Car and Driver ranks vehicles based on thorough tests and real-world driving experiences by our experts.
Each year, we test over 400 cars and use around 200 data points, such as acceleration, handling, comfort, cargo space, fuel efficiency, value, and driving enjoyment, to rank the best mid-size family sedans.
We take these rankings seriously to ensure you get all the information you need about the cars you’re interested in.
1. 2024 Honda Accord / Accord Hybrid
Even in today’s era of SUVs, there’s still a need for a straightforward and budget-friendly mid-size family sedan, and the 2024 Honda Accord fits the bill perfectly.
The basic models of this four-door car come with a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine, but most versions have a fuel-efficient four-cylinder hybrid engine. All models are front-wheel drive. The Accord was redesigned last year, and it now looks better than it has in years.
Inside, it has spacious seating for five, a large trunk, and all the modern tech features you would expect. The main reason we love it is its smooth driving experience. With precise steering, a comfortable suspension, and reliable handling, driving the Accord is a pleasure.
In short, the Accord has it all, which is why it’s on our 10Best Cars and Editors’ Choice lists again for 2024.
| Feature | 2023 Honda Accord EX | 2023 Honda Accord Touring Hybrid |
|---|---|---|
| Vehicle Type | Front-engine, Front-wheel drive | Front-engine, Front-motor, Front-wheel drive |
| Price (Base/As Tested) | $30,705/$30,705 | $38,985/$38,985 |
| Engine | Turbocharged 1.5L I4 | 2.0L I4 Atkinson + AC motor |
| Horsepower | 192 hp @ 6000 rpm | 204 hp (combined) |
| Torque | 192 lb-ft @ 1700 rpm | 247 lb-ft (combined) |
| Transmission | Continuously variable | Direct drive |
| Fuel Economy (Combined/City/Highway) | 32/29/37 mpg (EPA) | 44/46/41 mpg (EPA) |
| Observed Fuel Economy | 36 mpg | 38 mpg |
| 0-60 mph | 7.3 sec | 6.5 sec |
| Braking, 70-0 mph | 184 ft | 173 ft |
2. 2025 Toyota Camry Hybrid
The Toyota Camry Hybrid might not be the most exciting choice, but it is popular because it’s affordable, spacious, and efficient. For 2025, this family car has a new look and is now only available with two hybrid options, instead of the previous range that included a V-6 and non-hybrid engines.
You can get it with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, and it offers up to 232 horsepower. Although Toyota hasn’t confirmed it yet, there might be a more powerful plug-in-hybrid version called the Camry Prime.
The interior has been updated with modern tech and a design inspired by the larger Crown sedan. The Camry Hybrid is still a mid-size car aiming to compete with the Honda Accord and Hyundai Sonata.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Vehicle Type | front-engine, front- or front-and rear-motor, front- or all-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door sedan |
| PRICE (FWD) | LE: $29,495, SE: $31,795, XLE: $34,495, XSE: $35,695 |
| PRICE (AWD) | LE: $31,020, SE: $33,320, XLE: $36,020, XSE: $37,220 |
| POWERTRAINS (FWD) | DOHC 16-valve Atkinson-cycle 2.5-liter inline-4, 184 hp, 163 lb-ft + 2 AC motors, 134 hp, 153 lb-ft (combined output: 225 hp; 0.6-kWh lithium-ion battery pack); continuously variable automatic transmission |
| POWERTRAINS (AWD) | DOHC 16-valve Atkinson-cycle 2.5-liter inline-4, 184 hp, 163 lb-ft + 3 AC motors; front: 134 hp, 153 lb-ft; rear: 40 hp, 62 lb-ft (combined output: 232 hp; 0.6-kWh lithium-ion battery pack); continuously variable automatic front/direct-drive rear transmissions |
| DIMENSIONS | Wheelbase: 111.2 in, Length: 193.5 in, Width: 72.4 in, Height: 56.9 in |
| Passenger Volume, F/R | 53–54/46 ft3 |
| Trunk Volume | 15 ft3 |
| Curb Weight (C/D est) | 3500–3800 lb |
| PERFORMANCE (C/D EST) | 60 mph: 7.3–7.6 sec, 1/4-Mile: 15.4–15.6 sec, Top Speed: 115 mph |
| EPA FUEL ECONOMY (C/D EST) | Combined/City/Highway: 44–51/44–53/43–50 mpg |
3. 2025 Kia K5
Kia makes some really good cars for different needs. They have the Telluride, a great big SUV with three rows of seats. There’s also the Carnival minivan, which is packed with cool features. And if you don’t need a big car, there’s the K5 sedan, perfect for families.
