Cars with Maximum Wheelbase Benefit in Pakistan

Automobile development is a constant process of evolution. Since their introduction, cars have changed significantly in terms of looks and performance.

Over the years, technological improvements— such as smaller & fuel-efficient engines— have allowed designers to maximize the interior space by enhancing the wheelbase since a longer hood is no longer needed to accommodate a large engine. Stretching the distance between front and rear wheels not only allows for a larger footprint, resulting in enhanced ride comfort and better road stability but also increased interior space for the occupants with generous headroom & legroom as well as more luggage space.

Related: Advantages of Longer Wheelbase

Keep in mind wheelbase is simply the distance between a car’s front and rear axles. Length, on the other hand, is calculated from the foremost point to the rearmost point of the car. The wheelbase is measured from the center of the wheels and serves as an indication of the level of cabin space for the given external size.

It is interesting to note that small hatchbacks of the modern era have a larger wheelbase than expensive luxury sedans of the past. This is exactly why if you get in an old car from the past, you will feel cramped inside despite the vehicle having significantly large outer dimensions. Compared to this, newer cars despite their smaller size are much more spacious from the inside. This is simply achieved through an increased wheelbase which then allows for a more raking windshield angle and thus a generous interior space.

2nd gen Honda Accord (2,450 mm wheelbase)

8th gen Suzuki Alto (2,460 mm wheelbase)

For example, the second-generation Honda Accord (1982-86) had a wheelbase of 2,450 mm whereas the current 8th-generation Suzuki Alto that we have here offers a 2,460 mm wheelbase. This is why the 660cc Alto feels so spacious inside compared to any other car in the market. Let us now have a look at the passenger cars available here and compare their wheelbase to see which one technically offers the best interior space.

Hatchbacks

As you can see from the table above, United Bravo has the smallest wheelbase whereas, Prince Pearl has comparatively better which is why its interior feels relatively spacious. Similarly, the Kia Picanto and Suzuki Cultus are considered rivals but you might have seen many people complaining about the cramped interior of the Picanto which has a smaller wheelbase than the Cultus. Lastly, the Suzuki Alto boasts the most generous wheelbase which is even more than that of the new Swift.

Sedans

In sedans, the Proton Saga has the least significant wheelbase which is almost as same as that of the Suzuki Alto. Moving up in the B-segment offerings, Changan Alsvin and Toyota Yaris are out shadowed by the 6th gen Honda City with its 2,600 mm wheelbase. In C-segment sedans, the 11th-generation Honda Civic wins whereas both Toyota Corolla and Hyundai Elantra (as well as the old 10th gen Civic) all have the 2,700 mm long wheelbase. In the D-segment sedans, the Hyundai Sonata has the most generous wheelbase compared to the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry.

So if interior space is your priority, then Suzuki Alto is the perfect choice among hatchbacks. Despite its smaller dimensions & 660cc engine, it offers the best interior space. Among B-sedans, the Honda City wins big whereas the 11th Gen Honda Civic has the largest wheelbase among the C-segment sedan offerings. Lastly, the Hyundai Sonata is the ideal choice among D-sedans as it’s not only the least expensive of the lot, it has all the bells & whistles and boasts the most generous wheelbase too.

UsmanAnsari

A computer animation professional with over 23 years of industry experience having served in leading organizations, TV channels & production facilities in Pakistan. An avid car enthusiast and petrolhead with an affection to deliver quality content to help shape opinions. Formerly written for PakWheels as well as major publications including Dawn. Founder of CarSpiritPK.com