Question from the forum “Behind the wheel”— they answer them from time to time:
In the old Volga and Zhiguli, the seats were easy to position for a berth. People often wonder which modern cars can offer a similar capability for overnight comfort. Today, car interiors are designed with safety and ergonomic considerations in mind. Front-seat architecture must support proper posture, distribute load effectively, and provide a backrest height that sits well above the rear passenger row. The cushions and backrests are contoured rather than flat to reduce fatigue and improve long-term comfort on longer trips.
When the topic shifts to sleeping in a car, there are practical possibilities, especially in larger vehicles. Minibuses, full-size crossovers, and estate cars stand out as the most convenient options for spending the night inside a vehicle. These types of vehicles typically provide a more level floor and a greater sense of space, which makes it easier to lie down and stretch out comfortably. The objective is always to maximize usable flat surface while preserving safe access and exit routes from the vehicle.
Among common choices, larger hatchbacks and crossovers can work well when configured thoughtfully. It helps to have seats that fold flat or nearly flat, creating a continuous sleeping area. In practice, someone might test this setup on a family estate or a practical vehicle that offers ample rear seats and a forgiving floor layout. The key is ensuring there is enough distance from the tailgate to the front-seat backrests so that a sleeping area does not feel cramped or obstructed by hardware or seat frames.
Overall, the idea is straightforward: with careful seating arrangements, flat floors, and secure, unobtrusive backstrikes and latching, spending the night in a car can be a feasible option for travelers and campers in the right circumstances. It is always prudent to prioritize ventilation, temperature control, and privacy when sleeping inside a vehicle to maintain safety and comfort throughout the night.