Complete guide to vehicle types

Hatchbacks are passenger cars with three or five doors and defined by a rear hatch or liftgate for the boot that integrates storage and passenger space into a single area. Unlike sedans, which feature a separate boot, hatchbacks allow for more versatile cargo loading. Rear seats can also often be folded flat, creating additional space for larger items.

One example of a hatchback is the Kia Picanto, a compact vehicle that is easy to park, highly fuel efficient, and reliable. The K4 Hatch provides more space and the latest in driving technology, giving drivers the practicality of a hatch with a refined driving experience.

Hatchbacks are popular with city drivers and commuters because of their compact size and small footprint, providing great maneuverability in areas of limited space. They are also well suited to singles and couples who want flexible cargo space without switching to a larger SUV.

Sports utility vehicles (SUV) have quickly become Australia’s most popular vehicle type. They stand out with their higher driving position and greater ground clearance compared to sedans or hatchbacks. This allows for a better view of the road and makes it easier to get in and out of the vehicle.

Many SUVs also offer off-road capabilities and flexible seating and cargo options, including fold‑down seats that adapt to passenger or storage needs. They also come in many sizes to suit different lifestyles. 

Some SUVs are smaller, such as the small SUV Kia Seltos, or the light SUV Kia Stonic, both of which have 5 seats and can be ideal for urban living. The Kia Sportage is a popular medium-sized SUV with also 5 seats, while offering a little more space and versatility. And for growing families, the large, stylish 7-seater Kia Sorento can meet all your people and cargo transport needs.

SUVs can also be all-electric, such as the upper large SUV Kia EV9. The EV9 comes with 7 seats as standard, or as a 6-seat configuration with the soon to come luxurious EV9 GT, showcasing Grant Turismo aesthetics and performance.

When you need maximum seating and comfort while traveling, a people mover is the way to go.

People movers, or family wagons, are designed to maximise passenger capacity and comfort. They can usually carry up to eight people, making them the go‑to choice for large families or groups. Sliding side doors make it easy to enter and exit in tight carpark spaces, while cabins are designed for flexible seating arrangements. Even with all rows in use, there is typically ample boot space.

The Kia Carnival is one family wagon that has been upgraded to a GUV, or Grand Utility Vehicle. It boasts premium styling alongside a generous leg, head and shoulder room, and a smooth and comfortable car-like driving experience.

For buyers who need multiple child seats, isofix and anchor points, frequent group transport, or maximum legroom, a people mover can provide an ideal blend of spacious seating and storage space.

With efficient and eco-friendly powertrains, EVs and hybrids are driving the future of mobility.

Electric Vehicles (EVs), and hybrid cars are not defined by their body style, but rather by what powers their movement. EVs run solely on electric power, while hybrids combine petrol engines with electric motors for improved efficiency.

EVs and hybrid vehicles are becoming more and more popular, with the market experiencing rapid global growth due to increased consumer demand and a bigger variety of models becoming available. This includes EVs and hybrid vehicles in many different body types, such as sedans, hatchbacks, utes and SUVs.

Models like the fully electric Kia EV5 mid-size SUV and the large Kia Carnival HEV (Hybrid Electric Vehicle) appeal to drivers who value the growing shift towards sustainability and innovative driving experiences.

If you’d like to learn more about electric vehicles and hybrids, read our article on the different types of electric and hybrid vehicles and how they work.