What Is The Meaning Of ‘Compact’ Car, And How Does It Differ From ‘Small’ And ‘Midsize’?

When shopping for a new vehicle, you’ve probably encountered the salesperson asking what segment you’re looking to buy into. If you meet his question with a confused look, the follow-up will probably be “what type of car are you looking at?” If your answer is “a small car”, you’re likely to be confronted with a question on compact, small, or midsize cars, leaving you to ponder, “What’s a compact car?”

These days, buying a car is not as straightforward as it was a few years ago, especially because there are so many segments and categories and body types to consider. And let’s not get started on when the salesperson asks what purpose you need a car for! That’s a story for another day.

But in all seriousness, the categories we place cars in aren’t arbitrary. They are defined and governed by regulatory bodies like the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The measurements and metrics that are in place classify vehicles according to a category based on metrics such as interior volume, gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), and exterior dimensions – among many others. This is the foundation of what we’re diving into: what sets compact cars apart from small and midsize vehicles? And are there even differences between the three?

Car Segments According To Regulatory Bodies

Someone Has To Make The Rules

Before we get into the differences between the three body types in question, let’s first look at what the NHTSA and EPA are because these bodies play a crucial role in vehicle classification. Both regulatory bodies were established to address public safety and environmental concerns, with these directly impacting how vehicles are designed and built. Together, their regulations define key characteristics of compact, small, and midsize cars, such as weight, engine size, safety features, and fuel economy, directly impacting how manufacturers develop and market these vehicles. And, ultimately, how a vehicle is categorized.

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)

Established in 1970 under the Highway Safety Act, the NHTSA’s primary purpose is to save lives, prevent injuries, and reduce the costs associated with motor vehicle crashes in America. Among its key functions is the continuous development and enforcement of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS), which are the regulatory standards that a vehicle’s components must meet.

As far as vehicle categorization is concerned, the NHTSA classifies vehicles into broad groups; however, it adopts size sub-categories based on design intent and gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR). These also coincide with interior volume metrics.

United States Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA)

The EPA was created by President Richard Nixon in 1970 as an independent executive agency of the federal government. The body’s core purpose is to protect human health and the environment through rules and regulations. In the automotive sector, the EPA sets the emission standards for the various vehicle categories.

While vehicle classes are determined by the Interior Volume Index (IVI) – consisting of passenger compartment volume and cargo volume – the EPA’s efficiency indexes are also brought into the equation, with each category having its own requirements that must be met. Due to their lighter weight potential, smaller vehicles tend to face stricter per-vehicle efficiency targets.

Differences Between Compact, Small, and Mid-Size Segments

What Is A Compact Car?

For many, the compact segment is the sweet spot in the automotive space. These vehicles are not too big nor too small, and offer just enough room for passengers. The total interior volume (cabin and cargo space) for a sedan to be considered a compact car is 100-109 cubic feet, while station wagons gain the compact badge with a total interior volume of less than 130 cubic feet. Compact SUVs and crossovers have an exterior length of around 170-185 inches. Compact trucks have a GVWR under 6,000 lbs.

The big differentiators between compact cars, small, midsize cars are more interior room and generally better highway stability. Versus midsize vehicles, smaller cars are more fuel-efficient and have a lower starting price.

Pros:

• Affordability
• Maneuverability
• Wide range of body styles

Cons:

• Possible limited rear legroom
• Lower towing capacity vs midsize models

“Modern compact, and even sub-compact hatches and sedans offer surprising space and versatility, making them ideal for the modern family. But within these segments, there are vehicles that still offer driving enjoyment.”

– Roger Biermann, Managing Editor, DrivingOnRoad

What Is A Small Car?

Small cars can easily be mistaken for a compact car, but they are indeed different. According to the EPA, sedans with an interior volume of 85-99 cu-ft are regarded as ‘small’, while this categorization falls on subcompact SUVs under 170 inches long and a GVWR under 4,500 lbs. Hatchbacks are generally the dominant body style in this space, but it’s not uncommon to include SUVs and sedans, too.

Pros:

• Low operating costs
• Easy parking
• Minimal environmental impact

Cons:

• Limited cargo
• Noisier rides
• Fewer features

“Small cars are great – they provide legal ways of exploiting a car’s full potential, without the risks of serious injury and death when things go wrong at high speed. It’s a case of low risk, high reward.”

– Roger Biermann, Managing Editor, DrivingOnRoad

What Is A Midsize Car?

The EPA classifies midsize vehicles as ones with an interior volume of 110-119 cu-ft, and wagons at 130-159 cu-ft. Midsize SUVs’ lengths are between 185-200 inches and can seat up to seven passengers. As far as trucks are concerned, the GVWR is between 6,000 and 8,500 lbs.

Pros:

• Better versatility
• Good resale value
• Modern/advanced tech

Cons:

• Higher fuel and maintenance costs

“When car enthusiasts talk about the hottest new cars they’d love to drive, these conversations tend not to include non-luxury mid-size sedans. This segment is often known for being the most boring and least enthusiast-focused in the industry. However, in the last few years, there have been a few bright spots.”

– Jared Rosenholtz, Editor-At-Large, DrivingOnRoad

In Summary

Navigating the automotive landscape is no longer as easy as it once was, especially with the proliferation of vehicle categories – seemingly a new one emerging every year. But as much as the classifications, measured and led by the EPA and NHTSA, are about more than just a vehicle’s size, they’re also a reflection of how consumer demands are changing. However, the categories are continuously being adjusted, and the lines are being blurred with every new amendment.

For now, though, there are clear differences between compact cars and small and mid-size options, and these often offer the best balance for those who want comfort, practicality, and capability.

FAQs

What defines a compact car?

As per EPA standards, a compact car has an interior volume of 100-109 cubic feet for sedans and under 130 cu-ft for wagons. The length typically ranges between 170-185 inches.

Is an SUV a compact car?

Yes, SUVs can be classified as a compact car, provided the length is around 180 inches. Larger SUVs will fall into midsize or full-size categories.

Is a Toyota Camry considered a compact car?

No. The Toyota Camry is a mid-size sedan, given its interior volume of 110-119 cu-ft and length of 193 inches.

Is a Honda Civic considered a compact car?

Its interior volume of 100-109 cu ft classifies the Honda Civic as a compact sedan.

Sources: EPA, NHTSA