Best Sedans

Kia continues to refresh its lineup and sedan naming convention with the all-new K4. Replacing the Kia Forte, the K4 slots into the lineup below the K5. With the subcompact Rio ending production, the K4 is now the entry point into Kia's sedan lineup.

The K4 compact sedan is longer and wider than its predecessor. Vertically oriented LED headlights and taillights give the K4 a new look that aligns with the updates to the 2025 Kia K5. Up front is the signature Tiger Nose grille and updated fascia that gets a distinctive look on the GT-line trims. The K4 has the look of a fastback but, like the K5, it features a conventional trunk rather than a hatchback.

Significant updates are found in the K4's cabin, where a new display screen measuring almost 30 inches houses the digital driver's display and updated infotainment system. The increased dimensions translate to a roomier interior, giving rear-seat passengers more legroom and headroom than in the outgoing Forte.

The fresh styling inside and out, as well as an available turbocharged engine, make the K4 a strong competitor in a crowded compact car segment that includes such heavy hitters as the Honda Civic, Nissan Sentra, and Toyota Corolla.

The 2025 Kia K4 is expected to arrive in showrooms in the second half of 2024.

If a single letter can represent the ultimate in automotive performance, that letter would be M. Launched from the company's motorsports division, BMW M has represented the highest-performing models in its lineup, starting in the late 1970s with the iconic M1. The M5 joined the U.S. lineup in the mid-1980s, and it has been one of the most exciting and entertaining sports sedans on the road ever since.

Last year, BMW introduced a new-generation 5 Series sedan with a new range of gas and electrified powertrains, but the M5 was noticeably absent from the lineup. For 2025, the M5 returns with styling and features from the redesigned 5 Series but with its first-ever electrified powertrain.

The 2025 BMW M5 is now a plug-in hybrid with a potent turbocharged V8 engine and an electric motor driving all four wheels, delivering 717 horsepower. The most powerful drivetrain ever put into a production M5, this latest version hits 60 mph in just 3.4 seconds, and with enough road, it can reach 190 mph. The M5 can also be driven as a pure EV for around 25 miles.

As the top-level 5 Series, the M5 comes fully loaded with the latest high-tech features and luxurious materials throughout the cabin. This performance machine gets the new curved display already in use in the new 5 Series, and sport seats are both stylish and supportive.

BMW continues to raise the bar on rival sport sedans, but that doesn't mean the competition hasn't been keeping up. The Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG, Audi RS 7, and Porsche Panamera all offer variants that are as quick as the BMW. Still, it remains to be seen if they can deliver the blend of luxury, performance, and comfort that the M5 has always been known for.

The BMW M5 is expected to launch worldwide in November of 2024.

The BMW 5 Series is the German automaker's midsize sedan offering, slotting between the compact 3 Series and full-size 7 Series. The 5 Series was redesigned for the 2024 model year, but the rear-wheel-drive plug-in version was dropped from the lineup. This year, the 550e xDrive plug-in hybrid arrives in showrooms. It represents an intriguing middle ground between the mild hybrid four- and six-cylinder models and the all-electric BMW i5, which is reviewed separately. Not only is the 550e more fuel-efficient, but it also delivers an impressive 483 horsepower. If that's not enough, there is also the high-performance BMW M5 (also reviewed separately) with an incredible 717 hp.

All 5 Series variants adhere to an underlying performance focus that has defined the model since its 1972 debut. This is especially true when comparing it to the more opulent and comfortable Mercedes-Benz E-Class, redesigned last year. Meanwhile, the aging Audi A6 balances performance and comfort equally.

While all these sedans have their merits, the 5 Series stands out for its spacious trunk. Its infotainment system, while comprehensive, may be overwhelming for the less tech-savvy. However, even with these minor drawbacks, the 2025 BMW 5 Series remains a top recommendation in this class. The good news is, you can't go wrong with any of these choices.

One of the newest luxury EVs on the market is the 2025 BMW i5, a fully electric version of the vaunted BMW 5 Series sedan. Both the battery-powered and gas-powered versions offer a smooth ride, cushy interior, and impressive handling dynamics for the class, but the i5 does it with strong range and efficiency. It debuted for the 2024 model year as BMW’s answer to the Tesla Model S, Porsche Taycan, and Mercedes-Benz EQE Sedan.

Now in its second year, the i5 has both single-motor and dual-motor versions for buyers to consider. New for 2025 is the i5 xDrive40, an all-wheel-drive model squeezed between the entry-level i5 eDrive40 and the performance-minded M60 xDrive. All three trim levels use the same 84.3-kWh battery pack. BMW has released official specs for the 2025 i5 xDrive40, while our comments on the other two models are based on 2024 figures.

