We can discuss great power, awesome performance, how many luxury features are aboard and the quality of the looks of just about any vehicle on or off the road, but the simple reality is if a manufacturer doesn’t offer a fantastic family sedan, or several of them, they are leaving out the largest market in the world.
The family car may have felt like it took a tumble when the invention of passenger minivans came about, and it may have looked like it was heading downward again once SUVs began to rule as the choice for soccer moms, but the truth is the family sedan has always been the strongest, highest selling and most competitive market in the auto industry.
For a car to be a family sedan, it has to have some ingredients, which have not changed at all over time. It needs to have utility for the family to take their stuff with them, convenience of easy parking, easy driving, and economy, meaning it needs to be affordable to what that family needs and fit in their budget.
The hope for any family is their sedan will offer them the performance they desire as well, giving them at least some form of power, great steering, a generous suspension, and even come with some features on the inside that will keep the younger generations entertained while on a family outing.
With these specifications in mind, here are some family sedans that have been reviewed. None on this list are awful by any means, but many are better than others and even some stand head and shoulder above the rest.
The Malibu shows off a great style and technology package along with a list of available powertrains that includes a hybrid version. The onboard Wi-Fi from the 4G LTE OnStar system is great for all passengers to stay connected and the handling and drive of this car is expected to attract many buyers. The Malibu has been very popular in the past and looks to continue to be a fan favorite.
One of the best features of the Legacy is the all-wheel- drive which is standard on all models. Unfortunately one of the worst features is the CVT which needs to be replaced. Overall though, the Legacy offers the ability to handle weather and challenging road issues and keep the car stable. The Legacy does offer a roomy interior and plenty of storage space in the trunk to make a great sedan.
The Chrysler 200 was unveiled at the 2015 Detroit Auto Show and showed off an unexpected attractive quality that entices many. The V6 aboard can have AWD attached to it giving great control of the car when challenges occur. Unfortunately that is the only high point for the power as the 200 lacks precision in the steering and performance of the car, overall, it’s a great car, but there are some that are better.
The newer Camrys are more attractive than the bland offerings from previous generations, but still have more to do in order to be an exciting car, but it’s a family sedan what can we expect as far as design? The reality is the Camry is still one of the most affordable and reliable cars on the road, two of the most important qualities to any family who is looking to own a great sedan for everyday driving needs.
It’s hard to say what the new Kia Optima will offer as it enters the 2016 model year and a new generation. Based on the current generation, the Optima is a fun family sedan to drive with an engaging ride and enjoyable menu of engine options. The only drawback is a bit of a harsh ride that may have been addressed for the new model and new generation.
The Altima is designed to resemble a similar model from Infiniti but lacks the upgrades and improvements. That doesn’t mean the Altima is a bad car, just not luxury. The Altima does have the “Zero Gravity” seats which help to give comfort on long car rides and the V6 engine is actually very powerful although the only transmission offered is a CVT, but the one aboard the Altima is better than most.
The Sonata makes a great choice in the family sedan world with great style, good comfort and a group of engines to give you what you need in a car. The various creases and restrained grill of the Sonata gives it a sharp look that is near sporty, making it a car that looks amazing on the road or parked in the driveway. Add a menu of fun features for the family to enjoy an the Sonata is a very nice choice.
The Passat is actually built in Tennessee and shows off with awesome power and performance that makes it an easy and fun car to drive. Add in the spacious interior and great features that make it easy for the rest of the family to be entertained while on the road and the Passat is a remarkable choice in this class. The only drawback to the Passat is the lackluster styling that could really use a refresh.
The Fusion offers amazing style with a long hood that makes the car almost appear to be almost sporty. Plenty of power is found under the hood of the Fusion and even one of the engine choices can be had with all-wheel-drive to give the awesome control needed. Offered with hybrid models and sport models the Fusion has plenty of choices and offers awesome space on the inside as well as in the trunk for long road trips.
The Accord is an engaging car to drive that offers great dynamics, a spacious interior and shows up with a variety of options that can make it a favorite for anyone to own. With hybrid options and everything in the right place the Accord continues to be one of the leaders in this class. The Accord shows up with a reputation for reliability and a price that is easy to love along with the comfort needed for an entire family to take long road trips together.
This car looks a little sinister from the outside but offers everything you need to make it a great family sedan. The Mazda 6 comes from the line that has “zoom zoom” built into their name and it certainly has plenty of zoom under the hood while offering the space in the cabin for all to enjoy. Driving this car is fun, engaging and exhilarating giving you a great escape from the daily grind when you find and open road to drive down and experience the fun from behind the wheel.
With this awesome list of family sedans to choose from, there is no reason to sell yourself short and just settle. Many of these models now come with near luxury features, giving you the opportunity to enjoy great features aboard the car without the added price tag luxury cars present.
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