7 kinds of sedans you should consider in 2016
Image credit: FCA
We talk a lot here about determining what you need before shopping for your next vehicle. Not sure what that means, exactly? Well, it depends on what purpose you need your next car to serve and what your priorities are for that vehicle. Luckily for you, we’ve put together this short list of seven kinds of sedans you should consider in 2016.
Image credit: Melanie Batenchuk
If you’re passionate about performance, then that’s likely a top priority for you when buying a new vehicle. Do you lean more toward the eco-conscious side of the spectrum than the rubber-burning one? Then, a green vehicle is likely a better fit for you.We’ve driven each of these vehicles and recommend them based on how they’re categorized below. Of course, there are a ton more sedans available on the market — it’s an enormous chunk of car sales each year — but for the sake of this brief list, we’ve stuck to vehicles we’ve recently driven.
Image credit: VW
1) Performance-Minded
Got a penchant for putting the pedal to the metal? Then a performance-minded vehicle like the Dodge Charger SXT or Nissan Maxima (that pumps out a beastly 300 horsepower!), may be just what the doctor ordered. Want even more performance, then you can upgrade to the 707hp Charger Hellcat. Woowhee, if that doesn’t get you to the office on time, then we don’t know what will.
2) Earth-friendly
Care less about horsepower and torque than you do about where the chickens are from? A green vehicle may be the perfect fit for you. We had a great time driving the Toyota Camry Hybrid to North Carolina and back. It is an excellent fuel-efficient partner on the road — both highway and city driving. Two other hybrids sedans to consider could be the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid (and Plug-in version!) and the Ford Fusion Energi.
3) Tech-centric
Love a good user interface? We’d suggest checking out the new Volkswagen Passat 1.8T SE with Technology. At just $29,230, it’s an well-priced option, too. We love how easily Apple and Android devices integrate with this car’s infotainment system, making staying connected while behind the wheel both intuitive and a lot safer. Check out our demo of Apple CarPlay inside the 2016 Passat.
Image credit: Hyundai
4) Affordable
Speaking of being easy on the pocketbook, some of you are going to care most about not spending too much on a vehicle with all the “bells and whistles.” And that’s O.K. In that case, take a look at the Hyundai Sonata ECO. Not only does it get 38 mpg on the highway (32 combined driving), but it’s less than $25,000 (yes, you read that correctly)! Hyundai is known for packing its cars with desirable standard features at a price that won’t break the bank, and this “Eco” version is specifically geared to go light on the additional options to save the buyer some cash.
Image credit: Honda
5) Easy Every Day
When you think of a sedan, it’s highly likely that a Honda Accord crosses your mind. If you’re looking for a reliable, reputable sedan that can serve several purposes — from client carrier to kid hauler — then this could be the car for you. The 2016 Accord has a beautiful new design, shedding its former “daddy mobile” stigma, and it’s certainly worth investigating. A loaded model with navigation and the V6 engine can be had for $33,465.
Image credit: Audi USA
6) Large & Luxurious:
Looking for something a little more luxurious? We understand riding in style is a top priority for many folks. And that’s why we think you should take a look at the elegant Audi A7 3.0T quattro. Or, perhaps, a Lexus IS 460 is more your speed. The skies the limit if luxury is your most important criterion: there’s the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class and S-Class, a G90 large sedan from Genesis (Hyundai’s high-end spinoff), and Infiniti’s Q70.
7) Compact:
Like having four doors but also like finding a parking spot without trouble? Then a compact sedan may be for you. We like practical, fun little cars here, so this is probably one of our favorite categories (especially when you get into the 5-door hatchbacks). One vehicle that’s both functional and a great value is the new Hyundai Elantra, which we drove in California earlier this year. Other small sedans to put on your list are the Ford Fiesta, new Honda Civic, Mazda 3, or Toyota iM (formerly Scion iM).
Image credit: Melanie Batenchuk
What other vehicles would you suggest we consider as a great sedan option in 2016? Let us know in the comments below, or connect with us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram to keep the conversation going!
