Types of sedans

Small sedans

Small sedans

The small sedan category is home to basic economy cars and compact premium cars. Typical characteristics include good fuel economy, elevated levels of noise in many cases, and limited space for passengers, especially in the rear, and for cargo. Many small sedans come in hatchback versions, with two or four doors. Though technically not sedans, hatchbacks can add considerable utility to these models without paying more or sacrificing gas mileage. The engines are often four-cylinders, typically with 1.8- to 2.0-liter displacement. High-performance models may have turbochargers. Prices normally range from $15,000 to $20,000, and fuel economy averages from the mid-20s mpg to low-30s overall.

Family sedans

Family sedans

This broad category includes midsized cars with space for five passengers. Engines usually have four or six cylinders. These cars tend to have more passenger and cargo space than smaller cars, more power, a more comfortable ride, and less noise. They usually provide better crash protection than small cars, aided by additional structure, safety features, and overall vehicle weight. Typical prices are $20,000 to $35,000. Fuel economy for conventional models ranges from about 18 to 25 mpg overall. Hybrids and diesels can reach 33 to 44 mpg overall.

Large sedans

Large sedans

For long trips or when transporting several adults, a large sedan's extra luggage capacity and often soft ride and powerful engines can make a big difference. Today's large sedans usually seat five, not six, with front bucket seats and a rear bench. They trade off some maneuverability and usually fuel economy for extra roominess. Power typically comes from a V6; larger V8s are optional in some models. Horsepower currently ranges from about 220 to 300 in this class. Prices range from the high $20s to the high $30s. Typical fuel economy ranges from about 17 to 22 mpg overall in our tests.

Upscale sedans

Upscale sedans

Richly appointed cars ranging in size from modest to large that are priced at the high end of their size categories are considered upscale. Their better-than-average materials, rich assortment of power accessories and features, and in many models elegant (or at least showy) appointments set them apart from less expensive models. However, their smaller size, less plush ride, and often noisier cabins mean these œaspirational" models don't qualify as true luxury cars in our book. This class splits into mainly two groups: sporty (i.e., BMW 3 Series and Infiniti G) and bargain luxury car, often derived from a more mainstream model from the automaker (i.e., Lexus ES and Lincoln MKZ). Typical prices range from the low $30s to the low $40s. Upscale sedans typically require premium fuel.

Luxury sedans

Luxury sedans

Most luxury sedans are midsized to large cars designed to offer the very best in premium appointments, features, and powertrains. The category consists mostly of two subclasses: midsized and fullsized. The midsized contenders, such as Mercedes-Benz E-Class or Infiniti M, are generally priced from the low $40s to about $60,000 and come with a choice of a V6 or a V8. Almost all offer AWD as an option. Full-sized luxury models are what we think of as quintessential premium cars, including Audi A8, BMW 7 Series, Jaguar XJ, Lexus LS, and Mercedes-Benz S-Class. They usually have rear-wheel drive, in some cases with all-wheel drive as an option. Base engines are V8s, with V10s, V12s, or even hybrid models available in some. Fuel economy tends to be a lower priority than pampering, as these large, heavy cars emphasize hedonistic travel pleasures and effortless acceleration over frugality. Figure on averaging 17 to 22 mpg overall, usually on premium fuel.

See also:

GPS

Car batteries

Tires

Car seats