Today, crossovers dominate the new car market. However, experts remind us that this trend is not always justified from a practicality standpoint. Manufacturers produce about a dozen body types, many of which may be far more convenient for everyday life than trendy SUVs.

Consumer Mistakes and Marketing Tricks

Choosing a body type is not just a matter of aesthetics but a key factor in convenience. Unfortunately, manufacturers sometimes mislead buyers by using names that do not match the car's actual characteristics. For example, sedans or hatchbacks with four comfortable seats and a spacious trunk were often sold under the guise of coupes.

Models such as BMW "3" series, Nissan 100 NX and 300 ZX series, Renault Megane Coupe, Hyundai Coupe, and even the Volkswagen Phaeton, which was actually a sedan, fall into this category. Even names like Barchetta or Spider often hid more practical roadsters.

How to Choose a Car for the Whole Family

Auto expert Dmitry Chaban, a test pilot for the Tyres Testing Group team, emphasizes the importance of the right approach to choosing a car:

  • Come to the dealership with your whole family to check how convenient it is for everyone to get in and out of the car.
  • Assess whether there is enough space for all family members, especially if you often travel together.
  • Check if everything necessary fits in the trunk: bicycles, strollers, sports equipment, and other items.
  • Ensure that loading and unloading the trunk does not require complex seat rearrangement.

Crossover Alternatives: Liftbacks and Station Wagons

Aside from crossovers, there are other body types that remain relevant due to their practicality. One of them is the liftback. This body type combines the advantages of a hatchback and a sedan: it has a more spacious trunk thanks to an elongated rear section, while maintaining the compactness and fuel efficiency of a passenger car.

Examples of popular liftbacks include the Skoda Octavia, Tesla Model S, Renault Laguna, Volkswagen Arteon, and BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé. Liftbacks successfully compete with crossovers, offering a better balance between style and functionality.

Another worthy option is the station wagon. This body type features a vertical rear hatch, ensuring maximum trunk capacity. Station wagons are often called "sheds" for their ability to carry large volumes of cargo. Despite less comfort due to a stiffer suspension and a noisier cabin, station wagons remain one of the most practical solutions for family trips.

Van: A Rational Choice for Those Who Value Space

From a technical standpoint, a van (a car with a wagon layout) is the most rational body type. Every centimeter of usable space is used as efficiently as possible. A van lacks unnecessary elements such as drive shaft tunnels or large wheels, making it an ideal choice for those who value space and practicality.

In conclusion, the choice of body type should be based on the driver's real needs, not on fashion. Crossovers are undoubtedly popular, but they are not always the best solution for every situation. Liftbacks, station wagons, and vans offer an alternative that may be much more convenient and practical for everyday life.