Test Drive Checklist
Choose between sedan, SUV, hatchback, pickup, coupe, wagon, minivan or convertible based on how you actually use a car. Quick 8-question quiz returns 2–3 body styles that fit.
Test Drive Checklist
14-point scored test drive checklist with verdict.
How It Works
Each body style is scored against your daily commute, family size, cargo needs, off-road frequency, climate and budget. The top-matching styles surface with rationale.
How to Use This Calculator
- Answer 8 quick questions about your driving habits.
- Calculator returns ranked body styles and example models.
Worked Example
Reference Table
Minivans win on family interior efficiency per dollar but suffer from social stigma — at the same price an SUV trades cargo for image.
| Body style | Best for |
|---|---|
| Sedan | Daily commuters, low cargo needs, MPG priority |
| Hatchback | City driving, occasional cargo, MPG priority |
| Wagon | Cargo without SUV height — rare in US market |
| Compact SUV | Small family, mixed use, winter weather |
| Mid-size SUV | 3-row, growing family, road-trip ready |
| Pickup | Towing, hauling, work truck, AWD without SUV |
| Minivan | 3+ kids, max interior space, best resale per dollar |
| Coupe / Convertible | Pleasure driving, weekend, no rear-seat needs |
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I get a pickup just for the bed?
If you load the bed more than 4× per month, yes. Less than that, a hitch on an SUV or rented truck for the rare big haul costs less.
Are minivans cheaper to own than SUVs?
Often yes — by 10–20% over 5 years on the same passenger capacity. They depreciate faster but cost less new and have lower insurance.
