speeds and allows for more legroom inside. For example, the Tesla Model 3 (2,875mm) has an extended wheelbase, meanwhile the Fiat 500 (2,400mm) has a short wheelbase.

Sizes and Dimensions by Bodystyle  

City Cars

• Length: Under 3,300mm

• Height: 1,400 – 1,500mm

• Width: 1,450 – 1,650mm

• Boot Capacity: 150-250 litres

City cars are small, agile vehicles designed for urban driving and navigating tight streets. Popular models include the Smart Fortwo, known for its ultra-compact size, and the Fiat 500, which offers a stylish yet practical city-friendly design.

These cars are ideal for short commutes and city life, offering excellent fuel efficiency and low running costs. Their tight turning circles make them easy to manoeuvre in congested areas. However, city cars have drawbacks, including limited passenger and boot space. They also have smaller engines, which may struggle on motorways. Overall, city cars are perfect for solo drivers or couples looking for an affordable, efficient, and easy-to-drive vehicle.

Browse our current city car lease deals.

Superminis

• Length: 3,300 - 4,000mm

• Height: 1,400 - 1,550mm

• Width: 1,650 - 1,800mm

• Boot Capacity: 250-350 litres

Superminis are compact yet versatile cars, offering a balance between city-friendly dimensions and practicality. These are slightly larger than city cars but remain easy to park and manoeuvre. Popular models include the Ford Fiesta, known for its fun driving dynamics, and the Volkswagen Polo, which offers a high-quality interior.

These cars are ideal for urban commuting and small families, providing good fuel efficiency and affordable running costs. Their compact size makes them agile in traffic while still offering reasonable cabin space for daily use. However, superminis have some drawbacks, particularly limited rear passenger space, making longer journeys less comfortable for adults in the back. Boot capacity is also moderate in a supermini, though sufficient for everyday errands.

Hatchbacks

• Length: 4,100 - 4,500mm

• Height: 1,400 - 1,550mm

• Width: 1,700 - 1,800mm

• Boot Capacity: 300-400 litres

Hatchbacks are one of the most popular car types, offering a balance of compact size, practicality, and efficiency. Popular models include the Volkswagen Golf, known for its reliability and premium feel, and the Ford Focus, which offers a fun driving experience.

Hatchbacks are best suited for small families, commuters, and urban drivers, providing good fuel efficiency, easy parking, and a practical boot design. The rear hatch allows for flexible boot space, making them more versatile than saloons. However, a hatchback might lack the storage capacity of estates or SUVs. Rear passenger space can also be tight in smaller hatchback models.

View our latest hatchback lease deals.

Coupes

• Length: 4,200 - 4,700mm

• Height: 1,300 – 1,400mm

• Width: 1,900 – 1,800mm

• Boot Capacity: 300-400 litres

Coupes are stylish, performance-oriented cars that combine elegance with a sporty edge. Popular models such as the BMW 4 Series and Audi A5 offer a mix of dynamic driving and modern luxury.

Coupes are often designed with a 2-door configuration, offering a more intimate driving experience with limited rear seat space. They also provide reasonable boot space for a sporty car but not as much as larger saloons or estate cars. While coupes excel in style and driving enjoyment, they may not be as practical for families or those needing significant boot space.

Discover highly competitive coupe lease deals, here.

Convertibles

• Length: 4,000 – 4,500mm

• Height: 1,300 – 1,400mm  

• Width: 1,900 – 1,800mm  

• Boot Capacity: 200-350 litres

Convertibles are cars designed for an open-air driving experience, offering the freedom of a retractable roof that allows you to enjoy the fresh air. they are compact and sporty, with a sleek design that prioritises style and performance. Popular models like the Mazda MX-5 and BMW Z4 are known for their dynamic driving and stylish looks.

While convertibles are perfect for sunny days and spirited driving, their boot capacity is often smaller. Interior space can also be more limited, particularly in the rear seats. The low height enhances the sporty feel but can limit headroom and luggage space.

View our current convertible car lease deals.

