Crossovers are all the rage these days, and for good reason. Based on car platforms, crossovers handle nearly as well as low-slung vehicles but offer greater utility. So where does that leave sedans?
Though 4-door sedans may not have the same cargo capacity as their high-riding counterparts, they do offer advantages in fuel economy, driving dynamics, and price. Larger-bodied crossovers weigh more and are less aerodynamic, which leads to greater fuel consumption. Additionally, a higher center of gravity contributes to more body roll in emergency or high-speed maneuvers. Crossovers also tend to be priced as a premium alternative to equal-segment sedans.
For these reasons, sedans continue to sell extremely well in the automotive market, but some have weathered the transition in buyer tastes better than others. These are the 5 best sedans to buy for those who still appreciate the styling, handling, and efficiency of traditional 4-doors.
Hyundai Genesis
The new school of luxury has been in session for several years, and Hyundai has been a key player in the movement, especially when it comes to the latest generation Genesis sedan. While the Korean automaker has been producing reliable, technology-laden products for years, its latest products are true vehicular indulgences.
Not only does the new Genesis look spectacular from the outside, its cabin is exquisite. Available with between 311 and 420hp, the Genesis also has no problem getting up to speed. Every piece of convenience and technology equipment you’d expect to find on the BMW 5 Series or Mercedes E-Class can be found in the Genesis, and all for tens of thousands less. Starting under $26,950, the Genesis makes good company on our list.
Dodge Charger
Japan may have a firm grasp on the mid-size sedan market, but those who are tired of filling their driveways with the same car as every other neighbor will find immediate appeal in the Dodge Charger. Big, brash, and rear-wheel drive, the Charger is more than just a looker these days, it’s a competent rival to the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Kia Optima, and other class leaders.
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The standard features of the Dodge Charger SXT include 3.6L V-6 292hp engine, 8-speed automatic transmission with overdrive, 4-wheel anti-lock brakes (ABS), side seat mounted airbags, curtain 1st and 2nd row overhead airbags, airbag occupancy sensor, automatic air conditioning, 18″ aluminum wheels, cruise control, ABS and driveline traction control, and electronic stability. Prices for the 2016 model start at $27,995.
Honda Accord
The long-standing sedan default, Honda’s Accord packs technology, efficiency, reliability, fun, and affordability in a handsome package. The 2016 model year Accord is easy to distinguish thanks to its revised front and rear fascia, with styling inspired by the 10th generation Civic concept. LED headlights, turn signals, and taillights, optional 19-inch wheels, and a more steeply descending hood freshen the Accord’s appearance.
Standard features of the Honda Accord LX include a 2.4L inline 4-cylinder engine making 185hp, 6-speed manual transmission with overdrive, 4-wheel anti-lock brakes (ABS), SmartVent side seat mounted airbags, curtain 1st and 2nd row overhead airbags, airbag occupancy sensor, automatic air conditioning, 16″ aluminum wheels, cruise control, ABS and driveline traction control, electronic stability. As always, the Accord is affordable, with prices starting at $22,205, making it an even more attractive member of our list of 10 best sedans to buy.
Chevrolet Malibu
Chevrolet’s approach to the 2016 Malibu’s redesign was to distance its model as much as possible from the dreary styling of the present car. Longer, lower, and leaner than before, with stubbier, lower front and rear ends, the new generation sits tight to its wheels. The cleaner profile is helped by a roof that comes to a point further towards the rear, similar to a four-door coupe. Chevy’s new Malibu is also 300lbs lighter than its predecessor, so it doesn’t just look lean, it is.
The standard features of the Chevrolet Malibu L include an Ecotec 1.5L inline 4-cylinder turbo engine making 160hp, 6-speed automatic transmission with overdrive, 4-wheel anti-lock brakes (ABS), side seat mounted airbags, curtain 1st and 2nd row overhead airbags, rear side-impact airbag, driver and passenger knee airbag, airbag occupancy sensor, air conditioning, 16″ steel wheels, cruise control, ABS and driveline traction control, and StabiliTrak electronic stability. Prices start at $22,500.
Mazda6
The final candidate on our roundup of 5 stellar sedans to buy is the sensually styled Mazda6. The Japanese automaker’s mid-size entrant isn’t just one of the best looking sedans in its class, it’s one of the most handsome ever built. Kodo design wrapped around a light, nimble body earns the Mazda6 every enthusiast’s approval.
The standard features of the Mazda Mazda6 i Sport include SKYACTIV-G 2.5L inline 4-cylinder engine making 184hp, 6-speed manual transmission with overdrive, 4-wheel anti-lock brakes (ABS), side seat mounted airbags, curtain 1st and 2nd row overhead airbags, airbag occupancy sensor, air conditioning, 17″ aluminum wheels, cruise control, ABS and driveline traction control, and electronic stability. Beauty comes cheap, too, as the 2016 Mazda6 costs just $21,495.