Hatchbacks

Hatchbacks are compact, practical cars that work really well for everyday city driving. Their standout feature is the rear door, which opens upward and provides access to the boot space built into the main cabin. Unlike sedans, where the trunk sticks out separately, the storage area in a hatchback sits directly behind the rear seats.

Most hatchbacks comfortably seat four to five people and are smaller than SUVs, which makes them easier to park, squeeze through traffic, and handle in tight spaces. If you need more room for luggage or groceries, fold down the rear seats to access additional cargo space.

Pros	Cons
Budget-friendly compared to larger car types.	The car may feel less stable at higher speeds.
You can get great fuel mileage.	The car’s interior space can feel a bit tight.
It offers better rear visibility for the driver.	Does not offer a strong road presence on the road.
Extremely easy to drive and park in crowded cities.	Rear crash safety can be lower than in bulkier cars.

Hatchback Car Types List

1. Maruti Swift
2. Maruti Baleno Tata Tiago
3. Hyundai Grand i10 Nios
4. Maruti Wagon R
5. Tata Altroz
6. Maruti Alto K10
7. Hyundai i20
8. Citroen C3
9. Toyota Glanza
10. Renault Kwid

Also Read: New Car vs. Old Car Insurance: Key Differences Explained

Sedans

Sedans have been around for a long time. While modern features have evolved, the basic idea remains the same. A sedan is a four-door car with a clear three-part layout with the engine in the front, the passenger cabin in the middle, and a separate trunk at the back.

The trunk, or boot, is completely closed off from the cabin, which helps keep luggage secure and hidden. There are many newer sedans that offer fold-down rear seats, allowing you to extend the storage space when needed. But when the seats are upright, the trunk remains private and inaccessible from inside.

Pros and Cons of Sedans Cars

Pros	Cons
You can get good fuel efficiency.	It offers limited cargo flexibility, as larger or bulky items may not fit easily.
This type of car is easy to drive and park in cities.	Not ideal for extreme weather or off-road surfaces.
This car also offers smooth handling and a stable ride.	If the fuel tank is smaller, it may require more frequent stops at the pump.
Comfortable for daily use with a secure trunk.	Its low ground clearance can be challenging on rough roads.

Sedans Car Types List

1. Maruti Suzuki Dzire
2. Volkswagen Virtus
3. Hyundai Verna
4. Skoda Slavia
5. Hyundai Aura
6. Honda Amaze
7. BMW M5
8. Honda City
9. Tata Tigor
10. BMW 3 Series LWB

SUVs (Sports Utility Vehicles)

SUVs are known for their versatility, power, and ability to handle almost anything, from smooth city roads to rough terrain. While the term covers a range of models from family-friendly crossovers to tough off-road machines, their defining traits are their high driving position, larger build, and strong road presence.

Their increased ground clearance and wider build make them feel safer and more capable when roads get uneven or when weather conditions are challenging. Many SUVs also offer all-wheel or four-wheel drive, making them a great match for adventurous drives or tough road conditions.

Pros and Cons of SUV Cars

Pros	Cons
It is built to handle rough roads with higher ground clearance.	A bulkier size can make tight parking and narrow lanes more difficult.
Modern SUVs may offer types of hybrid car options or efficient diesel engines to improve fuel economy.	There are larger engines and heavier builds that often result in lower mileage.
There are spacious cabins with foldable seats that provide excellent comfort.	Its bigger size can feel less agile in heavy traffic or city congestion.
These are available in AWD/4WD options, making them reliable in difficult terrains.	A higher centre of gravity can lead to more body roll when turning or cornering.

SUV Car Types List

1. Defender
2. Mahindra Thar
3. Range Rover
4. Tata Nexon
5. Mahindra Scorpio N
6. Toyota Fortuner
7. Mahindra Scorpio
8. Mahindra Bolero

Compact SUVs

Compact SUVs are a sweet spot for many buyers, as they offer the benefits of an SUV, but in a size that is easier to live with. Their rising popularity is not surprising, as they offer a higher driving position, a confident road presence, better comfort, and more space than hatchbacks or sedans. This is all while still being fuel-efficient. In short, they give you the SUV experience without all the drawbacks of a full-sized SUV.

