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Probably everyone has heard such expressions as a class “A” or “C” car and so on. What does this mean, do you know? What class does your car belong to? After all, each type has its own parameters, sizes and features. They came to us from Europe, where they first appeared. Moreover, the classification at first was purely informative in nature, and was used only by journalists in auto publications. Then the manufacturers themselves began to adopt this division of cars. Today I will help you determine which class your car belongs to...
So, only six are considered the most common classes. They are designated by Latin letters, and begin at the beginning of the alphabet. These are A, B, C, D, E, F. However, there are others, little known. Read about them all below.
Class "A"
These are small city cars, subcompacts. In Russia they are usually called women's cars. Because girls often choose small cars. These little ones are designed for the city. In Europe they are called SUPER-MINI. They are designed for 2 – 3 people and have a small trunk. The engines are weak, usually from 0.6 to 1.2 liters, but very economical. Dimensions: length up to 3.6 meters, width up to 1.6 meters. The prices for these cars are the most affordable. Typical representatives: Chevrolet Spark, Kia Picanto, Daewoo Matiz, Peugeot 106.
J segment cars in the USSR and Russia
In 1957, the Moscow Automobile Plant produced the Moskvich-410/411/431 experimental car, an all-wheel drive modification of the Moskvich-402 production model. The car was built on a monocoque body, unlike GAZ models of an earlier period and SUVs produced around the world since the mid-twenties. Since Moskvich appeared long before the launch of the Cherokee XJ, perhaps it should be considered the world's first crossover.
SUVs in the USSR were also produced by the Ulyanovsk Automobile Plant (model 469 and others) and VAZ (Niva 2121 crossover). Nowadays, the production of updated versions of these SUVs continues.
Attempts to produce domestic SUVs were also made at other factories: for example, the Derways company produced the all-wheel drive Derways Cowboy (Derways 3131) of its own design in the city of Cherkessk. True, the car did not achieve much success in the market.
Class "B"
A small class of cars, but one of the most popular. Especially popular in developing countries. Currently, this type of car has evolved greatly. Many cars are close to the older class “C”, both in size and in layout and equipment. Designed for 4-5 people. Such cars feel very good both in the city and on the highway. The engines are already more powerful from 1.2 to 1.6 liters. Dimensions: length up to 3.9 meters (including evolution up to 4.2 meters), width up to 1.7 meters. Prices are higher than those of class “A”, but remain within the budget limit. Typical representatives: Volkswagen Polo, Peugeot 206, Ford Fusion, Kia Rio, Mercedes-Benz B-class
Volkswagen Up
The Up is the top-end and most stylish of its three sister cars (Skoda Citigo and SEAT Mii), thanks to its attractive front design and unique glass rear door. It's also the most customizable. In addition to the various trim levels, there are many combinations of alloy wheels, seat trims and interior add-ons to choose from. Despite the slightly higher cost, this car is widely popular and has won the trust of thousands of users around the world.
Under the hood
You can choose from four 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol engines: one with 59bhp. s., the other – 74 l. s., turbocharged version with a capacity of 89 hp. With. and finally, a 113 hp turbine. With.
The two low-power engines are a bit weak, so it's better to pay for the 89 hp version. With. It delivers much quicker acceleration, especially at low revs, making the Up a much more comfortable car to drive and a much more competent car for country driving.
All engines are available in Normal mode or Stop-Start mode, which improves fuel economy and reduces CO2 emissions by turning off the engine whenever you stop.
Engine 113 hp. With. offered exclusively in the Up GTI range and can accelerate the tiny car to 100 km. per hour in just 8.8 seconds. There is also a fully electric version called e-Up. Within the city limits the car will be very busy, although acceleration quickly ends above 65 km. at one o'clock.
Salon
No other city car in Russia - not even the Seat Mii and Skoda Citigo, with which the Up competes on the list of the best class A cars - can compare with the Up in terms of interior quality. Even the base trim levels feel surprisingly upscale inside and are very well put together.
