Types of sedans

Small sedans

The small sedan category is home to rudimentary 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 the small-car footprint. The power plants are often four-cylinder engines typically with 1.8-2.0 liter displacement. Turbochargers or superchargers can be found on high-performance models. Prices normally range from $15,000 to $20,000 and fuel economy averages from the mid-20s to low-30s mpg overall.

Family sedans

This broad category includes midsized cars with space for five passengers. Engines can have four or six cylinders. These cars tend to have more passenger and cargo space than smaller cars, greater power, a more comfortable ride, and noise suppression. Their designs usually afford more structural protection than those of small cars in a crash, and a full complement of safety features are available in most models. These are well-suited to transporting four to five adults, providing a comfortable cabin and good road manners. Typical prices are $20,000 to $35,000. Fuel economy, except for hybrids, ranges from about 18 to 25 mpg.

Large sedans

Their potentially fine ride, powerful engines, and large luggage capacity are most appreciated on long trips and when transporting several large adults. Once known for accommodating six passengers thanks to a front bench seat, large sedans are near-universally configured for five. Fuel economy and maneuverability in tight spaces are common trade offs for these big cars. Power usually comes from a V6, though a V8 might be optional. Horsepower currently ranges from about 200 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.

Upscale sedans

Richly appointed cars ranging from modest to large that are priced at the high end of their size categories are considered upscale. These œaspirational" models don't qualify as true luxury cars in our book, although they tend to come with elegant or at least showy appointments using a better-than-average grade of materials and a full complement of power accessories. This class splits into some true sports sedans, such as the BMW 3 Series and Infiniti G. Others, such as the Lexus ES or Lincoln MKZ, play the role of a bargain luxury car and some have a more modestly equipped cousin flourishing elsewhere in the automaker's lineup. Typical prices here are low $30s to low $40s. Most upscale sedans require premium fuel.

Luxury sedans

Most luxury sedans are midsized to large cars designed to offer the very best in premium appointments, features, and powertrain. The category consists mostly of two subclasses: midsized and full-sized. There are contenders priced from the low $40s to about $60,000. These midsized cars, such as Mercedes-Benz E-Class or Infiniti M, come with either a V6 or a V8. Virtually all offer AWD as an option. Quintessential luxury cars include the full-sized offerings from Audi, BMW, Jaguar, Lexus, and Mercedes-Benz. Their usual driveline layout is rear-wheel drive with all-wheel drive as an option in some cases. Base engines are V8s, with a V10 or V12 available in some. Fuel economy tends to be a low priority, as these large, heavy cars emphasize hedonistic travel pleasures and effortless acceleration over frugality. Figure on averaging 17 to 22 mpg, usually on premium fuel.