Pros and Cons of Compact SUV Cars

Pros	Cons
These stylish SUVs are designed in a smaller, more affordable size.	The suspension can feel firm, especially on bumpier roads.
A higher seating position gives better road visibility and a confident drive.	These are heavier than hatchbacks, which may affect agility.
Good ground clearance makes speed breakers and bad roads easier to handle.	The fuel efficiency is lower than that of smaller cars.
Many models come with strong safety ratings and modern features.	Maintenance and running costs can be higher than hatchbacks or sedans.

Compact SUV Car Types List

1. Tata Sierra
2. Maruti FRONX
3. Hyundai Creta
4. Tata Punch
5. Hyundai Venue
6. Kia Seltos
7. Mahindra XUV700
8. Mahindra XEV 9e

MUVs/MPVs (Multi-Utility/Purpose Vehicles)

MUVs or MPVs are built with space and practicality in mind. They are designed to comfortably carry more people, offering three rows of seats. These vehicles prioritise convenience over sporty design or off-road performance. With flexible seating layouts and generous boot space, they are ideal when passengers and luggage are your main priority.

Pros and Cons of MUV/MPV Cars

Pros	Cons
Higher ground clearance than hatchbacks and sedans.	These are not built for rough terrain or off-roading, especially without AWD/RWD options.
Its lightweight and unibody frame helps with fuel efficiency and smooth driving.	There are fewer models available than SUVs and hatchbacks.
This type of car can comfortably seat 6–8 passengers, making it perfect for large families or commercial use.	Usually offer less powerful engines compared to SUVs.

MUV/MPV Car Types List

1. Renault Triber
2. Maruti Ertiga
3. Kia Carens
4. Kia Carnival
5. Toyota Innova Crysta
6. Maruti Suzuki XL6
7. Toyota Vellfire
8. Mahindra Marazzo
9. Datsun GO Plus
10. Maruti Suzuki Eeco

Crossovers

Crossovers are considered the middle ground between a regular car and an SUV. They offer the comfort and easy driving feel of a hatchback or sedan, but with the extra height, space, and road presence you would expect from an SUV. Because they are built on a unibody platform, where the body and frame are one piece, they are lighter, easier to handle, and usually more fuel-efficient than traditional SUVs.

Pros and Cons of Crossover Cars

Pros	Cons
You can maintain resale value well due to high buyer demand.	The higher stance of the vehicle increases the risk of rollover compared to lower cars.
Higher ground clearance makes speed bumps and rough patches easier to manage.	Its slightly heavier design can reduce efficiency and acceleration.
This type of car is built with stronger materials and wider tyres for added stability and safety.	It is difficult to find good budget options in the used market.
When you buy this car, it can feel like a premium upgrade, offering a more modern and stylish appeal.	Its pricing overlaps with that of compact SUVs, making decision-making difficult.
This car offers more cabin room and boot space	It is usually more expensive than hatchbacks or compact cars.

Crossover Car Types List

1. Kia Sonet
2. Hyundai Venue
3. Maruti Suzuki Fronx
4. Nissan Magnite
5. Renault Kiger
6. Hyundai Exter
7. Tata Punch
8. Tata Tiago NRG
9. Maruti Suzuki Ignis
10. Maruti Suzuki S-Presso

Coupe or Luxury Cars

Coupes are all about style, performance, and a premium driving experience. Traditionally, they come with two doors, a sleek roofline, and seating meant mainly for two people. However, some models add small rear seats for occasional use.

Their low stance and flowing design give them a sporty look and help them feel fast and agile on the road. In recent years, some brands have introduced four-door coupes, which keep the same stylish design but offer a bit more practicality

Pros and Cons of Coupe or Luxury Cars

Pros	Cons
High-quality interiors, bucket seats, and performance features create a premium feel.	This is not the best choice if your priority is space or utility.
The sporty handling, low stance, and stylish design of this car make it fun to drive.	The small boot space is less practical for daily use.
These cars have powerful engines for thrilling performance	Generally, these cars are more expensive than most other types of cars.
These cars have comfortable and spacious front seats designed with the driver in mind.	There is limited rear-seat space, which is not ideal for families or long rides.

