Before everyone traded in their sedan or hatchback for an SUV or crossover, some of the more popular names in the game were the Kia Optima, Hyundai Elantra, and Honda Accord. Despite the shift in priorities, many of these models feature on the list of top sellers in the USA in some form or another. So, if you aren’t as keen to jump on the high-rider bandwagon, never fear – you do have options. There aren’t many hatchbacks available, but there are plenty of sedan and coupe models to choose from, each offering its own benefits, including the fact that these are
- Usually cheaper than an SUV
- Smaller and more maneuverable
- Good for a family or a solo thrill-seeker
- Superior fuel economy thanks to their lighter weight
- Classic design means classic good looks
Sedan
Perhaps the most classic of cars, the sedan is a versatile piece of machinery. It can be built for practicality, comfort, speed, or any combination of these. It is for these reasons that the configuration remains popular. Some of the top options include:
Genesis G80
Executive sedans will always be status symbols. They look more refined than ungainly SUVs, and the G80 is right up there with the best. It doesn’t come cheap, with a starting MSRP of around $48k, but there is always the cheaper alternative – the G70. Each of these stylish vehicles boasts exemplary dependability and safety, with high ratings from J.D. Power.
Besides distinguished looks, the G80 is a strong performer thanks to its 304-horsepower turbo-four, but for those who really want to get where they’re going in a hurry, the 380-hp V6 is the way to go. Naturally, the interior is more than just handsome, it has all the latest tech, including an extensive safety suite.
Kia K5
An affordable option in the sedan segment, the K5 is FWD and powered by a turbocharged inline-four engine, though it does offer AWD and a much more impressive motor, if you are willing to invest a bit more. Still, the top-tier model will only set you back around $31k. In its most efficient guise, it returns mileage figures of 32 mpg combined. To top it all off, it’s one heck of a sexy car, with a futuristic grille, sleek LEDs, and an available panoramic sunroof.
Inside, things are a little more budget. But, where the materials may not astound, the styling certainly does. There is also a fair amount of standard equipment, like keyless entry, dual-zone climate control, and lane keeping assist. It also manages to rival segment leaders in terms of cargo capacity, providing up to 16 cubic feet.
Coupe
Dropping from four to two doors and adding a sloping roofline may seem impractical, but when has beauty ever come without a little suffering? These vehicles prioritize attractiveness and aerodynamics for improved performance and appeal. Most are similarly priced to their sedan counterparts, or even cheaper, in some cases. However, if you plan to start a family, they may not be your first choice, but they do make for great second vehicles.
Honda Civic Si
One of the most iconic nameplates in the sport coupe segment, the Civic has spent decades refining itself while never forgetting its roots. Now, it is one of the best affordable coupes available. The inline-four engine isn’t overpowered, with 205 horsepower on tap, but it gets you around town briskly, and the manual transmission is a dream to operate.
While it may be a coupe, it refuses to sacrifice practicality. The back seat is spacious enough for most adults, and the trunk can stow up to 11.9 cubic feet. If you need more than this, the Honda Civic is also presented in hatchback form, though it loses a bit of power. Style-wise, the Si is a looker, though you don’t have a lot of choice when it comes to interior materials.
BMW 8 Series Gran Coupe
Coupe may typically mean a two-door car, but that is more a habit than a rule. The largest coupe from BMW boasts four doors and a spacious cabin to take advantage of them. The rear seats are still a little cramped for those seeking a career in the NBA, but your average adult should be comfortable, even over a long drive, and the ultra-comfortable leather upholstery ensures as much.
In typical BMW fashion, it has power to spare thanks to a choice between a turbo V6 and a twin-turbo V8, offering up to 523 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque. This allows it to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in under four seconds. If you want to have a little fun with it, the coupe definitely encourages you. Advanced driver-aids like forward collision avoidance, blind-spot monitoring, and a surround-view camera help to take your mind off the stress so you can just enjoy the experience.