The High Up model is even better, with high-gloss dashboard panels, chrome-trimmed switchgear and equally high-quality plastics. Although you won't find the dense, soft-touch materials found in the larger, more expensive Volkswagen Polo.
Good to drive and stylish inside, the VW Up is a great buy if you want a compact, economical city car.
Class "C"
Small middle class car. The most “variegated” in the entire classification. There are both bright representatives - for example, KIA CERATO, and cars that are stuck in the middle, they can be called B + or C -, for example, Nissan Tiida. The Volkswagen Golf is considered the ancestor and its technical excellence. Therefore, cars of this category are also called GOLF class cars. These are the most common cars in Europe; 30-35% of all Europeans travel in GOFL class cars. One can also say about the “C” class that it is developing greatly. Many cars already resemble “D” in size. However, in terms of equipment and price, it is a level lower. Designed for 5 people. Perfectly suited for the highway and the city, engines from 1.6 liters to 2.0 liters. The cost is in the average price range. Dimensions: length up to 4.3 meters (including evolution up to 4.5), width up to 1.8 meters. Typical representatives: - Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, Honda Civic, KIA Cerato, Toyota Corolla, Mercedes-Benz C-class.
More about the classification system
The generally accepted classification came to us from Europe. It gave marketers and, as already mentioned, journalists a convenient tool to identify and compare different cars.
This was not a sports classification, when all the parameters and characteristics of the car are described, and they are mandatory, because they are used to determine the group to which the vehicle belongs. It can rather be perceived as a qualitative, general description of the car, which does not mean that the car can be like this and only like this.
Today, the classes listed below are considered the most common. Of course, they do not cover all the cars we see on the pages of magazines and in life.
There are twenty classes, some of which are further divided into subclasses in order to more accurately take into account the characteristics and capabilities of the machine. So what categories of cars exist, and what types of cars are we familiar with?
Class "D"
Middle class cars. They are considered the most optimal both for transporting goods and in terms of capacity. There are real “aristocrats” that have premium interior trim, with inserts made from natural materials. The car feels confident in the city and on the highway, thanks to good suspension settings and high insulating interior materials. Designed for 5 people. Engines from 2.0 to 2.5 liters. The cost exceeds the average price indicators. Dimensions: length up to 4.7 meters, width up to 1.9 meters. Typical representatives are Volkswagen Passat, Ford Mondeo.
Skoda Citigo
The rating opens with the cheapest model – the Skoda Citigo, which combines a compact size, a spacious interior, low operating costs and a “Smart” design. There are four trim levels, including the base S, SE, top SE L and the stylish Monte Carlo model. The SE is the bare minimum choice because it comes standard with air conditioning and power windows.
Under the hood
The choice of engines is simple - 1.0-liter gasoline with varying power, 59 hp. With. and 74 l. With. The low power version is suitable for use if you drive mainly in populated areas. This is the most popular engine because of the value for money it offers. The car is not fast, but it accelerates smoothly and easily keeps up with city traffic. However, if you regularly hit motorways and A-class roads, the 74PS engine is worth considering. With. It's only available on the more expensive SE L trim, and offers noticeably stronger acceleration. An automatic (ASG) transmission is available with both engines.
Salon
As with other city cars in the ranking, the Citigo's interior is heavy on hard plastics. Still, the overall construction is solid, and the materials are textured in a way that doesn't feel too cheap.
The S and SE versions make do with a plastic steering wheel, which overemphasizes the Citigo's budget price tag. However, you can pay extra for a multifunction leather-wrapped steering wheel on SE and Color Edition models, a luxury touch that comes standard on higher trim levels. Monte Carlo versions get contrasting upholstery colors, chrome trim and a high-gloss instrument panel that helps decorate the interior.
