A luxury midsize sedan is perfect for drivers who demand a high level of comfort. Here are the four best cars in this class:
2018 Honda Accord
Honda has always held a reputation for producing affordable vehicles that offer bulletproof reliability. With an attractive MSRP that starts at $23,570, the 2018 Honda Accord is some of the best value you can get in the entire market. If you want to experience more luxury, step up to the higher trim levels.
This year, the Accord gives you two turbocharged four-cylinder engines to choose from. While the base engine develops a competitive 192 horsepower, the larger engine’s 252-horepower output enables drivers to really have some fun. An available six-speed manual transmission sets the Accord apart from rivals like the Toyota Camry and the Nissan Maxima. Fuel efficiency has improved significantly for the 2018 model year. When equipped with an automatic CVT, the Accord gets a combined 33 mpg. Upgrading to the larger engine lowers fuel economy to a combined 27 mpg. The Accord’s only major downfall is its lack of an available AWD system.
On the road, the Accord drives like a car that’s far more expensive. Its smooth ride and balanced handling promise to leave you satisfied. The Touring trim’s adaptive suspension dampers ensure impressive stability on twisty roads.
While some drivers will be happy with the base Accord, the EX-L and Touring trims are especially luxurious. Some of the available niceties include heated/ventilated seats, a 450-watt sound system, and wireless phone charging. Every trim boasts a standard Honda Sensing safety package, which provides innovations such as automatic collision braking and Honda’s cutting-edge Road Departure Mitigation system.
2018 Audi A6
Some automotive journalists rank the 2018 Audi A6 as the top luxury sedan in the segment. Very few cars deliver such a great balance of efficiency and power. When equipped with Audi’s famed Quattro AWD system, the A6 becomes a great car for traveling in wintry conditions. While the A6 is impressive, it does have a lower resale value than rivals like the Lexus GS. Prices start at roughly $49,700.
If you are looking to save at the fuel pump, stick with the turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Front-wheel-drive models can deliver a combined 28 mpg. It also develops a fulfilling 252 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. You can upgrade to a supercharged V6 engine, which muscles out 340 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque. Although fuel economy takes a dip, most drivers will applaud the V6 model’s combined rating of 23 mpg.
This midsize sedan gets top marks for its dynamic handling. If you desire the reflexes of a genuine sports sedan, opt for the stiffer sports-tuned suspension. Both of the available engines feel very responsive.
The new A6 has a top-notch interior. It’s spacious, comfortable, and loaded with high-tech goodies. Audi’s standard MMI infotainment system is a gem. Meanwhile, the available digital gauge cluster can display high-resolution Google maps while you drive. A plethora of advanced safety innovations are available, including lane-keep assist and smart cruise control.
2018 Volvo S90
Like so many of Volvo’s past vehicles, the new S90 provides a superior level of crash protection. However, it is more than just a safe car. While families will love the S90’s amazing amount of legroom, drivers will appreciate its smooth performance on the road. With a MSRP of $48,100, the new S90 is less expensive than the BMW 5 Series and the Mercedes-Benz E-Class.
Most drivers will choose the standard turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which develops a healthy 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Fuel economy stands at a combined 27 mpg. Keep in mind that an AWD system is optional. To enjoy stronger acceleration, upgrade to the T6 model’s more sophisticated engine. It unleashes 316 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. Despite the extra performance, you can still look forward to getting a combined 25 mpg.
Although the Volvo S90 may not be as quick as some other luxury sedans, most drivers won’t have any complaints. The more powerful T6 model is especially engaging to drive. A smooth ride takes the S90’s appeal to the next level.
Several advanced safety innovations come standard on the S90. During an emergency situation, the Volvo On Call communications system can track your location using GPS. Meanwhile, the state-of-the-art Pilot Assist system can actually steer the sedan in certain situations. You also have access to plenty of luxurious features. While the Bowers & Wilkins audio system offers superb sound quality, the massaging front seats help you unwind on long road trips.
2018 Cadillac CTS
The 2018 Cadillac CTS is a good choice for folks who desire a fun-to-drive luxury sedan. Not only does the Cadillac CTS pack plenty of performance, but it also offers a lot of technology. Despite its great qualities, limited backseat space makes the CTS less appropriate for tall families. Prices start at $46,495, which gives the CTS an advantage over competitors like the Jaguar XF and the BMW 5 Series.
Cadillac offers an engine to suit the performance needs of every driver. The base model’s turbocharged four-cylinder engine develops 268 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. A combined fuel economy rating of 25 mpg makes it the most economical choice. However, a lot of drivers will crave the V6 engine’s 335-horsepower production. In terms of gas mileage, expect to get a combined 22 mpg. Developing a total of 420 horsepower and 430 pound-feet of torque, the V-Sport model’s boosted V6 engine proves to be a legitimate powerhouse.
This sedan’s claim-to-fame is its razor-sharp handling. It offers the nimbleness of a much smaller car. Aside from its blistering-quick acceleration, the high-performance V-Sport model also benefits from a sports-tuned Magnetic Ride Control suspension and an electronic limited-slip rear differential. If you happen to live in a cold-weather state, you can take full advantage of the optional AWD system.
The 2018 Cadillac CTS enables you to easily stay connected to your family and friends. It comes standard with a 4G Wi-Fi hot spot and smartphone integration. While Cadillac’s Cue infotainment system is still not ranked among the best, it has improved greatly over the past year. A five-star safety rating gives you another reason to like the new CTS. Except for the base model, all of the other trims benefit from forward collision warning and lane-keep assist.
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