Midsize Luxury Sedan Buyer's Guide
Roomier than small luxury SUVs but not as pricey, thirsty or cumbersome as the big ones, midsize luxury SUVs might be the most well-balanced luxury vehicles of all. Most offer three-row seating for seven, several offer driving dynamics reminiscent of some sport sedans, and four start in the low $40,000 range or lower. All of them, of course, offer the elevated seating position, cargo flexibility and bigger-is-better profile that continue to drive the increasing popularity of SUVs across the industry.
The next step in luxury makes a terrific final destination
The average transaction price for an entry-level luxury car is about $40,000 nowadays. The average price for a flagship luxury sedan is closer to $100,000. That's a big gap, and these midsize luxury sedans are here to fill it with an average selling price of around $55,000.
Today's mid-lux lineup is more diverse than ever. Turbocharged 4-cylinder engines are increasingly common, while some models have dropped the V8 altogether. Other trends include all-wheel drive and even hybrid powertrains. Still, the segment remains defined by V6 power and rear-wheel drive.
And while the cars have leaned sportier in recent years, midsize luxury sedans still split the difference between famed drivers' cars like the smaller BMW 3 Series and big cruisers like the Mercedes-Benz S-Class.
Starting Price: $53,395
Larger, lighter and loaded with features, the newest 5 Series has a sharp focus on driving enthusiasm and modern luxury. Read More
Starting Price: $47,490
The CTS combines sharp style, high tech and a surprising fun-to-drive factor. Read More
Starting Price: $42,745
The G80 separates itself from the pack by offering luxury amenities, an excellent warranty and V6 or V8 power at lower prices than rival models. Read More
Starting Price: $51,295
The Q70 is one of the smaller entries in the midsize luxury sedan segment but also among the most fun to drive. Read More
Starting Price: $46,085
Lincoln's newest flagship sedan offers a unique mix of old-school cruiser luxury and up-to-the-minute automotive tech. Read More
Starting Price: $53,945
The famed E-Class was totally redone just last year with forward-thinking design and cutting-edge technology. Read More
What's New and What's Next
Last year was a big one for the segment. The E-Class and 5 Series were both completely redesigned, the Genesis brand was born, and Lincoln brought back the Continental. The 2018 model year is a bit quieter.
Engine Evolution
Not so long ago, virtually every entry in the midsize luxury sedan segment offered available V8 power. But as a result of rising gas prices and improved engine technologies, turbocharged 4-cylinder engines -- unheard of in the segment until recently -- are now about as common as big V8s.
Diesel Power
Today's diesel engines are so smooth and quiet that they're an excellent fit for luxury cars. They've been coming and going in this segment, and right now only the BMW 5 Series and Jaguar XF are available with diesel power.
Hybrid, Too
If you prefer efficiency of the gas-electric variety, you can get hybrid power in the Acura RLX, BMW 5 Series, Infiniti Q70, Lexus GS and Volvo S90.
Weather Warriors
In addition to the wide variety of powertrains outlined, each of these models is available with the added traction of all-wheel drive.
Value Champ
The Lexus GS 350 took home our most recent Best Resale Value and 5-Year Cost to Own awards in the mid-level luxury car segment.
