Despite rumors to the contrary, the sedan segment is very much alive and kicking. Yes, crossovers are popular, but the tried-and-true formula of four doors and a trunk still remains a viable choice due to its lower center of gravity, sleek looks and, especially in the used market, affordability. The 2016 Hyundai Accent is one such example, boasting a peppy 1.6-liter GDI engine mated to a six-speed manual or automatic transmission. Need something bigger? How about the 2014 Ford Fusion — this versatile vehicle came in a variety of four-cylinder powertrain flavors ranging from a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated mill to a 2.0-liter turbocharged EcoBoost mill and combined with all-wheel drive. We break these models down and more in today’s blog post.
2016 Chevrolet Malibu
Re-imagined for 2016, the mid-size Malibu has gone through a whopping nine iterations. The current version is bigger in size, gaining 2.3 inches in overall length, and the wheelbase stretched out 3.6 inches compared to before giving the four-door a more streamlined appearance. Through greater use of high strength steels, 300 pounds have been dropped improving agility and crash performance.
Technology is another area the Malibu excels. Chevy chose to debut Teen Driver on the vehicle, a feature that allows parents to restrict certain on-board functions to support safer motoring habits and also gives the ability to monitor statistics like maximum speed traveled.
2015 Hyundai Accent
As always, there are few manufacturers capable of matching Hyundai in terms of bang-for-buck. Case in point: the third-generation Accent provides excellent value available in both sedan and hatchback form factors, the latter boasting standard 16-inch wheels while all trims receive project headlamps with LED daytime running lights and a front grille refreshed for this model year.
Driving the front wheels is the Korean manufacturer’s award-winning 1.6-liter Gamma four-cylinder engine, utilizing Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) technology that precisely control the application of fuel for better output and fuel economy as well as reduced carbon emissions. Delivering 137 horsepower, 123 lb-ft of torque and an impressive 38 miles-per-gallon on the highway, the subcompact delivers both fun design and driving characteristics.
2014 Ford Fusion
Want a sedan that’s handsome, sporty and under $15,000? Then take a peek at the Fusion. Ford completely updated the platform in 2013, so the ones five or six years old in particular can currently be found at a great price. Of the many power plant offerings, the 2.0-liter EcoBoost is arguably the driver’s selection paired with a paddle-shift-able six-speed SelectShift Automatic gearbox and all-wheel drive able to send additional torque to the rear for sharper handling.
An entire suite of on-board optional electronic safety equipment helps to keep occupants incident-free, including a lane-keeping system preventing accidental drifting across lane markers; adaptive cruise control automatically speeding up and slowing down the car according to surrounding traffic conditions; and Blind Spot Information System using built-in sensors to detect unseen obstructions on the road.
