Global Insights into Compact Car Classifications and Standards
Explore the global standards and classifications of compact cars, including size definitions across continents and vehicle styles. Learn about the market segment's significance and size ranges for different vehicle types worldwide.
Global Overview of Compact Car Classifications and Standards
In North American terminology, a compact vehicle is smaller than a mid-sized car but larger than a subcompact model. In the UK, these are often called family cars, while in Europe, they belong to the C-segment category.
The EPA defines compact cars' length at about 4,100 mm (161 in) for hatchbacks, and international models average around 4,450 mm (175 in). Passenger vehicle categories are primarily based on interior volume or seating capacity, excluding special-purpose vehicles.
Sizes vary for different styles: convertibles measure approximately 4,400 mm (173 in) to 4,750 mm (187 in), while sedans, station wagons, and estate cars have similar dimensions. Compact SUVs and MPVs, based on the same platform, typically range from 4,200 mm (165 in) to 4,500 mm (177 in). International standards adapt these figures slightly, with sizes between 4,400 mm (173 in) and 4,700 mm (185 in).
In Japan, vehicles designated as compact range from 3,400 mm to 4,700 mm in length, 1,480 mm to 1,700 mm in width, with a height up to 2,000 mm, and engine displacements between 660 cc and 2,000 cc.
The dimensional standards are fairly strict, with no specific considerations for CUVs, SUVs, station wagons, minivans, or hatchbacks. In North America, 'compact car' refers to vehicles slightly larger than subcompacts but smaller than midsize cars. The segment holds about 16% of the global market share, mainly driven by imports. Wheelbase lengths typically range from 100 inches (2,540 mm) to 109 inches (2,769 mm).