The i5 retains a classic 5 Series shape, with handsome styling punctuated by an illuminated version of the easily recognizable “kidney” front grille. Compared with the standard 5 Series, the i5 has an elevated stance because the battery and electric components are mounted underneath the vehicle. On the inside, the i5 cabin is dominated by a 14.9-inch center display and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster in front of the driver. Rich materials, comfortable seats, and generous space for passengers are hallmark qualities of all i5 variants.

Smooth, crisp power is the standard for this class. The Mercedes EQE sedan, Porsche Taycan, and Tesla Model S are all known for quick power delivery and a buttery ride. While the EQE sedan is a more direct competitor to the i5, the Taycan and Model S rely more on athletic handling and blazing acceleration in their sportiest forms.

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class was redesigned last year, so the 2025 model rides into the new year with the same impressive features. The E-Class has a handsome exterior design, hybrid powertrain, and an interior that sets a new benchmark for luxe and tech in this class. Unlike past generations, which included a coupe, convertible, and wagon, this E-Class is offered only as a four-door sedan, likely a nod to slowing coupe sales and buyers' preference for SUVs over traditional station wagons.

The new E-Class is available in three models: the 255-horsepower E 350 4Matic (which means all-wheel drive in Mercedes-Benz speak), the 375-hp E 450 4Matic, and the new-for-2025 high-performance 577 hp AMG E53 Hybrid. The 350 offers a turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a new mild hybrid system. The E 450 has an inline six-cylinder engine like the previous E-Class lineup but with a revised hybrid system. The top AMG E 53 model has a modified version of the turbocharged six-cylinder engine and a more potent plug-in hybrid system. The E 450 can hit 60 mph in a brisk 4.4 seconds. But the AMG E 53 Hybrid can reach that mark in 3.7 seconds. Top models have an air suspension system for a smoother ride and four-wheel steering to aid maneuverability, ultimately shaving about 3 feet off the turning radius. However, the AMG models use a specific steel spring suspension designed for high-performance driving.

This generation of E-Class features a new infotainment system, offering an impressive optional display that extends dramatically across the entire length of the dash. When equipped with this option, front-seat passengers can stream video or take selfies and video when the car is parked. The top trim with the Pinnacle package offers an impressive Burmester 4D sound system and active ambient lighting. There's more room in the cabin (and in the trunk) than in the previous-generation E-Class, so everyone will have space to stretch out.

When it comes to exterior dimensions, Mercedes-Benz has capped the overall size of the E-Class. It's just over a half-inch longer than the previous generation model but is 2 inches wider and sits on a slightly longer wheelbase. This allowed designers to carve out more interior space without increasing the exterior dimensions. The main E-Class rivals are close in size. The BMW 5 Series is wider and sits on an inch-longer wheelbase. The Audi A6 is about the same length as the Benz but has a shorter wheelbase. The E-Class is arguably the most stylish of the three.

While it may seem like SUVs have taken over the automotive landscape, offering maximum utility to families of all sizes, there are still several midsize sedans available with style, value, and plenty of comfort. The 2025 Honda Accord is one such sedan, a stalwart of the segment that’s stayed at or near the top of its class for decades.

The current Honda Accord is offered in two main configurations, each using a different powertrain. The base engine is a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder that’s economical and peppy enough for most daily driving needs. The Accord hybrid uses a 2.0-liter engine paired with an electric motor and provides a big increase in fuel economy – as high as 48 mpg combined, according to the EPA. Regardless of which powertrain you choose, the Accord has a spacious interior, plenty of trunk space, and a quiet, refined ride. It also has top safety scores from government agencies, along with a long list of standard driver aids.

The Accord isn’t the only appealing midsize sedan, though. The Toyota Camry has recently gone all-hybrid, offering a number of trims with impressive fuel economy and Toyota’s built-in reputation for reliability. The Camry is also offered with all-wheel drive, unlike the Accord. Other rivals worth considering include the Kia K5 and Hyundai Sonata, which both offer powerful optional engines, and the Nissan Altima, which has competitive pricing and some of the most comfortable seats in the class.

Genesis is Hyundai's luxury brand in the same way Lexus is to Toyota and Acura is to Honda. The 2025 Genesis G90 is the largest sedan in the lineup, supported by the midsize G80 and compact G70. As such, the G90 is a showcase for the brand, showing its capabilities for technology and luxury while delivering all of it at a more affordable price than its European rivals.

