In this paper, we present a structured literature mapping of the state-of-the-art of vehicular perception methods and approaches using inertial sensors. An in-depth investigation and classification were performed employing the results of a systematic literature review. The analysis focused on identifying methods that capture signals provided by inertial sensors such as accelerometers and gyroscopes to recognize transient or persistent events associated with the vehicle’s movement. We classified these events into vehicular exteroception, associated with potholes, cracks, speed bumps, pavement type, conservation state; and vehicular proprioception, associated with lane change, braking, skidding, aquaplaning, turning right or left. Through the comprehensive study of publications in a 7-year time window, in addition to the methods, we have also identified their dependency factors, hardware platforms and applications.