With ever-rising COE prices, it is crucial to make the right choice when buying a car. In Singapore, sedans and hatchbacks are especially popular – but which is better for you? In the past, hatchbacks were deliberately made small and boxy, but the differences between sedans and hatchbacks have narrowed a bit in recent times.

The main difference in the sedan vs hatchback discussion is the number of boxes that make up the vehicle body. Think of a car made up of boxes – sedans have three-box bodies, meaning they have one box in front for the engine, one in the middle for passengers, and the last at the back for the trunk. Hatchbacks, on the other hand, contain two boxes – one in front for the engine and the second one for passengers, with no trunk.

Hatchbacks should not be confused with coupes, which have two doors and a shorter, sportier look.

Choosing between a sedan and a hatchback involves more than just comparing how they look. Several practical considerations come into play for prospective car buyers. Let's break down these factors:

• Storage space and cargo

• Passenger space

• Size

• Fuel efficiency

• Cost and resale value

• Visibility

• Road noise

• Security

Hatchback vs sedan trunk space

Generally, the trunk space in a hatchback is more versatile. The hatchback has no divide between the trunk and the rear seats, and you can fold down the seats for more storage space. All sedan trunks have fixed dimensions.

Do you frequently go on shopping trips to NTUC or even to JB? These trips usually result in bigger-than-expected hauls, so the hatchback’s versatile cargo space will come in handy.

Passenger space

Sedans offer more legroom, especially for rear passengers. This is often due to their longer wheelbase and three-box design, which provides a dedicated area for passengers.

Hatchbacks, on the other hand, often offer more headroom for passengers in the back. Their two-box design and the way the roofline extends further back before sloping down for the hatch can create more vertical space for passengers.

Hatchbacks may feel more compact but work well for solo drivers, couples, or families with young children.

Size

Hatchbacks are generally smaller than sedans with a shorter wheelbase, and this can be an advantage in urban Singapore, where you’ll often have to navigate tight spaces such as condo, HDB and shopping centre car parks. Hatchbacks also have a tighter turning radius which allows for easier U-turns. Sedans are longer, and they may not fit as easily in some parking lots.

Fuel efficiency

Sedan models tend to look sleeker and more aerodynamic. They usually come with more powerful engines and the hybrid models tend to have better fuel economy on expressways. Hatchbacks, however, are generally smaller in size and lighter in weight. This makes them more suitable for city traffic as they require less energy to accelerate and maintain lower speeds. They often come with smaller engines, contributing to better mileage. It is worth noting that the newer sedans, particularly the hybrid models, have better fuel efficiency than the older ones.

Cost and resale value

Generally, hatchbacks tend to have a slightly lower upfront cost compared to sedans. For example, a new Honda Civic sedan costs $184,000 while the popular hatchback Honda Jazz Hybrid costs about $159,000 on sgcarmart. 

Furthermore, most hatchbacks tend to fall into COE Category A, while most sedans have bigger engines and are in Category B. This affects how much road tax you have to pay, with the road tax for Category B being almost double that of Category A. 

However, in the long term, sedans tend to fetch a higher resale price due to their perceived practicality and prestige, leading to consistent demand in the used car market. The broader appeal of sedans can also translate to a larger number of potential buyers when it's time to sell.

Visibility

Hatchbacks usually offer better rear visibility due to a larger rear window that extends down to the cargo area. The absence of a separate trunk lid can provide a wider and less obstructed view when looking directly behind the vehicle. This can be particularly helpful when reversing or steering in tight spaces.   

Sedans might feel more closed in due to the trunk, which results in a higher rear deck and a smaller rear window. This can limit the driver's direct line of sight backwards. But some newer models have rear camera features that eliminate blind spots in the back, and help guide the driver in low-light conditions and during parking.

Road noise

If you like a quiet ride, a sedan would suit you. Sedans are more insulated from road noise as they have a distinct enclosed trunk that is physically separated from the passenger cabin. This acts as a buffer, helping to isolate passengers from noise generated by the rear wheels and the road surface.

