Since the same models began to roll off the conveyors of automobile concerns, but in different body designs, disputes about what is better - a sedan or a hatchback have not ceased. These questions are often asked by motorists choosing a new car. So which option should I prefer?
The image of the car among Russians, especially the older generation, was formed on the basis of domestic brands. A longed dream of the end of the last century - "Volga". Like it or not, it is the same on all sides. Spartan interior, nothing more in the exterior design. However, she was attracted by her size and solidity. So there was a view of compatriots about the sedan. It must be necessarily large, roomy and presentable. At that time, people did not think what the words “hatchback” and “sedan” mean. The difference at that time simply did not exist, since there was no particular choice.
In Soviet times, no one thought about hatchbacks. In this version of the body, the Russian auto industry did not produce cars. And those few copies that flashed in foreign films caused no more than surprise. Therefore, not many people thought about how a sedan differs from a hatchback. Now this problem has become more relevant. When choosing a specific model of the car, the buyer is always asked the question in which body he wants to buy it. And here difficulties begin. The fact that cars differ in appearance is understandable. But what are the differences under the hood and in the chassis? What are the pros and cons of both bodies? Sedan or hatchback - which is better?
Sedan Benefits
First of all, this is a big trunk. It is due to the elongated rear end that the car looks so solid and majestic. Secondly, the isolation of the cabin from the trunk. Smells and sounds from the rear compartment do not penetrate. Thirdly, the rear window does not get dirt and splashes from under the rear wheels. No rear wiper required.
Cons sedan
1. Low clearance in almost all models. The sedan was created for city life. He feels confident on the pavement within the metropolis and on high-speed freeways, but passes in front of dirt roads. This is not to say that sedan cars cannot drive out of town. However, outside the asphalt, they feel at least uncomfortable, awkwardly waddling along the bumps of rural roads.
2. Dimensions. In addition to the fact that the car looks solid, sometimes there is a need to park it. And in a megalopolis, where every centimeter of parking space is registered, putting such a long car is very problematic.
Hatchback benefits
Firstly, it is its compactness and, as a result, better controllability due to the lack of a “tail”. Secondly, a more dynamic and sporty look. The hatchback seems more nimble and agile than a phlegmatic sedan. And finally, the price difference. A compact car usually costs a little cheaper than a full-size sedan.
However, these are only external advantages. As for the chassis, the ground clearance of the hatchbacks is slightly larger. This gives them the opportunity to easily overcome not only broken asphalt, but also the “surprises” of dirt roads. The suspension is also adapted to this. The hatchback is tougher than the sedan. Therefore, a compact car is more confident in cornering at high speed.
Hatchback Cons
If we compare the sedan and the hatchback in terms of loading the trunk, then the latter is clearly losing. The compact capacity of the luggage compartment is much less. In addition, the “cargo” compartment is not separated from the passenger compartment by a solid partition. Do not put a cargo with a pungent smell in such a trunk, otherwise it will be uncomfortable in the cabin. On the other hand, if you need to translate something long, then the sedan loses.
Sedan or hatchback - what to choose?
It is impossible to give a definite answer to this question. It all depends on the owner’s lifestyle, his status and his personal predilections. You can’t say about the hatchback that it is prestigious and representative. This is a machine for expansive energetic people who are used to doing everything everywhere. A sedan, by contrast, makes its owner a higher rank. This car is more representative, and it is chosen by people who prefer to drive a full-fledged car, and not with a “tail cut off”.
So when choosing a sedan or hatchback, the owner must first of all be aware of where and how he will operate the car. It is impractical to give preference to the first if most of your life goes out of town. And do not buy a hatchback if the owner occupies a certain position in society. The car, as you know, is judged on its owner.