What is the Average Car's Width? (Average Width by Class)

The cars on today’s roads are wider than they have ever been. Car size keeps increasing, but the roadway doesn’t. What is the width of an average car? Will it continue growing?

This article will examine the car's average width and length. To find out how wide some models are, we also look at them.

What is the average car's width?

Average car width is 5.8 feet. However, it varies depending upon the car you're driving. It’s also relative to what safety features are added and the level of aerodynamic performance that is included. 

The Chevy Spark measures 5.2 feet across. Ram 3500, with dual rear wheels, has the largest title. It is 8.7 feet in width, including mirrors. 

Calculating the Average Car Width based on Class

1. Sedans

You can choose from a variety of sizes for sedans, including economy and full-sized. Sedans are typically equipped with four doors, and most have large cargo compartments. On average, the compact sedan or small sedan will measure 5' 10" in width. 

Mid-size sedans measure approximately 6 feet across. Larger sedans, such as full-size and large models, will measure over 6 feet. 

• Chevy Spark: 5.2 ft. 
• Honda Accord: 6 ft. 
• Dodge Charger: 6.2 feet 

Related: Economy Vs. Compact Car Differences (& Which is better?)

2. Station Wagons/Hatchbacks

Station wagons offer a great compromise between an SUV and sedan. With the hatchback design, there’s often more cargo space than with a sedan. The average hatchback, or station wagon small size is 6.1 inches wide. 

The large station wagon or hatchback doesn’t grow much in width, at about 6.2 feet. Only it tends get shorter. 

• Volvo V90: 6.3 ft.
• Audi A6 Allroad: 6.2 ft.
• Subaru Outback: 62.5 ft. 

3. SUVs

The sport utility vehicle is taller and offers more ground clearance than your average car, but it isn’t necessarily wider. This all depends on the type of SUV that you drive. 

A compact crossover or SUV will measure approximately 6 feet in width. You can expect slightly more space for parking in garages if you choose a midsize SUV. Full-size SUVs will be the largest, with plenty of space for passengers. 

• Toyota RAV4 6 feet
• Honda Pilot: 6.5 ft. 
• Cadillac Escalade: 6.10 ft. 

4. Sport Cars

Your average car will offer more power than your sports car. The sports car looks great and it is one of the fastest cars on the road. There’s also a variety of sizes related to the sports car.

You can expect a sports car to measure between 5.7 feet and 6.5 inches in length, depending on its size. A sports sedan will be more like a full-size sedan that a small car. This category also includes supercars, which are usually parked in garages. However, they don't tend to have a lot of attention because people rarely care about how big they are.

• Chevy Corvette: 6.3 ft. 
• Porsche 911: 6.1 ft.
• Dodge Charger: 6 3/8 ft. 
• Lamborghini Aventador: 6.7 ft. 

5. Pickup Trucks

There are two options for a pickup truck: one with two doors and one with a bench seat, or it can have four doors that accommodate six people. The width of the pickup can be affected by how big or small the truck's bed is. 

While smaller trucks may be as small at 6.3 feet, a larger truck will be easily 6.8 feet. If the truck is a dual-wheel design, it’s going to be the widest of the bunch.

• Ford Ranger: 6.5 ft.
• Chevy Colorado: 6.2 ft.
• Ram 3500 Dually 8.7 feet

6. Vans

You can find vans in different widths depending on what purpose they serve. If it’s a passenger van, there needs to be room to hold people, so the width might be around 6.7 feet.

A cargo van is used for carrying goods. You might see a cargo van that measures 6.8ft. 

• Honda Odyssey: 6.5 ft.
• Ram ProMaster Cargo: 6 feet.
• Ford Transit 350: 6.7 feet 

Related: What Does A Car Weight? (Average weight by car type)

How do I find car width?

1. VIN Decoder

Your vehicle's VIN can reveal a lot information about it. A VIN decoder will allow you to see all details about your vehicle.

The car's dimensions can be found, along with its width. This decoder will also provide information about the engine, transmission, color, safety features, and standard features of the vehicle. 

2. Get in touch with your local dealer

Ask the dealer for the vehicle's width before you buy it. If you park a lot, this is something to think about. A specification sheet can be provided by the dealership, which will include all dimensions.

Local dealers should be able and willing to assist you even if the car you are looking for isn't available. It isn’t difficult for them to pull the new car information sheet on it, even after several years. 

3. Measure your car

You can also manually measure your car if everything fails. The accuracy of your measurements will affect the time it takes to complete this step. 

With your tape measure, you will start out at the driver’s side door. A friend can help you to run a tape measurement underneath the vehicle on the opposite side. Place the tape measure onto the passenger side of your vehicle to determine its width.

Don’t forget that the width of the mirrors is included with this measurement. However, it’s good to know how far out the mirrors go as well, especially if you need to park in tight spaces. 

4. You can use the car valuation site

You can easily access all the information you need about your car by using a website that offers vehicle valuations. These aren’t just for figuring out what your car is worth based on features, mileage and age.

You will be able to get more precise results if you are able to enter your VIN. You should still be able simply to enter your VIN to have a rough idea of the dimensions. 

Do the mirrors count in vehicle width?

The typical car measurement doesn’t include the size of the mirrors. When you measure the vehicle, you don’t want to include the width of the mirrors. Measure the largest part of the vehicle other than the mirrors. 

Some automakers provide both measurement. The width can be obtained without mirrors as well as measurements including the mirrors folded up. This information will allow you to determine the car's fit into a garage.

What is the average length of a car?

Average car length is 14.7 feet. That’s the same size as the Nissan Versa. Because the vehicle has more passengers and cargo, its length will increase. You can still find models shorter than the average, as well as longer. 

With a length of just 12 feet, the Chevy Spark takes the top spot for the shortest car. Ford Super Duty is the longest car on the road, with a length of up to 22 feet depending on its configuration. 

READ ALSO: What is the Lifespan of a Car?