BUYING GUIDE to New Mid-Size Cars

Overview

The mid-size car has been the foundation of the American family for years and is commonly referred to as the "family sedan”. In general, a mid-size car can seat four adults comfortably and carry their belongings in a comfortable manner.

Mid-size cars have always been the staple of the auto industry. As the most competitive car class for manufacturers, there are a wide variety of excellent mid-size cars for you to choose from.

Price Range: $14,743 - $36,775

Models

Standard Mid-size

The Honda Accord and Toyota Camry continue to be industry benchmarks in the mid-size car class. For 2009, the Honda Accord receives minor updates from last year's model with a starting price of $20,360 for the popular LX model. Its eye-catching appearance looks to stand the test of time. And measuring two inches longer, one inch taller, and featuring a wheelbase that’s been stretched an additional three inches, the EPA has now grouped the Accord into the “large” class. But it still drives like a Honda Accord. For 2009, the Camry, which was redesigned in 2007, features only small trim updates and starts off at $18,750.

Also for 2009, Nissan's 2-door Altima Coupe continues to earn accolades for its sporty looks and competetive pricing. Nissan has managed to capture more of the performance oriented mid-size consumers by offering more horsepower than the majority of the competition. A hybrid version of the Nissan Altima is also available, and starts off at $25,070.

The Mitsubishi Galant gets a much anticipated new performance trim level, the Ralliart. As Mitsubishi's performance department, Ralliart has reworked the Galant to make the 3.8L engine produce 258hp and has tuned the suspension to allow for peak performance. At $26,999 the Mitsubishi Galant Ralliart is ready to thrill.

Other notable, fairly new mid-size cars are the Pontiac G6, Kia Optima, Hyundai Sonata, and Ford Fusion. All are priced between $16,355 and $17,295 making them affordable to those on a budget. In 2008, the G6 stays mostly unchanged and the Optima receives minor interior improvements with a slightly better tuned engine.

Performance Mid-Size

Performance packed mid-size cars sport more aggressive youthful styling and cutting edge performance to add a little more attitude to the "family sedan" image. Cars like the Mazdaspeed Mazda6, with its 274hp turbocharged 2.3L V6 engine, supply just what the doctor ordered. Edmunds.com calls the Mazda6 a "stunningly capable blend of under-the-top styling and world-class performance in a surprisingly affordable package." The Dodge Charger RT satisfies even the heaviest of lead feet with 350 horsepower coming from a V8 Hemi engine and performance suspension to improve handling. When talking about the Charger’s performance USA Today said, "The Hemi's response to vigorous throttle application is sudden, sensual and satisfying. The Charger shoots into clean air and clear road in little more than a blink."

Hybrid Mid-Size

With oil prices hitting record highs, companies are scrambling to release mid-size hybrid vehicles. The Toyota Camry Hybrid (33/34 city/hwy), Nissan Altima Hybrid (35/33 city/hwy) and Saturn Aura Hybrid (24/32 city/hwy) are all currently available at prices ranging from $22,140 to $25,200. Interestingly, the popular Honda Accord Hybrid has been dropped for 2008. According to Honda (no pun intended), they have come to the conclusion that their hybrid system is more suited for smaller vehicles.

Mid-Size Wagons

If you are in the market for a mid-size car, you may also want to consider similar vehicles with more cargo capacity. Namely, mid-size wagons. This class of vehicle allows for the everyday utility of a mid-size car, but also has the capabilities to carry more cargo behind the 2nd row of seats.

Notable examples in the segment are the Mazda6 Wagon, Subaru Legacy Wagon, and the Subaru Outback Wagon. For those who seek a slightly more luxurious appointments, check out the Volkswagen Passat Wagon, Volvo V70 Wagon, and the Volvo XC70 Wagon

Mid-Size Car Safety Guide

Recent developments in automotive technology have made safety features as commonplace as the seatbelt. Such features include antilock brakes (ABS), side airbags, side curtain airbags and active head restraints. In some cases, advanced safety technology may only be available as costly options, if at all, so it's important to do your research if safety is important to you.