You won't be sacrificing features for the price, either. The G90 comes with a comprehensive list of standard features that include power-closing doors, premium leather upholstery, and an automated parking system, just to name a few. There are also no sacrifices in the way the G90 drives. It gets up to highway speeds with confidence while the interior remains calm, quiet, and thanks to massage features, is comfortable on long journeys.

Stacked against the Lexus LS, the Genesis G90 is a bit more expensive, but it makes up for the difference with sharper engine response and is more poised when cornering. Compared to the established German sedans, the G90 can't match the performance of the BMW 7 Series or Mercedes-Benz S-Class, though for many luxury sedan shoppers, that's not likely a priority.

What probably is more important is brand cache and prestige, which BMW and Mercedes have honed over decades of evolution. The big question is, is that prestige worth several thousand dollars?

The 2024 Genesis Electrified G80 is an all-electric version of one of our favorite gasoline-powered midsize luxury sedans, the Genesis G80. The awkwardly named Electrified G80 combines the alluring style, upscale cabin, and top-class tech features of the G80 with a powerful all-wheel-drive, dual-motor powertrain. And the result is one of our favorite EVs, a zero-emissions luxury sedan with a stout 365 horsepower and almost 300 miles of driving range. That’s more standard horsepower than you get in the Mercedes-Benz EQE Sedan. Genesis says the Electrified G80 can sprint from zero to 60 mph in under 4.5 seconds, and it feels even quicker on the road. That matches the acceleration of the more powerful dual-motor version of the Polestar 2. The mighty Tesla Model S leads this pack in both acceleration and driving range.

On the road the G80 EV is smooth and refined, with a comfortable ride and quiet cabin. The artful interior has true luxury credentials, from the G80’s pleated Nappa leather to its exceptionally comfortable massaging seats. Its infotainment screen measures a massive 14.5-inches and the sedan’s rotary shifter is finished in clear crystal. Genesis doesn’t skimp on the details. Unfortunately, the Genesis Electrified G80 doesn’t qualify for federal tax credit and it is not available in all 50 U.S. states.

Mercedes-Benz plans to convert its entire lineup to electric vehicles by 2030, and the EQE Sedan is integral to that plan. In addition to the 2024 EQE Sedan, the German automaker now offers the EQE SUV as well as the EQB SUV, EQS Sedan, and EQS SUV, all of which are fully electric.

The EQE Sedan is a midsize electric luxury sedan with styling similar to the flagship EQS Sedan, which boasts one of the slipperiest designs on the road, created for ultimate efficiency. Some potential customers may be turned off by the curvy design and the solid black grille, but those who can get past the exterior styling will find an attractive interior with high-quality wood and leather trim throughout.

A large infotainment screen at the center of the expansive dashboard seems to extend out from the center console. An additional 12.3-inch driver display can be customized for multiple styles. Interaction with the infotainment system is quite intuitive, but it is all via the touchscreen or voice, as there are virtually no physical controls to be found.

As a fully electric Mercedes-Benz, the EQE Sedan is supremely quiet and smooth on the road, with impressive performance and efficiency. This new EV is offered in multiple performance levels, ranging from the base EQE 350+ to the extreme AMG EQE that delivers more than 600 horsepower. Depending on the trim level, the EQE Sedan can travel up to 300 miles between charges — not quite as far as the Lucid Air, but slightly better than the Genesis Electrified G80, Polestar 2, and upcoming BMW i5.

Hyundai's Ioniq 6 electric sedan picked up steam in 2024, and the company has decided to leave a good thing virtually unchanged for 2025. The streamlined, midsize four-door offers an alternative to SUVs and boxy crossovers, along with a range — up to 342 miles in front-wheel-drive models — that few competitors in its reasonable price range can match.

The Ioniq 6 shares its platform and powertrain with the Hyundai Ioniq 5 electric crossover, but its styling cuts down on interior space, especially in the rear seating area. Cargo capacity is lower than in the boxy, SUV-styled Ioniq 5 as well.

Sedans have fallen out of favor in the U.S., so the Ioniq 6 has few direct rivals. Competition includes the Tesla Model 3 sedan, Ford Mustang Mach-E coupe-like crossover, Polestar 2 hatchback sedan, and BMW i4 sedan. Overall, the Ioniq 6 is longer than any other electric sedan in its price range, and only the wider and taller Mach-E has more total passenger space. The Hyundai also falls short in cargo space and horsepower but still has plenty of oomph and a more comfortable, composed ride than most of the competition.

