When it comes to finding the best sedan for 2024, you have quite a few excellent options to consider. As you begin your search, keep in mind your priorities – whether that’s fuel efficiency, performance, cutting-edge tech features, or simply value for the money. The good news is several sedans shine in these areas while also delivering the practicality and comfort sedans are known for. Performance comes from a choice of capable four-cylinder engines, including a sporty 290-horsepower turbo option. Generous standard features, user-friendly tech, and Hyundai’s excellent warranty coverage mean you get a lot for your money.
As you can see, today’s top sedans cater to a range of needs. Test driving the Accord, Sonata and 3 Series will help you determine which best fits your priorities. Any of these models deliver comfort, quality and the latest amenities that make sedans so appealing. So take your time, have some fun shopping around, and enjoy picking out your favorite four-door.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Hyundai Sonata
The 2023 Sonata boasts an eye-catching fastback silhouette characterized by sleek lines, a wide stance, and hidden LED lighting elements that contribute to its high-tech exterior appeal. The interior of the Sonata is designed with premium materials and offers ambient lighting options, creating a luxurious and inviting atmosphere. The layout of the interior is driver-focused, prioritizing convenience and accessibility.
The Sonata offers two 4-cylinder gas engines to choose from: a 2.5L engine producing 191 hp and a turbocharged 1.6L engine with 180 hp. These engine options provide a range of performance capabilities to suit different preferences. In terms of fuel efficiency, the Sonata offers a competitive range, with combined mpg ratings ranging from 27 to 31, depending on the specific configuration chosen.
For those seeking a sportier driving experience, the Sonata N Line model is equipped with a potent 290 hp turbo 2.5L engine, enabling impressive acceleration from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.7 seconds. The Sonata comfortably seats five passengers and offers a range of desirable features. Notable options include heated and ventilated front seats, enhancing both comfort and climate control. The interior also incorporates dual-zone climate control, a user-friendly 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and wireless device charging, creating a tech-savvy and convenient environment for both the driver and passengers.
The 2023 Sonata prioritizes safety and reliability. It has earned top safety ratings from both the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) and NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration). These high safety ratings are achieved thanks to the inclusion of standard driver aids and reinforced safety features. Hyundai offers a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty for the Sonata, providing peace of mind to owners. In terms of reliability, the Sonata is expected to perform at an average level, offering a dependable driving experience for its owners.
Honda Civic
The Honda Civic, since its debut in 1972, has been a symbol of reliability, fuel efficiency, and fun-to-drive character. Its design evolution has seen it transform from a small, lightweight car to a sleek, modern vehicle that continues to impress. The first-generation Civic was a game-changer, offering features like an independent front suspension, front disc brakes, and a CVCC engine, which were not commonly found in other cars at that time. The third-generation Civic, introduced in 1984, had a sleeker and more 1980s-looking design, available in various body styles.
Performance-wise, the 2024 Honda Civic offers feisty engine options, including a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder with 180 horsepower and 177 pound-feet of torque. The base engine is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 158 horsepower and 138 pound-feet of torque. The Civic’s ride is compliant yet sporty, making it a joy to drive whether you’re commuting or on a weekend road trip.
The interior of the 2024 Honda Civic is designed with ergonomics in mind, offering controls at your fingertips, clear sightlines, and a comfortable driver’s seat. It also offers amenities like dual-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and an 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat.