The K5 competes with cars like the Honda Accord, which is known for being really good. But the K5 gives you a lot for what you pay. Most K5s have a 2.5-liter engine and come with front-wheel drive. You can also get all-wheel drive on certain models.
The most powerful K5 is the K5 GT, with 290 horsepower. It’s really fun to drive. The K5 is similar to the Hyundai Sonata, but they feel a bit different to drive.
The K5 comes with cool features like LED headlights, wireless connections for your phone, and safety features like rear cross-traffic alert. These things make driving the K5 easier and safer.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L I-4 & 88-kW motor & 1.04-kWh & Lithium Ion battery hybrid powertrain |
| Maximum Power | 225 hp |
| Maximum Torque | 163 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm |
| Transmission | Variable-Speed Automatic |
| Drive Wheels | Front-wheel drive |
| Cargo Space | 428 L (15.1 ft³) |
| Wheel Size | 16-inch Alloy |
| Infotainment System | 9.00-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto |
| Warranty | 36 Months / 60,000 km (Comprehensive), 60 Months / 100,000 km (Powertrain), 36 Months / 9,999,999 km (Roadside), 120 Months / 240,000 km (Battery), 36 Months / 60,000 km (Paint), 60 Months / 9,999,999 km (Corrosion) |
Efficiency & Range
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| City Rating | 4.6 L/100km |
| Highway Rating | 4.6 L/100km |
| Combined | 4.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Type | Unleaded |
| Fuel Capacity | 49 L (1.04 kWh) |
| Battery Type | 1.04-kWh & Lithium Ion battery |
| Fuel Range | 961 km |
| Battery Range | N/A |
| Total Range | N/A |
| Emission CO2 kg/year | 121 |
Dimensions, Weight, and Seating Capacity
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Length | 192.7 in |
| Width | 72.4 in |
| Height | 56.9 in |
| Weight | 3494 lbs |
| Seating Capacity | 2+3 seats |
| Cargo Space | 428 L (15.1 ft³) |
Safety Ratings and Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| NHTSA Rating | 5.0 Overall, 5 for side impact, 4 for frontal crash |
| Airbags | 8 (Front, Side, Side Curtain, Knee) |
| Standard Safety Features | Anti-collision System, Lane Departure Warning, Hill Holder, Low Tire Pressure Monitor |
| Additional Safety Features | LED, Projector Beam, Auto Highbeam headlights, Rear Camera Parking Assistance |
Performance
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| 0-60 mph | 7.3–7.6 sec |
| 1/4 Mile | 15.4–15.6 sec |
| Top Speed | 115 mph |
| EPA Fuel Economy | 44–51 mpg combined |
Pricing
| Trim | Price |
|---|---|
| LE | $28,400 |
| SE | $30,700 |
| XLE | $33,400 |
| XSE | $34,600 |
| LE AWD | $31,020 |
| SE AWD | $33,320 |
| XLE AWD | $36,020 |
| XSE AWD | $37,220 |
4. 2024 Hyundai Sonata
The Hyundai Sonata got a makeover to stand out in the family sedan category. It got some updates to its look, both in the front and back, along with new headlights and taillights. Inside, there are some big changes too.
