The Evolution of Car Segments: Then vs Now

From the humble saloon to the dominance of SUVs, the UK car market has transformed dramatically over the past few decades. Changes in lifestyle, technology, and environmental awareness have shifted the types of vehicles we buy – and why we buy them.

At anycolourcar.com, we’ve watched these changes first-hand, helping drivers across Barnsley and South Yorkshire adapt to new trends and find cars that suit their evolving needs. Here's a look at how car segments have changed over time – and what it means for today’s buyers.

🚗 1980s–1990s: The Rise of the Saloon & Hatchback

Key Segments:

• Saloon cars (e.g., Ford Sierra, Vauxhall Cavalier)

• Hatchbacks (e.g., VW Golf, Peugeot 205)

Why they were popular:

• Practical for commuting and family life

• Affordable, with low running costs

• Compact size suited to UK roads

Trend highlight:
The hatchback became a UK staple, offering versatility for urban and rural drivers alike. Saloon cars were common among business users and long-distance drivers.

🚐 Late 1990s–2000s: The MPV Boom

Key Segments:

• MPVs / People carriers (e.g., Renault Espace, Vauxhall Zafira)

• Estates (e.g., Volvo V70, Ford Mondeo Estate)

Why they were popular:

• More space for growing families

• Flexible seating configurations

• Rising demand for comfort on long trips

Trend highlight:
MPVs were the ultimate family car – especially for parents in Barnsley and South Yorkshire looking to juggle prams, shopping, and school runs. However, their boxy looks began to fall out of fashion.

🚙 2010s: The SUV & Crossover Take Over

Key Segments:

• SUVs (e.g., Nissan Qashqai, Kia Sportage)

• Crossovers (e.g., Ford Kuga, Renault Captur)

Why they were popular:

• Higher driving position

• Stylish looks with practicality

• More spacious than hatchbacks, but more compact than MPVs

Trend highlight:
The crossover SUV changed everything. It blended the commanding feel of a 4x4 with the economy of a hatchback. Suddenly, families swapped MPVs for sleek SUVs.

At anycolourcar.com, SUVs quickly became one of our most requested vehicle types – especially for those navigating country roads around South Yorkshire or needing more boot space for family life.

🔌 2020s: The EV Shift & Reimagining Segments

Key Segments:

• Electric SUVs & Hatchbacks (e.g., Tesla Model Y, VW ID.3)

• Compact Crossovers (e.g., Hyundai Kona Electric)

• Light Commercial EVs (e.g., Vauxhall Vivaro-e)

Why they’re popular:

• Environmentally conscious choices

• Government incentives for EV ownership

• Technological innovation and performance

Trend highlight:
The car segment landscape is evolving again – this time led by electric vehicles (EVs). EVs don’t fit traditional moulds: many blur lines between segments, offering SUV practicality in hatchback shapes.

And with the UK’s ban on new petrol and diesel cars approaching (currently set for 2035), more drivers in Barnsley and South Yorkshire are looking at how EVs fit into their lifestyle.

📈 Segment Trends: What's In and What's Out

🗺️ What This Means for Buyers in Barnsley & South Yorkshire

Living in a region like South Yorkshire – with its mix of town, country, and motorway driving – you’ll want a car segment that meets diverse needs. Here's how trends impact local drivers:

• SUVs & Crossovers: Great for school runs in Barnsley, weekend Peak District drives, or motorway commutes to Sheffield or Leeds.

• LCVs: Tradespeople in Rotherham or Doncaster benefit from reliable vans, now available in electric variants.

• EV Hatchbacks: Ideal for local commuting and city-centre parking, especially with growing charge point availability across South Yorkshire.

🛒 How anycolourcar.com Can Help

At anycolourcar.com, we understand that buying a car isn't just about the latest trends – it’s about what fits your life. Whether you're after a compact hatchback, a family-sized SUV, or an electric crossover, we help you find the right car, in the right colour, at the right price – all with delivery available across Barnsley and South Yorkshire.

With access to a wide network of vehicles and expert advice, we make it easy to stay ahead of the curve, no matter which segment you’re shopping in.

✅ Key Takeaways

• MPVs are out; SUVs and Crossovers are in.

• EVs are reshaping car segments – and rapidly growing in popularity.

• Local driving needs in South Yorkshire often favour practical, spacious segments.

• Your choice of segment should match your lifestyle, budget and driving habits.

📲 Need Help Choosing a Segment?

Get in touch with the team at anycolourcar.com. We’ll help you compare your options and source the perfect car – without the showroom stress.

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