Differences Between Hatchbacks And Sedans

Buying a car involves a lot of decision-making. For example, you must decide whether to buy a hatchback or sedan if you have narrowed your decision to a small car. Many manufacturers offer hatchback and sedan versions for many of their small car models. Know the differences between the two car versions to help you decide. Below are some of the differences.

Passenger Space

Sedans and hatchbacks usually have different interior spaces, even for the same car in both versions. Sedans usually have more interior space than hatchbacks. You may appreciate the difference if you are tall, especially while sitting in the back seat. 

One reason for hatchback interior space constraints is the need to create room for trunk space. That is not the case with sedans since they have separate compartments for passengers and luggage. Consult manufacturer specs or try out different car versions to determine if the space difference is an issue.

Luggage Space

A sedan with all seats occupied has a bigger luggage space than a comparable hatchback with all its seats occupied. The situation is different for people who need to carry a lot of luggage and have free back seats. In such a case, you can fold down the rear hatchback seats and increase the luggage area size.

Exterior Dimensions

Shape and design means sedans are usually longer than hatchbacks. You may appreciate the smaller hatchback dimensions while driving in crowded spaces or on narrow roads and when parking in congested spaces. Again, the exact differences vary by the car manufacturer and specific models.

Rear Visibility

Rear visibility is better for hatchbacks than sedans because the former lack the extra compartment behind the back seats. The hatchback's excellent visibility is handy when reversing, especially in crowded places. Inexperienced drivers will particularly appreciate the high rear visibility that hatchbacks offer.

Safety

Car safety depends on various factors, including material, design, and size. Crash safety also depends on the impact location. Sedans usually have better rear crash safety than hatchbacks. The extra compartment behind the back sedan seats provides additional material that absorbs shock and reduces the crash impact for the car's occupants.

Price

Lastly, hatchbacks are generally pricier than sedans of the same class. The price difference varies by car—it may be significant for some cars but not others. There are several theories for the price difference. For example, some claim sedans outsell hatchbacks, so sedan sellers must offer more competitive pricing.

Contact a local car dealership, such as Western Avenue Nissan, to learn more.