Efficiently filter vehicles for competitive analysis using dedicated segments for brand hierarchy and categories like small to heavy-duty trucks, SUVs, sedans, + more to simplify comparisons between similar models.
Cloud Theory Make Segmenting
We have categorized vehicle makes into three distinct classifications: non-luxury, luxury, and exotic, based on market segmentation and consumer preferences. Our non-luxury category features economy-focused, mainstream brands like Honda, Toyota, and Ford. Our luxury category includes premium brands such as Audi, Tesla, and Lexus, known for their superior refinement and performance. Our exotic category comprises ultra-high-end brands like Bentley, Rolls-Royce, and Lamborghini, renowned for their exclusivity and exceptional craftsmanship. These classifications enable Cloud Theory to provide stakeholders with precise insights and analysis tailored to each make segment.
Makes Included in Non-Luxury
| AMC | FIAT | Jeep | Plymouth | THI!NK |
| AM General | Fisker | Kia | Pontiac | Toyota |
| Buick | Ford | MAZDA | Ram | Triumph |
| Chevrolet | Geo | Mercury | Saab | VinFast |
| Chrysler | GMC | Merkur | Saturn | Volkswagen |
| Daihatsu | Honda | MINI | Scion | Yugo |
| Datsun | HUMMER | Mitsubishi | Smart | |
| Dodge | Hyundai | Nissan | Subaru | |
| Eagle | Isuzu | Oldsmobile | Suzuki |
Makes Included in Luxury
| Acura | Genesis | Lexus | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Alfa Romeo | Infiniti | Lincoln | Polestar | Wagoneer |
| Audi | Jaguar | Lotus | Porsche | |
| BMW | Karma | Lucid | Rivian | |
| Cadillac | Land Rover | Maserati | Tesla |
Makes Included in Exotic
| Aston Martin | Bugatti | Lamborghini | Panoz |
| Bentley | DeLorean | Maybach | Pininfarina |
| Bertone | Ferrari | McLaren | Rolls-Royce |
Standard Segmenting vs. Cloud Theory Segmenting
Standard vehicle segmenting broadly classifies vehicles without taking detailed size, capacity, or other important attributes into account. Alternatively, Cloud Theory segmenting delves into vehicle specs and functionalities that reflect real cross-shopping patterns. For example, while standard segmenting labels both Chevy Trax and Ford Expedition as "SUVs" despite their $90K price difference, Cloud Theory provides a nuanced classification. This allows stakeholders like sales managers and marketing teams to analyze data more accurately for deeper consumer insights and informed decision-making.
Segment Definitions
| SUV | A utility vehicle with high ground clearance and the ability to drive off-road |
| Truck | A vehicle with an open cargo area at the back |
| Van | A vehicle designed for transporting goods |
| Minivan | A vehicle designed for transporting people |
| Sedan | A four-door car with a traditional trunk |
| Coupe | A two-door car with a traditional trunk |
| Hatchback | A car with a rear door that opens upward to provide access to a cargo area |
| Wagon | A car with an extended roofline and a large cargo area |
| Convertible | A car with a retractable roof that can be folded down or removed |
Cloud Theory Segment Definitions
| Small SUV | Less than 185 inches, has a seating capacity of 5 or less, 2 rows of seats, and a max cargo space of less than 70 cubic feet |
| Mid-Size SUV | Between 182 and 195 inches, seats 5 people or less, has 2 rows of seats, and between 60 and 90 cubic feet of cargo space |
| Full-Size SUV | Between 192 and 210 inches, seats between 5 and 7 people, has 2-3 rows of seating, and between 80-110 cubic feet of cargo space |
| XL SUV | 207 inches or longer, seats 8 or more people, has 3 rows of seating, and more than 100 cubic feet of cargo space |
| Small Truck | Overall length of around 190 inches or less, payload capacity of up to 1,500 pounds, towing capacity of up to 7,000 pounds |
| Mid-Size Truck | Overall length of between 190 and 230 inches, payload capacity of up to 2,000 pounds, towing capacity of up to 7,700 pounds |
| Full-Size Truck | Overall length of over 230 inches, payload capacity of up to 3,500 pounds, towing capacity of up to 14,000 pounds |
| Heavy Duty Truck | Payload capacity of over 3,500 pounds, towing capacity of over 14,000 pounds |
| Van | These are vans that are primarily designed for transporting goods, equipment or people. The cargo variations have a ample storage space, often with no rear windows, and may have a higher roofline to accommodate taller items. They are also usually equipped with heavy-duty suspension and other features that make them more suitable for carrying heavy loads. The Passanger variations typically have multiple rows of seating, with capacity for up to 15 passengers. They may also have amenities such as rear climate control, entertainment systems, and power sliding doors for easy access. |
| Minivan | These are vans that are designed for passenger transportation, with a focus on comfort, convenience, and safety. They typically have a spacious interior with multiple seating configurations and amenities such as entertainment systems, climate control, and power sliding doors. They may also have a lower step-in height and more car-like handling than cargo or passenger vans. |
| Small Sedan | Less than 185 inches in length, has less than 35 inches of rear leg room and less than 55 inches rear of shoulder room |
| Mid-Size Sedan | Between 185 and 200 inches in length, has between 35 and 40 inches of rear leg room and between 55 and 58 inches of rear shoulder room |
| Full-Size Sedan | Over 200 inches long, has over 40 inches of rear legroom and over 58 inches of rear shoulder room |
| Coupe | A two-door car with a fixed roof and a sloping rear |
| Wagon/Hatchback | Built on a car platform with a dedicated rear door that has access to the main cabin |