What is a saloon car?

Defining what a saloon car is can often be confusing, especially with the word 'saloon' itself where it can sometimes be referenced as a public room/building or more amusing an old American western bar. To add to the confusion saloon cars are often referred to as sedans, being what saloon cars are called in America. By definition, a saloon car that can seat four or more people has a fixed roof, and a boot hinged from the bottom of the rear window that is separated from the rear seats. Where car types such as a Hatchback will have their boot hinged at the top of the window. Saloon cars are typically larger than your average hatchback and smaller than the average SUV, depending on spec and make, saloon cars are usually stylish, well-fitted, and spacious inside. A good option for those looking to move on from a hatchback or downsize from an SUV. Saloon cars have become increasingly popular due to improved styling and technology which has allowed them to progress into some of the most luxurious cars on the market. The best way to know if a saloon suits your needs is to drive one.


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What does a saloon car look like?

The saloon car is classically long, sleek, and low to the ground, usually distinctly different from a hatchback, estate, or SUV, where a saloon car has a more pronounced 'three-box' shape with separate ‘boxes’ for the engine at the front, the passenger compartment in the middle and the boot at the back.

Type of Saloon cars

You will find a crossover with some car types such as saloons and coupes as they aren't too dissimilar. Coupes technically sit in their own category, however, due to some characteristics there is an overlap between some saloon cars and coupes. For example, coupe cars are also saloon cars when the boot is hinged below the rear window. A good example of this is the BMW 4 series or Audi A5.

A factor that helps in distinguishing between a coupe and a saloon car is that coupes are usually two-door, however, this has become a little more confusing with manufacturers releasing sleeker saloon cars that have four doors and referring to them as 'four-door' coupes, an example of this being the four-door version of the BMW 4 series.

There are many saloon cars on the market, some of the most popular are the BWM 3 and 4 series, Mercedes E Class, Audi A4, and Audi A5. The four-door configuration allows for easy accessibility which makes these models, particularly sought-after compared to two-door coupe versions. We offer many options if you want to test drive a saloon, contact us to find out more.

Other body types you should consider

If you are undecided about a saloon as your next car then why not consider a Coupe, Estate, or Hatchback?

Coupe Cars

Coupes aren't too dissimilar to Saloon cars. The main difference is the size of the vehicle, coupes are typically shorter and focused on a sportier driving experience. Coupe derives from the French verb 'couper' which means 'to cut', and this is in reference to the rear of the car being 'cut' to reduce the overall length. Click here to read more about Coupe cars at carverse.

Estate Cars

An Estate car is essentially a stretched hatchback or a saloon car with the roof extended over the boot, they offer sleek looks whilst also keeping the practicality and storage of a Hatchback and SUV, with the extra storage space in the boot. Click here to read more about Estate Cars at carverse.

Hatchback Cars

Hatchbacks are small and practical cars, that are usually easier to drive, park, and maneuver in tight spaces and have relatively good boot space adding to their practicality. There are many different types of hatchbacks such as, family hatchbacks, town run-around, or even hot hatches. Click here to read more about hatchback cars at carverse.

SUV Cars

SUVs are generally based on a hatchback, but with slight alterations to the size and ride height of the car. SUVs sit a bit higher than hatchbacks which makes them generally easier to get in and out of. An SUV may be a preferable choice if you prefer a higher driving position too. Click here to read more about SUV cars at carverse.

Find your perfect used saloon

There is a lot of variety of used saloons on the market which can give you a good selection to choose from. When searching for a used saloon there are some things you may want to consider to help you make an informed decision. You should consider things such as your typical trip lengths, interior requirements, storage space, and usage - this will determine the size, fuel type, and trim level you will need from a used saloon. You can get used saloons in a few sizes, from small to large. We can help you to make your decision by offering you test drives in any of our used saloons.

Here at carverse we have a range of used saloons available for you to buy. If you are looking for your next used saloon you can browse our forecourt online or by visiting our dealership. Alternatively, you can request a callback, or phone us on 01438 328 123 to enquire about a used saloon.