Skoda Citigo is one of the best city cars; It's cheaper than the VW Up, yet great to drive, with ride quality that far exceeds its budget price. There's enough equipment for daily commuting around town, while the ergonomic boot makes the car a surprisingly practical option.
Class "E"
Upper middle class car. Because of the love of large businessmen for such cars, this type was called business class. Very high level of comfort, interior trim with wood and premium leather. A high level of sound insulation and personal air conditioning are not all the functions of these cars. Designed for 5 people, however, as a rule, only two ride in the back. Engines from 2.4 liters and above. Dimensions: length from 4.6 meters and above. The price is quite expensive. Let's say that cars are not for everyone. Typical representatives are Nissan Teana, Toyota Camry, Mercedes-Benz E-class, BMW 5.
Signs of a Class J car
In recent years, the SUV segment has been developing at a rapid pace, so apart from a station wagon body and high ground clearance, a J segment car has no permanent features. If previously the body and components of an SUV were installed on a frame, which served as another distinguishing feature of this class, now even a car with very good cross-country ability, falling under the category of SUVs by all criteria, can have a monocoque body. This design helps reduce weight and save fuel.
Renault Duster
By the way, it was the appearance in the early eighties of the first SUVs with a monocoque body that contributed to the development of a new type of car, which is now commonly called a crossover.
An SUV differs from a minivan, first of all, in that the latter’s body structure, as a rule, has a clearly visible engine compartment that protrudes forward. At the same time, the interior layout can be exactly the same as that of a minivan—J-segment SUVs with a flat floor (without a transmission tunnel) and three rows of seats are often found.
Class "F"
Exclusive and powerful cars. It is divided into two subspecies “F1” and “F2”.
"F1" - serial expensive cars. High level of comfort throughout and expensive finishing materials. The cost is very high. Length from 5 meters. Typical representatives are AUDI A8, Mercedes-Benz S-Class, BMW 7 Series, KIA Quoris.
“F2” - cars that are made by hand, often just one piece. This is no longer a means of transportation, but rather an investment of money. The brands include Ferrari, Bentley, Lamborghini.
These are the main classes of cars. But the distinction does not end there. Below I will list the less popular types.
Class "G"
This class includes cars with a coupe body type. Like the “F” class, they can be serial, this is “G1” (KIA CERATO KOUP), as well as premium coupes, which are produced manually, this is “G2” (Aston Martin)
Class "H"
Convertibles, roadsters. They differ, just like F and G classes. There are “H1”, serially assembled and expensive hand-assembled convertibles of elite models – “H2”.
Class "I"
These are mainly frame station wagons with all-wheel drive, a reinforced body kit, and high ground clearance. It should be noted that class “I” is the most unusual.
Class "K"
SUVs
“K1” - crossovers, crossovers, light SUVs. Designed for the city and light off-road. Almost useless in heavy mud.
"K2" - medium SUVs. The most versatile. You can drive in the city, although parking is a problem, but you can also go off-road.
"K3" - heavy SUVs. They are absolutely useless in the city; driving on small streets will be difficult, especially if there are traffic jams all around. But off-road it’s the best. It conquers almost any mud; if you make a pipe for exhaust gases on top, it can move through small swamps. Can be distinguished by large wheels, winches and additional lighting and roof mounts.
"K4" - pickups. Designed for farmers. It is convenient to transport various loads in the back, and the interior is quite comfortable. Over the past 5 years, popularity in Russia has only grown.
Class "L"
Minivans. Great popularity in Europe. The largest salon, from 5 to 7 seats. A bunch of different shelves and cabinets. The salon can be transformed in any way you like.
Class "M"
Commercial small class. These are mainly cars, as they are usually called in our country “heels”. Made on the basis of a class “B” or “C” passenger car. Designed for moving cargo around the city, where large trucks cannot pass.
And that's it now. I hope my article will be useful and informative for you.