The car keeps its current engine options, including a regular one with 191 horsepower and a sportier N Line model with 290 horsepower. Now, you can also get all-wheel drive if you don’t go for the turbocharged engine.
The hybrid version, with 192 horsepower, is still available and it’s great on fuel. While it might not drive as well as some competitors like the Honda Accord, its stylish design and good value make it a top pick for families. That’s why it’s on our list of best cars for 2024.
2023 Hyundai Sonata Sel Plus Specifications:
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Vehicle Type | front-engine, front-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door sedan |
| Price | $33,390 (Base), $33,600 (As Tested) |
| Engine | turbocharged DOHC 16-valve inline-4 |
| Displacement | 98 in3, 1598 cm3 |
| Power | 180 hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Torque | 195 lb-ft @ 1500 rpm |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
| Chassis | Suspension (F/R): struts, coil springs, anti-roll bar/multilink, coil springs, anti-roll bar |
| Brakes | Front: 12.0-in vented disc, Rear: 11.2-in vented disc |
| Tires | Pirelli P Zero All Season 245/40R-19 94W M+S |
| Dimensions | Wheelbase: 111.8 in, Length: 192.9 in, Width: 73.2 in, Height: 56.9 in |
| Passenger Volume | Front: 62 ft3, Rear: 42 ft3 |
| Trunk Volume | 16 ft3 |
| Curb Weight | 3350 lb |
| 0-30 mph | 2.6 sec |
| 0-60 mph | 7.1 sec |
| 0-100 mph | 18.4 sec |
| 1/4 Mile | 15.5 sec @ 92 mph |
| Top Speed | 140 mph (estimated) |
| Braking | 70-0 mph: 175 ft |
| Roadholding | 300-ft Skidpad: 0.86 g |
| Fuel Economy | Observed: 30 mpg, 75-mph Highway: 36 mpg, 75-mph Highway Range: 570 mi |
| EPA Fuel Economy | Combined: 31 mpg, City: 27 mpg, Highway: 37 mpg |
2021 Hyundai Sonata N Line Specifications:
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Vehicle Type | front-engine, front-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door sedan |
| Engine Type | turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 16-valve inline-4, aluminum block and head, port and direct fuel injection |
| Displacement | 152 in3, 2497 cm3 |
| Power | 290 hp @ 5800 rpm |
| Torque | 311 lb-ft @ 1650 rpm |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
| Chassis | Suspension (F/R): struts/multilink, Brakes (F/R): 13.6-in vented disc/12.8-in disc, Tires: Continental PremiumContact 6, 245/40R-19 (98Y) |
| Dimensions | Wheelbase: 111.8 in, Length: 192.9 in, Width: 73.2 in, Height: 56.9 in, Passenger volume: 104 ft3, Trunk volume: 16 ft3, Curb weight: 3541 lb |
| 0-60 mph | 5.0 sec |
| 100 mph | 12.1 sec |
| 130 mph | 22.2 sec |
| 1/4 Mile | 13.6 sec @ 106 mph |
| Top Speed | 155 mph (estimated) |
| Braking | 70-0 mph: 152 ft |
| Roadholding | 300-ft-dia skidpad: 0.93 g |
| Fuel Economy | Observed: 23 mpg, 75-mph Highway: 33 mpg, Highway Range: 520 mi |
| EPA Fuel Economy | Combined: 27 mpg, City: 23 mpg, Highway: 33 mpg |
5. 2024 Nissan Altima
The Nissan Altima is like the go-to choice for lots of American car buyers. People like it because it’s affordable, saves gas, and is dependable and comfy. The basic engine is strong enough and can go up to 39 miles per gallon on highways.
If you want more power, there’s an option for a turbocharged engine that can go up to 248 horsepower, but it uses more expensive fuel. You can also get all-wheel drive if you want.