The only other drawback is that as a Korean-built car, the Ioniq 6 doesn't qualify for a federal income tax credit while the Mustang Mach-E and Model 3, its two North American-built competitors, do. That means both cost less when the tax credit is applied. Other potential rivals cost more and, like the Hyundai, don't qualify for the federal tax credit because they are built overseas.

While the world goes electric, the 2025 BMW 7 Series remains rooted in its gas-powered tradition, its trio of six- and eight-cylinder engines a bulwark against the onslaught of electrons. Only, it's not. Like most automakers envisioning the future, the 7 Series takes aim with the all-electric i7. Bridging the gap is the 750e xDrive plug-in hybrid, combining a six-cylinder engine and 36 miles of rechargeable electric range.

But until the fuel pumps disappear, the 7 Series remains a glorious luxury barge with up to 536 horsepower and similarly powerful technology. Sophisticated engine controls help make the 7 Series the most fuel-efficient in its class, while an air spring suspension and rear-wheel steering deliver a smooth ride and lively handling. Top-shelf leather and interior trim reflect the BMW's near six-figure price, while supremely comfortable seats and an expansive cabin guarantee long-haul comfort. A panoramic dash display stitches together the driver's digital gauges and a 15-inch infotainment touchscreen, while an optional 31-inch dropdown rear display turns the 7 Series into a rolling cinema.

But like many tech showcases, the 7 Series tries too hard. Most functions route through the touchscreen, still a poor substitute for physical buttons when driving a car at 70 mph. A rotary dial controller and voice controls offer workarounds, but some hard switch controls would be better. The 7 Series also leans hard into its sportiness, its oversized grilles, split-level lighting, and aggressive bodywork lacking to some, the elegance of earlier versions.

Compared to other big luxury flagships, the 7 Series is the driver's choice. It's more athletic than the Mercedes-Benz S-Class or Lexus LS, which favor buttery ride comfort and unruffled cruising manners. The rival Audi A8 comes close, but lacks the BMW's skillful balance of power and handling, and hasn't been updated for several years. The Genesis G90 looks smart and is loaded with features, but it's smaller and, therefore, not as roomy as the BMW.

Now entering its third year of production, the Toyota Crown is somewhat of a hybrid-hybrid, a vehicle that defies typical categorization. The fuel-efficient Crown hybrid has the exterior dimensions and cabin space of a traditional large sedan, but it offers a higher, more SUV-like seating position, providing a better view of the road.

The Crown is built only with all-wheel drive, making it a good choice for buyers who live in temperamental climates. Two hybrid systems are available: the standard Toyota hybrid system on lower trims has a total output of 236 horsepower, and the Hybrid Max system on the top Platinum trim boasts a system total of 340 hp and 400 pound-feet of torque. That's plenty of oomph for this shapely sedan. High-tech display screens include a 12.3-inch configurable driver information display to monitor the Crown's efficiency in real time, and a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen that connects wirelessly to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Although its unusual packaging means the Crown doesn't have many direct competitors, rival hybrid sedans include the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid and Honda Accord Hybrid. There are also hybrid SUVs such as the Kia Sportage and Honda CR-V for drivers wanting all-wheel drive. But again, none of these options offer quite the same combination of features and characteristics as the 2025 Toyota Crown.

Now into its third decade of production, the Mercedes-Benz C-Class has evolved into today's benchmark small luxury sedan. It gets just about everything right: performance, comfort, technology, as well as plush, premium feel and design. Regardless of trim level, the C-Class distills the luxury experience of Benz's flagship S-Class sedan into a compact footprint ideal for daily driving around cities and suburbs.

The C-Class starts with the 255-horsepower C 300 base trim, moves up to the C43 with about 60% more power, and peaks with the latest update, the mesmerizing C63 S E Performance. Introduced last year, the C63 is a plug-in hybrid that doesn't purport to offer any meaningful all-electric range (Mercedes has yet to announce a number), but instead combines gas and electric sources for an absurd 671 hp and mountains of low-end torque. While this C63 isn't as visceral as when it was governed by an equally over-clocked V8 engine, it remains atop the small luxe-sedan food chain.

While the C-Class sets the pace for the rest of the class, there are alternatives. The Audi A4, high-performance S4, and BMW 3 Series are the most comparable rivals to the C 300 and C43 trims. The Cadillac CT4 and CT4-V are more affordable homegrown options, but neither can match the Benz's overall quality and refinement. For now, the C63 outclasses even the mighty BMW M3. While the Benz lacks some of the agility and precision of these rivals, it delivers the most well-rounded experience of all.