Body Type – What It Means and Why It Matters

Vehicles come in different shapes and sizes, and the body type refers to the general design and structure of the vehicle’s exterior. Body type is important because it determines which parts will fit correctly, especially when replacing large panels like bumpers, doors, or fenders.

What is a Body Type?
A body type is the classification of a vehicle based on its overall shape, size, and number of doors. Examples include sedan, SUV, coupe, and hatchback. Even if two vehicles are from the same manufacturer and year, their body types can be different—and so can the parts that fit them.

Example:

• Sedan: A passenger car with four doors and a separate trunk compartment.

• SUV: A sport utility vehicle with higher ground clearance and more cargo space, often with a hatch-style rear door.

• Coupe: A two-door vehicle with a sportier profile and sloping roofline.

• Hatchback: A compact or mid-size vehicle with a rear door that swings upward, providing access to the cargo area.