Saloons

• Length: 4,300 – 5,000mm

• Height: 1,400 - 1,550mm

• Width: 1,750 - 1,900mm

• Boot Capacity: 400-500 litres

Saloons appeal to those seeking a stylish, comfortable car with ample storage space for daily use and longer journeys. Typically, they have an elegant design and spacious interior, as well as offering a comfortable ride. Popular models include the BMW 3 Series saloon and the Audi A4 saloon, which offer premium interiors and smooth driving experiences.

These cars are ideal for long-distance travel, commuting, or family trips, offering features like generous boot capacity. The low ride height and balanced proportions contribute to a stable drive, especially on motorways. However, saloons may have limited versatility compared to hatchbacks or estates, as their boot is less flexible.

Take a look at our fantastic saloon lease deals.

Estate Cars

• Length: 4,700 – 5,000mm

• Height: 1,400 - 1,550mm

• Width: 1,800 - 1,900mm

• Boot Capacity: 500-700 litres

Estate cars are known for their extra boot space and versatility, making them ideal for families and those needing more storage. An estate car offers a longer body compared to saloons, providing a larger boot capacity. Popular models like the Volkswagen Passat Estate and Skoda Superb Estate combine comfort, practicality, and style.

These cars are perfect for long road trips, family vacations, and daily commuting, offering plenty of room for passengers and their belongings. Although, sometimes, their size may make parking or manoeuvring in tight spaces a bit more challenging.

View our latest estate car lease deals.

People Carriers

• Length: 4,200 - 5,100mm

• Height: 1,600 - 1,900mm

• Width: 1,700 - 1,900mm

• Boot Capacity: 550 – 800 litres

Also known as MPVs (multi-purpose vehicles), these are designed to provide ample space for families or larger groups. They are larger than regular cars to offer more room for passengers, often seating between 5 to 7 people comfortably. Popular models like the Volkswagen ID. Buzz and Volkswagen Touran are known for their practicality and comfort.

These vehicles provide generous headroom and easy access to all seats. The boot space is also very good and can be increased by folding the rear seats. People carriers are ideal for long trips, family vacations, and everyday commuting.

View our fantastic people carrier lease deals.

Crossovers

• Length: 4,200 - 4,500mm

• Height: 1,500 - 1,700mm

• Width: 1,800 - 1,900mm

• Boot Capacity: 400-550 litres

Crossovers blend the best features of SUVs and hatchbacks, offering a compact, yet spacious vehicle ideal for both city and light off-road driving. They are slightly smaller than traditional SUVs, making them easier to manoeuvre in urban areas. Popular models like the Ford Puma and Kia Stonic are known for their practicality, comfort, and style.

Crossovers offer a raised driving position, providing better visibility and a more commanding view of the road. Also, the boot space offers offering ample storage for daily needs and weekend trips. However, if you need more space, you might want to look at a large SUV or MPV instead.

SUVs

• Length: 4,600 - 5,100mm

• Height: 1,600 - 2,000mm

• Width: 1,700 – 2,000mm

• Boot Capacity: 500-700 litres

SUVs (Sport Utility Vehicles) are known for their rugged design, high ground clearance, and spacious interiors, making them ideal for both urban and off-road driving. They offer more room than saloons or hatchbacks, accommodating families, luggage, and pets with ease. Popular models like the BMW X3 and Volkswagen Tiguan are widely recognized for their balance of comfort and capability.

SUVs provide a commanding view of the road and greater ground clearance, which makes them suitable for light off-roading. However, they tend to have higher fuel consumption than alternatives, unless you opt for a hybrid or fully-electric option.

Highly competitive SUV lease deals available, here.

Conclusion

From the compact agility of city cars to the spacious practicality of SUVs and people carriers, each type offers unique advantages and considerations. Whether you're prioritising fuel efficiency, boot space, or comfort, knowing the key measurements will help you make an informed decision. Choose wisely based on your lifestyle and enjoy a vehicle that suits both your practical needs and personal preferences.

If you have any questions about car leasing, don’t hesitate to get in touch with GB Vehicle Leasing. Call us on 0161 667 5338 to speak with one of our knowledgeable advisors. We’ll help you find the best car lease deals and special offers tailored to meet your specific needs. 

*Please note that car sizes and dimensions can vary depending on the make and model. The figures provided are average measurements to give a general idea of what to expect, but specific vehicles may differ. Always check individual specifications to ensure a perfect fit for your needs.