Crossover SUVs have taken over the roads like a swarm of outerworld species invading Earth and have in the process brought about the near annihilation of a lot of other vehicles particularly in the subcompact and compact classifications. Sedans are one of the main classifications that have taken a hit though there are a selection of arguably the best sedans, such as the new BMW M3, that still do persist. Sedans simply have special qualities that car enthusiasts and casual drivers alike, just can’t do without. They are a proven, tried-and-tested platform that offers drivers a well-balanced driving experience and ideal day-to-day practicality.
The Defining Qualities of Sedans
There is a massive variety of sedans out there on the market all catering to different appeals but holding a lot of the same core qualities. Whether focusing on performance in acceleration and handling capabilities or on luxury in driving pleasure and occupant accommodations, sedans can be specialized for one or the other or offer a combination of both. The same idea is linked to the pricing of sedans with brands, makes, and models all spanning the full price spectrum depending on what you’re looking for. Below, we go a little further into what sedans can offer in three specific categories:
Performance
Performance ranges vastly with sedans from fast and furious to tranquil and sedate, but all sedans are, in general, known for their balanced performance dynamics in terms of handling and ride quality. They are typically easier to maneuver around urban settings than large SUVs and pickup trucks because they tend to be nimbler. Their relatively long body’s, long wheelbases, and drivetrains, whether it be front-, rear-, or all-wheel-drive, feel intrinsically designed for commuting in urban places such as on highways, city streets and in parking lots. Sedans are also generally more fuel-efficient than other types of cars because they are typically pretty aerodynamic and lightweight.
Specification
When we talk about specifications we’re referring to the tier-level of the car and the features it comes with. Sedans don’t differ in this regard to any extent but it is something worth going over especially if you plan on buying a car brand new. Every car, unless a special edition or unique proposition, is presented in a lineup that comprises a variety of trims that differ in various ways. The base model in a lineup is usually the most affordable as it comes with just the basics and moving up the trim line will, in some cases, see a more capable engine, transmission, and drivetrain configurations, and in all cases, more features added. With more casual, mainstream sedans in particular, automakers tend to offer a “sport” version of the nameplate for those who would be so inclined.
Livability
Sedans are ideal family runabouts, that is, of course, if your family consists of no more than five members. Their interiors are otherwise good for two adults upfront and two in the back seat with a center rear seat usually just ok for smaller children. Four doors makes for easy ingress and egress and a large trunk provides enough space for everyone to store their work or school bags. If you’re planning a vacation or weekend getaway, a lot of sedans are capable of towing a moderate amount. Sedans can also be both entertaining to drive and sophisticated enough to use as business cars. In other words, they are simply great all rounders.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Sedans
SUVs and pickup trucks may be a lot more useful when it comes to towing and hauling cargo around long or short distances, and they’re both certainly better purposed to off-roading as well. Sedans are limited in all of these regards by their three-box designs but exhibit their own qualities that many enthusiasts and casual drivers admire. While most modern vehicles are coming solely with automatic transmissions, there are many sporty sedans out there that come equipped with manual gearboxes which are dying out faster than front bench seats and tailfins. There are also sedans on the total other end of the spectrum, offering all out luxury in the drive that they deliver and in the cabin quality and features they offer. Simply put, there’s a sedan for just about everyone.
Advantages
- Easy and enjoyable to drive
- Smooth and comfortable ride
- Good fuel economy returns
- Designed for the urban setting
- Extensive variety of options
Disadvantages
- Performance models are quite expensive
- Limited to a maximum of five occupants
- Not suited to off-roading to any extent
- Not as handy as SUVs and trucks
While they may not be as popular as they once were before, sedans are still very alive and well despite the SUV and crossover onslaught.