On the other hand, hatchbacks suffer from its connected cargo and passenger area, which allows in road noises. The large rear hatch, while providing practicality, can also lead to more road noise and vibrations entering the cabin, especially from the rear suspension and tires.   

There are other factors that affect the level of sound insulation, such as the different makes and models of both types of cars – premium models in either category will generally have better noise dampening than budget-oriented ones. Also, quieter tires can make a big difference.

Security

A sedan would appear safer as it has separate enclosed trunks which would hide your stuff from sight. The trunk is also stronger and offers better protection against forced entry. 

In contrast, the cargo areas in hatchbacks are visible. In Singapore, while vehicle theft might be less common, having a cargo cover or parcel shelf in the trunk of the hatchback would help deter theft. At the end of the day, it is important to lock your valuables or even better, not leave them in the car.

To summarise, these are the differences between a sedan and a hatchback:

• Sedans have a three-box design which includes the engine, cabin and trunk. While hatchbacks have a two-box layout, with no box for the trunk at the back. 

• For passenger space, the sedan is more roomy and has more leg space. But the hatchback tends to have more vertical room in the back. 

• Size wise, the sedan tends to be longer than a hatchback which makes it a bit harder to park in Singapore’s car parks. The hatchback’s smaller size makes it easier to turn and manoeuvre around. 

• Hatchbacks tend to be more economical for driving in Singapore, as they are smaller and lighter than most sedans. But newer sedan hybrid models can compete with hatchbacks in terms of fuel efficiency.

• Sedans tend to be a bit more expensive in price than hatchbacks, but they tend to keep their value in the resale market.

• Rear visibility tends to be lower in sedans as they do not have larger rear windows, but a number of sedan models come with a rear camera, and there is the option to install a rear camera yourself.

• Sedans tend to have better sound insulation which means a quieter ride, while hatchback drivers may experience more engine or road noise.

• Finally, a sedan has a closed trunk space which deters theft. But hatchback drivers can use a parcel shelf to cover up their cargo.

If you are considering something more in your daily drive, a luxury sedan is the answer. These sedans, usually made in European countries, offer more than the standard, everyday workhorse sedans:

• Premium design and materials: Craftsmanship and high-quality materials elevate the sensory experience within the car.

• Cutting-edge technology: Luxury sedans often debut the latest automotive technologies, including advanced infotainment systems with large displays, sophisticated driver-assistance systems such as adaptive cruise control and innovative features like gesture control or augmented reality displays.

• Enhanced performance and driving dynamics: Luxury sedans often offer more powerful engines and sophisticated chassis and suspension systems, providing a more enjoyable driving experience.

• Prestige: In Singapore, where cars are regarded more as a luxury than just a mode of transport, a luxury sedan is seen as a symbol of success and prestige.

How do you decide which type of car is for you? 

If you are:

A family of four with regular road trips to Malaysia:

We’d recommend a sedan. The extra trunk space, the quieter highway driving, and the additional comfort and leg room means a happier family on road trips.

A young couple living in a condo:

We’d recommend a Hatchback. The hatchback has versatile trunk space, and its smaller build makes it easier to manoeuvre in the condo car park.

Working as a private hire driver on the side:

We’d recommend a sedan. A sedan is more roomy and provides a quieter and more comfortable ride. Sedans are often seen as more traditional and professional-looking, which some passengers might prefer. The separate luggage space will also be an advantage for picking up passengers with luggage. 

A weekend driver or single commuter:

We’d recommend a hatchback as it is lower in upfront cost and the storage space will come in handy for weekend activities. The flexible cargo and seating space will be useful when fetching people or buying stuff. The car will be easier to handle in traffic, and for parking in most spaces in Singapore.

So, which is better, hatchbacks or sedans? There is unfortunately no one-size-fits-all answer. Do consider your needs carefully before you purchase your car.