While there are many great examples of sedans, we only have room for five this time around. The prices shown reflect the MSRP of base models.
Bug Zapper
VW JettaWhile the iconic VW Bug could accommodate a driver and three passengers, the Jetta does it so much better. Beneath the attractive exterior lies a roomy cabin for up to four passengers and the driver, with impressive features such as the IQ safety system, which helps maintain a safe distance between vehicles ahead, while alerting the driver to objects in blind spots to the rear. Powered by a turbocharged, 158-horsepower engine, the Jetta can be ordered with a six-speed manual transmission or an eight-speed automatic.
Big Car Style
Honda AccordHondas have come a long way since the tiny N600 that resembled an oversized lunch box. Accords are now the industry standard for affordable, well-equipped sedans. The sleek exterior is accented by stylish aluminum wheels, while the cabin, with room for five in comfort, has features that are both practical and posh, such as the eight-inch touchscreen display and safety features that include an emergency braking system and adaptive cruise control. It’s powered by a 2.0-liter VTEC engine delivering 252 horsepower and has 30 miles per gallon city fuel economy.
Running on Air
Toyota MirajWhile many are agog over battery-powered electric vehicles (EVs), which are decidedly not eco-friendly, the Miraj forgoes problematic batteries for hydrogen, an abundant, clean-burning fuel with only water as a by-product, to generate its electricity. EPA-rated for a range of 402 miles—much more than a “normal” EV—the Miraj ensures that the driver and up to four passengers are comfortable in heated and ventilated seats, rear-window and rear-door window sunshades, a massive touchscreen display for vehicle information and entertainment options, and customizable ambient lighting.
Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing
Audi A4Those who can’t decide between rear-wheel or front-wheel drive will be entranced by the A4’s Quattro all-wheel-drive system. It directs the exact right amount of power from the turbocharged 2.0-liter, 201-horsepower engine to each wheel to ensure maximum grip. A 260-horsepower engine is available for those who want to go from zero to 60 in 5.2 seconds. The 12.3-inch display combines vehicle information and an array of entertainment options. An optional parking assist system provides steering guidance when maneuvering into tight spaces.
Baby Benz
Mercedes A 220Mercedes-Benz is known for making some of the world’s best luxury vehicles, but not all of the firm’s offerings are geared toward the rich and famous crowd. The nicely equipped A 220 base model price is comparable to the prices of the other sedans in this roundup when typical options are factored in. Powered by a 188-horsepower, 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine linked to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, this front-wheel drive, upscale sedan is rated at 24 miles per gallon in city driving, thanks to the ECO start/stop function.