Coupe or Luxury Car Types List

1. BMW M4
2. BMW M2
3. Porsche 911
4. BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe
5. Lamborghini Revuelto
6. BMW M8
7. Mercedes-Benz AMG GLC43 Coupe
8. Mercedes-Benz AMG CLE
9. Rolls-Royce Spectre
10. Lamborghini Temerario

Electric Cars (EVs)

Electric vehicles, commonly called EVs, are fully electric cars powered by rechargeable battery packs, without any gasoline engine. All energy to move the vehicle comes from the grid via the battery. As a result, EVs produce zero tailpipe emissions, helping to eliminate air pollution. This is a cleaner alternative compared with conventional fuel-powered cars.

Electric Car Types List

Pros	Cons
EVs do not produce harmful emissions.	Electric cars still cost more up front than most traditional fuel-powered vehicles.
Charging is usually more affordable than filling up with petrol or diesel.	Charging stations are not always available everywhere, which can make long trips feel uncertain.
They offer a smooth, quiet driving experience because there are fewer moving mechanical parts.	Charging takes much longer than a quick fuel stop at a petrol pump.
With government subsidies and tax benefits, owning an EV is becoming more rewarding and accessible.	The range of available EV models is improving but remains limited.

Types of Electric Cars in India

1. Mahindra BE 6
2. Mahindra XEV 9e
3. Tata Harrier EV
4. MG Windsor EV
5. Tata Nexon EV
6. MG Comet EV
7. Tata Punch EV
8. Tata Tiago EV
9. Tata Curvv EV
10. MG M9

Also Read: Electric Vehicle Rules in India - Essential Guide for Buyers

Sports Cars & Convertibles

Sports cars and convertibles are built for fun, style, and the joy of driving. Convertibles let you drop the roof and enjoy open-air driving, while sports cars focus on speed, sharp handling, and performance. These cars are not just about getting from one place to another, they are about enjoying the drive and turning heads

Pros and Cons of Sports Cars & Convertibles

Pros	Cons
Driving with the top down feels exciting and luxurious.	Weather issues such as rain, strong heat, or cold can limit how you enjoy roof-down driving.
These cars are stylish and eye-catching, and they definitely turn heads.	Convertibles can be easier targets for theft because the roof offers less protection.
The driving experience is usually more engaging, responsive, and fun.	They tend to cost more due to premium engineering and performance features.
Certain models hold their value well over time, which can be great if you plan to resell.	Since the interior is more exposed, valuables inside may attract unwanted attention.

Sports Cars & Convertibles Car Types List

1. MG Cyberster
2. Mercedes-Benz AMG SL
3. BMW Z4
4. Mercedes-Benz CLE Cabriolet
5. Mercedes-Benz Maybach SL 680
6. Maserati GranCabrio
7. Mercedes-Benz AMG SL55 Roadster
8. Ferrari Portofino
9. Mercedes-Benz AMG E53 Cabriolet
10. Ferrari 812

Finding the right car is not just about what looks good, it is about what fits your lifestyle needs. You must consider how you will use it, where you will drive, how often you travel, and the level of comfort you want. There are compact cars for busy cities to SUVs suited best for weekend getaways. Having an understanding of these different types of cars can make the buying decision easier.

After you have chosen your car and made the initial purchase, the next step is to protect it. TATA AIG car insurance offers plans that match different needs and budgets. This four-wheeler insurance protects you from unexpected repair costs, accidents, theft, natural disasters, and third-party liabilities.

With TATA AIG car insurance, you can comfortably do a quick car insurance online check online to ensure your policy is valid and you’re never out of coverage..

Our car insurance policy offers top benefits like cashless repairs at thousands of network garages across India, 24/7 claim support, discounts up to 85%, and simple online policy purchase.

In addition to these benefits, when you buy car insurance from TATA AIG, you can add custom add-ons such as Zero Depreciation, Engine Protection, Roadside Assistance, and NCB Protect to tailor your insurance to your driving style and needs.