In terms of safety, the 2023 Honda Civic Sedan achieved an overall five-star crash safety rating from the NHTSA, and a Top Safety Pick award from the IIHS. It also boasts excellent safety ratings thanks to a comprehensive list of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, road-departure mitigation, lane-departure warning, forward-collision warning and mitigation, traffic-jam assist, driver-attention monitoring, and traffic-sign recognition. The Honda Civic also has a strong reliability history, with a J.D. Power rating of 82 out of 100, including 80/100 for quality and reliability. The price range varies depending on the model and features, but the MSRP starts at $23,950. The Civic also holds its value well, making it a good investment for those looking for a car with a strong res
Toyota Corolla
The Toyota Corolla, a staple in the compact car segment, is known for its blend of practicality, reliability, and value. The 2024 model continues this tradition, offering a range of features and options that cater to a variety of drivers. The Corolla’s design is both stylish and functional. Its low, wide stance and sporty front fascia give it an aggressive look, while the available 18-inch graphite-colored alloy wheels add to its bold profile. The interior layout is thoughtfully designed, with controls placed within easy reach and available SofTex®-trimmed seats providing comfort and support. The 8-inch touchscreen display offers wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility, ensuring entertainment is always on demand.
The Corolla offers a base 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 169 horsepower, providing sufficient power for everyday driving. For those seeking more performance, the GR Corolla features a robust 300-horsepower turbocharged three-cylinder engine. The Corolla also offers a hybrid model, which is highly fuel-efficient, with the EPA estimating it will earn up to 50 mpg city and 43 mpg highway.
The Corolla’s interior is designed with comfort and convenience in mind. The available leather-wrapped steering wheel and piano-black accents add a touch of luxury, while the available moonroof allows for an open-air experience. The Corolla also offers a 60/40 split fold-down rear seat, providing flexibility for cargo and passenger needs. Safety is a key focus for the Corolla, which comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense™ 3.0, a suite of advanced safety features. The 2021 model received a 5-Star Overall Safety Rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and was named a 2021 TOP SAFETY PICK by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
The Corolla’s reliability is well-documented, with a rating of 4.5 out of 5.0, ranking it first out of 36 for compact cars. The average annual repair cost is $362, which is lower than the average for compact cars and all vehicle models. In terms of pricing, the Corolla offers good value for money. While specific pricing for the 2024 model is not available at the time of writing, the 2023 Corolla Hybrid SE AWD had a base price of $27,610. The Corolla’s long-term quality rating of 76.5, compared to an average of 43 across makes and models, further underscores its value.
Volkswagen Jetta GLI
The 2023 Jetta GLI showcases Volkswagen’s sleek and aggressive styling, with a sporty honeycomb grille, LED lighting, dual exhaust tips, and available 18-inch black alloy wheels with the Black Package. Inside, the driver-focused cockpit features leather/suede sport seats, red accent stitching, stainless steel pedals, and customizable ambient lighting. Performance comes from a 2.0L turbocharged engine producing 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft torque, enabling brisk acceleration. Buyers can choose between a standard 6-speed manual or available 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. An electronic limited-slip differential, upgraded brakes, and sport suspension sharpen handling dynamics.
Interior amenities include dual-zone climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, wireless charging and an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto integration. The 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster keeps the driver informed for safety. Standard advanced driver aids like forward collision warning and blind spot monitoring also contribute to safety. Reliability and owner satisfaction are above average. Pricing starts at $31,585 MSRP for the well-equipped Autobahn trim. Generous standard features and exhilarating performance make the 2023 Jetta GLI a strong value as a sporty, practical sedan.
BMW 3 Series
The BMW 3 Series has long set the benchmark for sport sedans, blending luxury, performance, and refinement better than any rival. As the 2023 model year approaches, the seventh generation 3 Series continues this tradition with sleek styling, athletic handling, and a range of powerful engines.
On the outside, the 3 Series exhibits classic BMW styling cues with its long hood, short front overhang, and signature kidney grille. Design enhancements for 2023 include standard M Sport styling elements like more aggressive front and rear bumpers, shadowline trim, and dual exhaust tips. The M340i and M3 models take the sporty aesthetic even further. Inside, the 3 Series cabin exudes quality with soft-touch surfaces, ambient lighting, a digital instrument cluster, and the latest iDrive infotainment system with a frameless 14.9-inch touchscreen. Heated sports seats and 3-zone climate control ensure passenger comfort.
