To Go Big, or Not To Go Big? Choosing the Perfect Size Car

When you’re shopping for a new vehicle, you will soon realize that there are so many more options than there were even just a decade ago. You can choose from trucks, which break down by size and towing/hauling capacity, sedans, which vary in size and performance, minivans, and SUVs, which also come in a number of sizes and styles, each with its own set of features. If you’re not sure which vehicle size is the best fit for you, take a look at the differences to help make an informed decision.

Storage Space

If you haul a lot of stuff on a regular basis, you’ll want to look at trucks, SUVs, minivans, and hatchbacks. These models tend to have the most storage space, along with wider openings to fit bulky items. Trucks don’t have a lot of interior storage space, so if you want to keep your stuff protected, you’ll probably need to invest in a cargo cover. It’s important to note that compact and even some midsize crossover SUVs don’t actually have as much room as you might expect, so look at the measurements before you buy.

Fuel Economy

Smaller cars tend to get better gas mileage than bigger ones, so if fuel efficiency is a top priority, you’ll want to look at sedans first. If you absolutely can’t get by with a small car, check out hybrid versions of popular crossover SUVs, since these will get better gas mileage than their gas-powered counterparts. Some SUVs and trucks also have diesel-powered engines, which get better efficiency but cost more to fill up.

Overall Size

If you spend a lot of time driving and parking on busy streets in major cities, a smaller car is probably the best option for you. Trying to park a full-size SUV or truck is not easy, particularly when you’re looking in crowded lots or on tight streets. But make sure to consider your specific needs before you pick the smallest sedan or coupe on the market. If you have kids (or plan to in the near future), opt for a vehicle that has enough room in the back for a rear-facing child seat.

Safety

Some car buyers believe that smaller cars aren’t as safe, but with improved safety features and active technologies, this isn’t really the case anymore. Even the smallest vehicle that Honda makes, the Fit, earned five out of five stars in overall safety, front-crash protection, and side-crash protection from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Many smaller cars are now available with innovative safety features, such as blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control, making them safer than ever.

Statement

If it’s important that your car reflects your personal style and makes a statement about you, you may want to opt for something stylish and sporty, like a coupe. Minivans tend to imply that the driver is family-focused, while wagons and SUVs often look and feel more outdoorsy.

With so many choices on the market, it’s tough to know which vehicle will be the best fit in the long run. But as you consider what features are most important, you can find the car, truck, minivan, or SUV that will keep up with your lifestyle.

*Safety matters most, and the 2017 Honda Fit earned top marks with a 5-Star Overall Vehicle Score from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Government 5-Star Safety Ratings are part of the U.S. Department of Transportation’s New Car Assessment Program (www.safercar.gov). Model tested with standard side airbags (SAB).