Video: How to choose the best sedan for you

Consumer Reports News: June 07, 2010 07:38 AM

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Sedans

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Sedans are the heart of the car market. Available in a range of sizes and prices, sedans provide good transportation for young drivers, commuters, and families. Traditional five-passenger sedans are most popular and are generally priced between $20,000 and $30,000. Prices range from about $14,000 for some small, basic sedans and go up to well over $90,000 for the most luxurious rides. It may seem that all sedans are simply four-door cars with a trunk, but there are a few things to consider before buying. (See our sedan buying advice, ratings, and recommendations.)

With more than 100 foreign and domestic sedans to choose from, it can be hard to winnow the choices. Key considerations include size, price, fuel economy, comfort, performance, safety, and reliability.

Determining the sedan type will help narrow the field. Each type of sedan—small, family, large, upscale, or luxury—has a spectrum of models from which to choose, so this is a good first step toward creating a list of models to research.

Once you determine a type of sedan, you can then choose important considerations, such as fuel economy, engine size, and safety features. Generally, the smaller the sedan, the better gas mileage you will get, but newer sedans are becoming more fuel efficient than ever before. A four-cylinder engine may suffice. Buying a V6 or larger engine may provide more power, but it could also exact a penalty in purchase price, fuel economy, and service costs.

Electronic stability control is standard on a majority of new sedans and curtain air bags are also increasingly common, but check their availability before you buy. Don't assume these potentially life-saving technologies are on the specific model you are purchasing.

Check out our sedans buying advice video for more advice and tips on choosing the right sedan for your needs.

For Ratings and recommendations on sedans, see our sedans buying guide.

— Liza Barth