Improved performance capabilities and cutting-edge safety technologies have helped midsize sedans to remain popular. Furthermore, even the base models now come loaded with an extensive list of modern features. Let’s take a look at the newest midsize sedans to hit the market.
2018 Toyota Camry
Already one of the best-selling family cars in history, the Toyota Camry has been completely redesigned for 2018. Longtime Camry fans will immediately notice the sedan’s meaner appearance. Featuring quad exhaust tips and an aggressive front fascia, the new XSE trim looks especially powerful.
The 2018 Toyota Camry boasts an all-new engine lineup. With a total output of 203 horsepower, the base four-cylinder is bound to be a top choice. An eight-speed automatic transmission also helps bolster the Camry’s fuel efficiency. You can look forward to getting up to 41 mpg, which is a significant improvement over the previous generation.
For the drivers who demand more performance, Toyota offers a potent V6 engine. It develops an exciting 301 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque. Improved road handling makes the 2018 Toyota Camry especially engaging to drive.
A longer wheelbase enables the new Camry to provide more passenger room than before. You can also take advantage of the sedan’s value-packed features. Every trim benefits from a Toyota Sense Safety package, which includes driving aids such as adaptive cruise control and automatic braking. Toyota’s highly rated Entune infotainment system comes standard as well.
2018 Hyundai Sonata
The 2018 Hyundai Sonata deserves to be mentioned among today’s best midsize sedans. Not only does the new Sonata flaunt an updated look, but it also offers an additional number of high-tech features. You will certainly enjoy the Sonata’s improved driving dynamics.
Like before, the Sonata comes standard with a 185-horsepower engine. It provides just enough muscle to keep drivers engaged. The arrival of a new eight-speed transmission helps give the 2018 model a more responsive feel on the road. In terms of fuel economy, the EPA rates the new Sonata to return 25 mpg in town and 36 mpg on the open highway. Fitted with a small turbocharged engine, the Eco trim squeezes out an extra three mpg in the city. You can also upgrade to a larger turbocharged engine, which pumps out a healthy 245 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque.
This year, Hyundai designed the Sonata’s cabin to have sharper appearance. Every driver can take advantage of the sedan’s well-organized interior controls. Some of the most notable standard features include a touchscreen infotainment system, smartphone integration, and a rear-view camera. While all versions of the Sonata provide great crash protection, you also have access to safety innovations like lane-keep assist and automatic braking.
2018 Honda Accord
For more than 20 years, the Honda Accord has remained one of America’s favorite cars. The new model brings improved fuel economy and more legroom for your backseat passengers. On top of that, everyone has been talking about the 2018 Accord’s dynamic styling.
Although the 2018 Honda Accord no longer offers a powerful V6 engine, it still delivers ample performance. You will be able to choose from two turbocharged four-cylinder engines. The base 1.5L engine produces a solid 192 horsepower while returning up to 36 mpg. Meanwhile, the optional 2.0L engine develops a more inspiring 252 horsepower. Along with the extra power comes a new 10-speed automatic transmission. In contrast to most of the competition, the Accord continues to also offer an engaging manual transmission. Expect the new Accord to deliver an impressive balance of sportiness and ride comfort.
Car reviewers are raving about the Accord’s updated interior design. The new infotainment system is more smartphone-friendly and less complicated to use. Options include a 4G Wi-Fi hot spot, a 450-watt sound system, and wireless charging.
Honda also provides a slew of advanced driving aids. No other sedan in the class offers a Lane Watch camera system. When attempting to switch lanes, a passenger-side camera displays footage of oncoming vehicles. For the first time, the Accord can be equipped with driver drowsiness detection.
2018 Subaru Legacy
Some car shoppers tend to forget about the Subaru Legacy. Nevertheless, it remains a top contender in the midsize sedan segment. To help the 2018 Legacy to avoid becoming lost in the crowd, Subaru gave it a styling refresh. The sedan’s suspension has also been tweaked to promote a sportier driving experience.
Subaru’s famous “boxer” four-cylinder engine remains the base power source. It develops a satisfying 175 horsepower. Fuel economy stands at 25 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the freeway. Only the top-of-the-line Limited trim can be equipped with a more potent V6 engine. The engine’s 256-horspower output promotes noticeably quicker acceleration. An automatic CVT is found on every trim.
While the Subaru Legacy is not the most exciting performer in the class, its nimble handling and relaxed ride will impress a lot of drivers. What really sets apart the Legacy is its world-class AWD system. The enhanced traction will certainly come in handy during bad weather.
The new Subaru Legacy gets high marks for its family-sized cabin. Excellent seat comfort makes the Legacy a great choice for taking out-of-town road trips. For the 2018 model year, Subaru’s impressive Starlink interface now comes standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Superior crash-test scores and innovative safety features add to the Legacy’s appeal. Plus, it is the only car in the segment that offers reverse automatic braking.
2018 Chevrolet Malibu
Many automotive journalists consider the 2018 Chevrolet Malibu to be an incredibly well-rounded sedan. It provides an entertaining driving experience while still excelling as a family vehicle. A five-star safety rating and above-average reliability make the Malibu especially rewarding.
Chevy allows you to choose from a pair of turbocharged four-cylinder engines. While the base 1.5L engine can return up to 36 mpg, some drivers will crave the larger 2.0L engine’s additional performance. It churns out a solid 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. An exclusive nine-speed transmission comes equipped on the top-of-the-line Malibu Premier. Best-in-class handling gives the Malibu an extra fun factor.
While the base Malibu’s affordability will attract some buyers, Chevy’s signature MyLink infotainment system and a backup camera come standard on the mid-level Malibu LS. A 4G LTE-powered web connection is available as well.
An abundance of safety technologies can be added to the Malibu. GM’s award-winning OnStar communications can immediately link you to roadside assistance. Advanced driving aids, such as blind-spot monitoring, give you even more security on the road.
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