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Mercedes-Benz car body numbers
Regardless of the modification of the car under the Mercedes-Benz brand (convertible with a hard roof, cargo or another), all bodies must be marked with a letter. Moreover, almost all cars were produced with a galvanized body. The Mercedes body number is required to distinguish different cars from different years. This applies to all models, regardless of the line.
For example, the Mercedes-Benz 200 passenger car with the designation W123 on the body was produced in the period 1973-1980. Accordingly, the W124 rolled off the assembly line in the period 1984-1990. In the same way, after the letter “W” there are digital designations indicating the remaining periods of vehicle production.
The markings of bodies produced after World War II are as follows:
- 1946-1952 – W191;
- 1955-1960 – W121;
- 1961-1968 – W110;
- 1969-1970 – W115;
- 1977-1979 – W-123;
- 1985-1994 – W124;
- 1996-1999 – W210;
- 2001-2007 – W203;
- 2008-2012 – W204.
It is necessary not to forget about the different digital body codes for different types of cars. Business and cargo classes have different markings. That is why you can easily distinguish a crossover from a jeep by the body number. The Mercedes body number above classifies the different years of production of sedans. New cars are marked in accordance with traditions. But there are also some exceptions to this rule.
The bodies were designated by letter markings depending on the type:
- "L" - van;
- "T" - van;
- "V" - limousine;
- "C" - coupe;
- "S" - station wagon;
- "A" - convertible;
- "R" - roadster;
- “VF” is a limousine again.
It is very important not to get confused and understand the difference between the letter markings of the body and the class. Difficulties often arise precisely because of the use of such a designation system for the body type/class of a vehicle of a certain model.
Conclusion
The rating allows you to learn more about cars that are considered status all over the world. Business class, when moving from middle class, can pleasantly surprise the owner with the level of comfort and power indicators. This niche is designed to bring the best out of travel.
Sources
- https://avtocity365.ru/chto-vybrat-rejtingi-avtomobilej/vybor-avtomobilya-biznes-klassa/
- https://AvtomobilAbc.ru/obzory-i-test-drajvy/avtomobili-biznes-e-klassa.html
- https://carsbiz.ru/select/avtomobili-e-klassa.html
- https://CarExtra.ru/rejtingi/avtomobili-e-klassa.html
- https://selich.ru/vybiraem-sedan-biznes-klassa-top-8-tseny-i-foto/
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Honda Jazz
The Jazz has long bridged the gap between small cars and mini-MPVs, and the latest version continues that tradition. It offers the best space and practicality in the B class, and it can surprise with its outstanding reliability. The Jazz was the first car to feature ultra-practical folding rear seats, which created space large enough for a bicycle or bulky flat furniture.
Engine, acceleration and gearbox
The 1.3 petrol may be faster than the 1.4 it replaces, but it's still slow compared to its rivals. It comes alive at the top of its rev range, but is in no hurry to get there. As a result, acceleration suffers unless you change gears - which you'll often be forced to do.
If you want a little more verve, an additional 30 HP. With. for a 1.5-liter engine they look quite tempting. It's worth remembering that this is still an old school naturally aspirated engine. It doesn't really come alive until over 3000 rpm. However, if you just want easy access to traction, you're better off looking at the Seat Ibiza or Volkswagen Polo with TSI engines.
CVT automatic transmissions should be avoided whenever possible. This allows the Jazz's engine to rev too quickly, exposing its poor refinement. It also makes the car feel slower when accelerating.
Suspension and ride comfort
At low speeds around town, the Jazz never calms down. Its suspension reacts sharply to cracks, potholes and damaged surfaces. Things improve at speed, but the expansion joints still feel too harsh from the driver's seat. Typically, the smaller the wheels, the better the Jazz handles corners.
Control
The Jazz isn't particularly fun to drive (it's certainly not in the same league as the Ford Fiesta), but it's at least safe and predictable. The steering is light, making it great for city driving, but lacks confidence in fast corners. The controls are quite precise.
