What is a sedan? According to standards in mainland China, sedans are categorized into micro, standard, mid-range, mid-to-high-end, and high-end classes. In contrast, international classification systems use the A, B, C, and D segment designations. Sedans can also be classified by functionality-such as standard sedans, station wagons, four-door coupes, sports cars, and convertibles-or by body configuration, such as four-door/five-seat, five-door hatchback, two-door/two-seat, or two-door/five-seat soft-top models. Classification standards are primarily based on parameters like wheelbase, engine displacement, and weight; generally, the further along the alphabetical sequence a car falls, the higher its level of luxury.
Under domestic classification principles, engine displacements are defined as follows: micro sedans (under 1.0L), standard sedans (1.0–1.6L), mid-range sedans (1.6–2.5L), mid-to-high-end sedans (2.5–4.0L), and high-end sedans (above 4.0L). Current common classification methods prioritize price while using technical specifications as secondary criteria: sedans priced above 200,000 RMB are considered mid-to-high-end; those between 150,000 and 200,000 RMB are mid-range; those around 100,000 RMB (or in the 100,000–150,000 RMB range) are standard; and those under 100,000 RMB are classified as micro or economy sedans.
According to German automotive classification standards, A-segment cars are small sedans, B-segment cars are mid-range sedans, C-segment cars are high-end sedans, and D-segment cars are luxury sedans. A00-class cars feature a wheelbase of 2.0 to 2.2 meters and an engine displacement of less than 1 liter; the Suzuki Alto is a prime example of this category. A0-class cars have a wheelbase of 2.2 to 2.3 meters and a displacement of 1.0 to 1.3 liters; the FAW-Volkswagen Jetta and Shanghai Volkswagen Polo are standout models in this segment. B-class mid-range sedans typically have a wheelbase of 2.45 to 2.6 meters and engine displacements ranging from 1.6 to 2.4 liters; in recent years, the B-class market has become a key battleground for domestic automakers, with models such as the Audi A4, Passat, Brilliance Zhonghua, and Chery Oriental Son (Dongfang Zhizi) all falling into this category. C-class high-end sedans feature a wheelbase of approximately 2.6 to 2.8 meters and engine displacements of 2.3 to 3.0 liters; the Audi A6 is undoubtedly the most famous C-class car in the domestic market. D-class luxury sedans are characterized by imposing styling, exceptionally spacious interiors, and powerful engines; they generally have a wheelbase exceeding 2.8 meters and a displacement of over 3.0 liters. Common examples of D-class cars include the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, BMW 7 Series, and Audi A8, as well as models from brands like Rolls-Royce and Bentley.
Of course, as the variety of models grows and choices regarding price, styling, and configuration become increasingly diverse, the boundaries between A-class, B-class, and C-class cars are becoming increasingly blurred. Therefore, vehicle classification should not be overly rigid and requires a flexible approach.