City car, saloon or SUV: which type to choose
Last updated: 19 June 2026
The right body type depends on your real needs, not trends. Compare city cars, saloons, estates and SUVs on cost, space and running costs.
Start from your real needs
Choose by how you actually drive — daily distance, passengers, parking, terrain and budget — not by what is fashionable. The cheapest car to own is the one that fits your life.
City cars
Small, cheap to buy, insure and park, and efficient in town. Less comfortable on long motorway trips and tighter on space, but ideal for urban use and new drivers.
Saloons and hatchbacks
A balanced all-rounder: comfortable, efficient and practical for most families, usually cheaper to buy and run than an equivalent SUV.
Estates (wagons)
The space of an SUV with car-like running costs and handling. Excellent for families and big loads if you do not need extra ground clearance.
SUVs and crossovers
High driving position, space and a feeling of safety, plus all-wheel-drive options. But they usually cost more to buy, fuel and insure, and use more tyres and brakes due to weight.
Match running costs to budget
Bigger and heavier generally means higher fuel, tyre and insurance costs. Be honest about whether you need the size or just want it.
Whatever you pick, inspect it
Each type has typical weak points — clutches on city cars, suspension and brakes on heavy SUVs. A CarGuard AI inspection screens the specific car's condition before you buy.