Despite the stiff spring rate, the Jazz's tall body means it leans more than the Fiesta, Ibiza and Polo. However, this is never a cause for concern.
Noise and vibration
The Jazz's engines are smooth even at high revs, and gear changes are quick and precise. The car's pedal weight is also well rated, providing driver confidence.
However, the 1.3-litre engine's poor flexibility means that if you want to generate even moderately quick acceleration, it needs to be revved hard. This means a lot of noise. As the speed increases, it becomes increasingly distracting wind and road noise. The 1.5-litre unit is more flexible so there's no need to rev it up, but it still gets noisy if you need its full performance.
Audi A1 Sportback
The new Audi A1 Sportback offers a pleasant driving experience and has room for two adults to sit reasonably comfortably in the back. There's even a spacious trunk, correcting one of the criticisms of the original A1.
Audi A1 Sportback
However, this spacious interior comes at a price, as well as the quality of the materials inside. There are still some nice touches, but the A1 doesn't feel significantly better than its cheaper Volkswagen Polo sibling, which is why it doesn't come higher on this list.
Engine, acceleration and gearbox
Audi's labeling policy does not cover engine size, which is 94 hp. With. on the 1.0-liter. Version with 114 l. With. builds up a lot of noise from 2000rpm and has a real desire to keep pulling until the 6000rpm limiter. From 0-100 km. per hour at 9.1 s., this is one of the best indicators.
This 1.5-liter engine produces 148 hp. With. revs better, around 1500rpm, so not only is it faster, it's also more flexible. 2.0-liter 197 hp. With. also available.
Suspension and ride comfort
A smooth, controlled ride is new to the B-segment small car class. Luckily, the A1 and the closely related VW Polo are among those that offer just that - if you choose the right trim. The SE and Sport trims, equipped with 16-inch wheels and standard dynamic suspension, handle city roads very well; even the nastiest impacts do not irritate passengers. This is a calmer car than you Mini 5dr.
The same story is repeated on the motorway. The A1 is one of the calmest cars in its class. The package is complemented by good speed bump damping control so you never lose control of the ride.
It's available with larger 17-inch alloy wheels and a lower, firmer sports suspension that inevitably tightens up the handling. The ride over potholes in the city is more intense, but calms down at motorway speeds.
Control
The A1 is a tidy car to drive, similar to the Polo. Its steering is well rated, light around town but with plenty of weight added at higher speeds. These virtues are backed up by enough precision that you can position the nose of the car exactly where you want it on a twisty road.
If the turns are tight and you keep the pace high, you'll find a slight tendency to lean the car, but it's comparatively slight and offers plenty of opportunity. In fact, the A1 holds firm until you reach your limit of grip. Just turn off the accelerator.
The S line trim, with its firmer sports suspension, reduces lean, but does that make it the best car in the class? No. For something truly exciting, we recommend you get behind the wheel of a Fiesta or Ibiza. However, compared to the Mini, which is often perceived as a sporty small car, any A1 is noticeably better balanced and more playful.
Noise and vibration
The A1 does a good job of providing quiet and harmony on the move. Let's start with three-cylinder gasoline engines. They're not as muted as the 1.5-litre Mini Cooper or the 1.0 Ecoboost from the Ford Fiesta. You can feel a little vibration through the controls, but it's not much. Four-cylinder engines are generally smoother.
At top speed you will have difficulty hearing the engines. And while you can hear road and wind noise, it's not enough to be annoying on a long road - as long as you avoid the largest 18-inch wheels. Not only do they increase road roar, but they also cause more suspension noise. Generally speaking, the A1 is very similar to the Polo and exhibits less noise than other rivals such as the Mini.
The A1's manual gearbox has a clutch sharp enough to stall the engine if you try to pull away at very low revs until you get used to it, and its gearshift is long and jagged compared to the deft action of the Fiesta's manual gearbox. The brakes are progressive enough to bring the A1 to a stop with relative ease and smoothness.