The 3 Series impresses with eager acceleration and nimble handling. The base 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder generates 255 horsepower, hitting 60 mph in 5.6 seconds with rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive available. For more power, the M340i packs a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six with 382 hp while the M3 Competition reaches 503 hp for supercar-rivaling speed. An advanced adaptive suspension, near-perfect 50/50 weight distribution, and responsive steering give the 3 Series an agile, planted feel around corners.
Every 3 Series comes well equipped with the latest driver aids like blind spot monitoring, forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. The IIHS gives the sedan high marks for crashworthiness too. With so many strengths, it’s no surprise the 3 Series continues to be BMW’s most popular model worldwide. For those seeking a luxury car blending style, performance, comfort and cutting-edge tech, the 2023 BMW 3 Series is hard to beat.
Hyundai Elantra
The 2023 Hyundai Elantra continues to impress as a stylish and value-packed compact sedan. Its eye-catching exterior exhibits Hyundai’s latest “Parametric Dynamics” design language with sharp lines and unique details like the patterned grille and intricate wheel designs. Inside, the Elantra provides a modern tech-focused cabin wrapped in premium materials and packed with features. Under the hood, most Elantras utilize a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine making 147 horsepower, paired to an efficient continuously variable transmission. This peppy powertrain returns up to 33 mpg city and 42 mpg highway. For even more excitement, the 201-horsepower Elantra N Line turbo model hits 60 mph in under 7 seconds while still delivering 28/36 mpg city/highway.
The Elantra really shines when it comes to interior accommodations. The redesigned cabin has spacious seating for five lined in soft-touch surfaces and available leatherette or leather upholstery. Heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and a power moonroof further enhance comfort while a wireless charging pad and multiple USB ports cater to device connectivity. The standard 8-inch touchscreen is easy to use but higher trims get a 10.25-inch display with integrated navigation. The Elantra also offers the latest safety aids like forward collision warning, lane keeping assist, blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert.
The 2023 Elantra continues to present excellent value in the compact segment. Prices start around $20,500 for the well-equipped base SE trim, ranging up to $27,000 for the top Limited model. Factor in Hyundai’s long warranty coverage and the Elantra is a smart, affordable choice for shoppers focused on refinement, technology and practicality.
Mercedes-Benz C-Class
The Mercedes-Benz C-Class enters its seventh generation for 2023 with an athletic yet elegant design that embodies the brand’s “Sensual Purity” styling language. Sharply creased body lines and a prominent grille give the C-Class a bold front fascia while the flowing roofline and short rear deck accentuate its sporty profile. Inside, passengers are treated to premium materials like open-pore wood and aluminum trim along with the latest technology features like a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and 11.9-inch touchscreen.
Motivation comes from a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing a robust 255 horsepower, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The powertrain delivers brisk acceleration while maintaining refined composure. An adaptive suspension with selectable drive modes gives the C-Class agile handling for a sedan in this segment. Drivers also benefit from the latest Mercedes safety innovations like automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring and lane keeping assist.
The 2023 C-Class continues to set benchmarks in the competitive luxury compact segment. Mercedes offers the sedan in well-equipped Premium and Exclusive trims starting around $43,000, ranging up to the $55,000 Pinnacle flagship model. For the price, discerning drivers get a polished sports sedan brimming with both innovation and character.
As you can see, there are several excellent sedan options to choose from in 2023. Whether you prioritize fuel efficiency, performance, luxury features, or simply great value, models like the Honda Accord, Hyundai Sonata, BMW 3 Series and more aim to satisfy. As you test drive sedans, pay attention to the driving dynamics, cabin comfort, interior materials, and standard features. Determine which best aligns with your top priorities. The good news is you really can’t go wrong with today’s top-rated sedans. Each offers the amenities, styling and reliability sedan buyers expect, along with the latest safety and technology features. Take your time to research models and take some test drives. Before you know it, you’ll be driving off in your favorite new four-door.
