How do you define a saloon car?
A saloon car is a type of car with four doors and a separate enclosed boot.
Unlike a hatchback, where the boot and rear window lift together, a saloon has a three-box shape:
The engine at the front
The passenger cabin in the middle
The boot at the rear
This gives saloons their longer, more formal shape and is one reason they are often associated with comfort, refinement and business use.
At LeaseCar, saloons are a popular choice for drivers who want something practical but more polished than a typical hatchback.
Key takeways
A saloon car has four doors and a separate boot
It usually offers a more refined look and feel than a hatchback
Saloons are often popular with business users, motorway drivers and families
They differ from SUVs by sitting lower to the ground and usually focusing more on comfort and efficiency than height or bulk
A saloon can be a great lease choice if you want space, comfort and a smart design
What makes a car a saloon?
A saloon is defined by its shape and layout. Typical features include, four doors, a separate boot compartment, tow rows of seats, a lower driving position and a longer body shape.
In the UK, “saloon” is the usual term. In the US, the same type of car is normally called a "sedan" or "passenger car".
Differences between a saloon and a hatchback:
Mainly, the rear of the car. A hatchback will have the boot and rear window open together, instead of a separate boot/trunk lid. Hatchbacks tend to have a more upright read design and many report that they're a bit easier to park. Hatchbacks are often chosen for practicality and urban driving. The rear-loading gate on a hatchback also makes it a more flexible option for loading bulky items, whereas a saloon usually feels smarter and more comfortable on longer journeys.
Differences between a saloon and an SUV:
SUVs sit higher off the ground, which can offer easier access into and out of the car, they usually feel more spacious and suit drivers who prefer a higher position. Saloons site lower to the ground, tend to feel smoother and more stable on the road, and frequently offer better efficiency than a similar-sized SUV.
Why choose a saloon car?
Saloons appeal to drivers for a number of good reasons:
Comfortable on long journeys: Their shape and driving position often make them well suited to motorway driving.
Smart, professional look: Saloons are often seen as more formal and more executive than hatchbacks or SUVs.
Good balance of space and refinement: You still get rear seats and usable boot space, but with a more polished design.
Efficient to run: Compared with larger SUVs, saloons with sleeker aerodynamics can offer a better balance of comfort and running costs.
Who is a saloon car best for?
A saloon may suit you if you:
Do a lot of motorway miles
Want a car that feels comfortable and refined
Prefer a smart, professional look
Need a practical car but do not want an SUV
Carry passengers regularly but do not need seven seats
A saloon may be less suitable if you:
Need maximum boot access for bulky items
Want a high driving position
Do most of your driving in tight urban spaces
Are saloons still popular?
Yes. Although SUVs now dominate the market, saloons still have a strong place. They remain popular with drivers who prefer a more traditional car shape, need comfort for longer journeys or to project a more professional, executive image . . . and still retain flexibility as a family car.
What are the best saloon cars?
Successful brands will continue to manufacture and develop the timeless and sophisticated saloon. They are celebrated by the likes of Audi and Mercedes, as well as created by companies such as Kia and Hyundai. But, what are some of the most popular saloon cars?
BMW 5 Series saloon
This vehicle is one of the most well-rounded saloon cars on the market. With comfort, technology, space and practicality all rating highly, this model is also popular for general driving pleasure. Available in petrol and diesel engine models, it’s a dynamic car which is perfect for any purpose.
Mercedes E-Class saloon
The stylish exterior of the E-Class is equally as elegant as its classy interior. Designed with comfort in mind, the car is made with quality materials for a modern, deluxe appearance. The diesel range is especially popular, for the vehicles are economical but very powerful. Innovative and modern, technology meets luxury in this stylish saloon.
Audi A3 saloon
The Audi A3 has ranked above competitors for its minimalist look and incredible design. The car rivals the likes of the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes C-Class, as it’s a great all-rounder and a pioneer in compact executive saloons. Smaller than the standard saloon, the vehicle has been designed with a spacious interior and is popular for the range of engines available - from economy to power and general practicality.
Volvo S90 saloon
This particular design is quite unusual for a saloon, with a more boxy appearance opposed to the traditional rounded exterior. Nonetheless, the car is sleek and sophisticated with a luxurious interior, centred around an impressive 9-inch touchscreen system. The perfect car for those drivers looking for a supreme combination of overall appearance and comfort levels, the vehicle looks striking after dark with its ‘Thor’s Hammer’ headlights.
Mazda 3 saloon
A more unusual choice of family car, the Mazda is renowned for its safety. At first glance, you’ll notice the rounded, stylish exterior and find that the sophisticated appearance matches the smart interior. It’s economical, renowned for its reliability and ranks highly for driver satisfaction.
What is a super saloon car?
A super saloon is basically a more powerful saloon car. It follows the same specification of having a separate boot compartment, although super saloons have a higher amount of horsepower. The current market for super saloons is extremely competitive, with German manufacturers usually coming out on top. With power and performance the key factors to distinguish a saloon from a super saloon, which super saloons are the best?
BMW M3 saloon
Described as a high-performance version of the 3 series, the BMW M3 is considered one of the best super saloons on the market. It was designed for racing enthusiasts with an M TwinPower Turbo engine and is praised for its incredible acceleration and handling.
Mercedes-AMG C63 S
The twin-turbocharged V8 engine is a force to be reckoned with in this saloon. It’s not a quiet vehicle, an aspect which drivers argue is part of its old-school charm, however, its handling is steady and accurate for such a powerful vehicle - partly why this ranks as one of the best.
Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio
This Italian powerhouse is up there in quality with its German competitors. This super saloon’s sleek appearance looks striking when it glides on the road and has been commended for its composition, handling and overall driving pleasure.
Leasing a saloon car
Intrigued? Check our list of the best saloon cars of 2026, and our latest hot leasing offers on saloons. Or if you are undecided, feel free to call our friendly team on 0344 745 1818 and we'll be happy to discuss which style of car will best suit your needs.