How wide is a car with mirrors?
Most passenger cars are roughly 78 to 84 inches wide including the side mirrors, about 2.0 meters across. The exact width varies by vehicle class and mirror design.
In this article, we unpack what “width” means for a car, provide typical ranges by category both with and without mirrors, discuss factors that affect overall width, and offer practical tips for parking, garage clearance, and lane positioning.
What counts as width
Width is the distance from the far left to the far right edge of the vehicle at its widest point. This usually means the overall width including exterior mirrors when you’re planning space, though some official specs publish width without mirrors. Always verify which figure you’re using for a given purpose.
Typical width ranges
Below are approximate widths you can expect in common vehicle classes. Use these as planning guides for parking spaces, garages, and lane clearance; exact figures depend on the model and mirror design.
- Without mirrors (body width only):
Subcompact: 66–68 in (168–173 cm) - Without mirrors:
Compact: 68–72 in (173–183 cm) - Without mirrors:
Midsize sedans: 72–76 in (183–193 cm) - Without mirrors:
Large sedans and SUVs: 76–78 in (193–198 cm) - Without mirrors:
Pickup trucks: 76–80 in (193–203 cm)
These ranges illustrate how body width varies by category; mirrors add extra width beyond these values.
- With mirrors (overall width including mirrors):
Subcompact/Compact: 78–82 in (198–208 cm) - With mirrors:
Midsize sedans: 80–84 in (203–213 cm) - With mirrors:
SUVs: 82–86 in (208–218 cm) - With mirrors:
Pickup trucks: 82–90 in (208–229 cm)
As a general rule, the presence of larger or folding mirrors pushes the total width higher, and trims or options like extended mirrors can shift these values further.
Factors that affect width with mirrors
Several design choices and options influence the measured width:
- Mirror size and style (standard, wide-angle, or extended mirrors)
- Whether mirrors are folded in for parking
- Mirror housing shape and placement on the doors
- Overall vehicle track width and body styling
- Aftermarket mirrors or additional trailer mirrors that extend width
Small changes in mirror design or configuration can noticeably alter the total width, which matters in tight lots and narrow streets.
Practical measurement tips
How to measure width accurately
To obtain a precise width for planning purposes, compare the official spec and perform a manual measurement if needed:
- Park on level ground with mirrors extended (for width including mirrors).
- Measure straight across from the outer edge of the left mirror housing to the outer edge of the right mirror housing.
- If you want body width without mirrors, measure the widest point across the body itself (often near the doors, away from mirrors).
- Check the vehicle’s official spec sheet or owner’s manual for standardized figures and tolerances.
Keep in mind that folded mirrors or tire/legroom variations can cause small discrepancies in measurements.
Summary
In everyday terms, many cars are about 78–84 inches wide with mirrors, with slightly smaller body widths and larger totals for SUVs and pickups. Always verify the exact width for your specific model, especially when planning parking, garage space, or negotiating narrow lanes. Knowing these dimensions helps ensure safe, comfortable maneuvering in confined spaces.