Inside, there’s lots of space, comfy seats, a big screen for entertainment, and enough room for your stuff. Plus, it’s got safety features as standard. But if you’re looking for a thrilling drive, you won’t find it here.
The transmission helps save fuel but doesn’t make the car feel very lively. However, the Altima looks pretty stylish, especially with some cool optional wheels.
Specifications
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Vehicle Type | Front-engine, all-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door sedan |
| Price | Base: $29,145, As Tested: $37,030 |
| Engine | DOHC 16-valve inline-4, aluminum block and head, direct fuel injection |
| Displacement | 152 in3, 2488 cm3 |
| Power | 182 hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 178 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm |
| Transmission | Continuously variable automatic |
| Chassis | Suspension (F/R): struts/multilink, Brakes (F/R): 11.7-in vented disc/11.5-in disc, Tires: Hankook Kinergy GT, 235/40R-19 92V M+S |
| Dimensions | Wheelbase: 111.2 in, Length: 192.9 in, Width: 72.9 in, Height: 57.3 in, Passenger Volume (F/R): 56/43 ft3, Trunk Volume: 15 ft3, Curb Weight: 3500 lb |
| Fuel Economy | EPA: 30/26/36 mpg, Observed: 24 mpg, 75-mph Highway Driving: 35 mpg, 75-mph Highway Range: 560 mi |
Performance
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| 0-60 mph | 7.6 sec |
| 1/4-Mile | 15.9 sec @ 89 mph |
| 100 mph | 20.7 sec |
| Rolling Start, 5–60 mph | 8.1 sec |
| Top Gear, 30–50 mph | 4.6 sec |
| Top Gear, 50–70 mph | 5.5 sec |
| Top Speed (gov limited) | 119 mph |
| Braking, 70–0 mph | 164 ft |
| Roadholding, 300-ft Skidpad | 0.89 g |
Additional Features
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Trims | SL trim (19-inch wheels, moonroof, leather seats, 12.3-inch touchscreen, 9-speaker Bose audio) |
| Options | External lighting with logo, rear spoiler, illuminated kick plates, floor/trunk mats, splash guards |
| Safety Features | Nissan Safety Shield 360, ProPILOT Assist, Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Rear Automatic Braking, Blind Spot Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Departure Warning, High Beam Assist |
| Infotainment | NissanConnect infotainment system, Voice Recognition, Bluetooth, 7-inch touchscreen, 12.3-inch infotainment screen (optional), Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay (optional) |
Interior and Cargo
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Interior | Spacious and smart, matte chrome-tone accents, available carbon-fiber design trim, five available leather-appointed seats |
| Cargo | Trunk space: up to 15.4 cu. ft., 60/40-split second row for expanded cargo capacity |
Connectivity
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Connectivity | NissanConnect Services, Voice Recognition, wireless smartphone connectivity, Wi-Fi Hotspot, SiriusXM with 360L, Bose Premium Audio System |
| MyNISSAN App | Emergency response services, remote connectivity features, customizable alerts, and more |
Safety
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Safety | Nissan Safety Shield 360, ProPILOT Assist, Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Rear Automatic Braking, Blind Spot Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Departure Warning, High Beam Assist |
Additional Features
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Accessories | Accessories to protect and customize the vehicle, such as floor/trunk mats, splash guards, and more |
Other Features
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Suspension | Independent rear suspension featuring monotube rear shocks |
| Handling | Active Ride Control, Intelligent Trace Control, electronic parking brake with Automatic Brake Hold |
Warranty
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles basic warranty |
6. 2025 Subaru Legacy
The 2025 Subaru Legacy car is a lot like its cousin, the Outback. Even though they look different, they have a lot in common under the hood. Both have four-cylinder engines and all-wheel drive.
The Legacy is more like a regular car, while the Outback is more rugged-looking, like an SUV. The Legacy has lots of cool features and drives smoothly, but it’s not as quiet or fuel-efficient as some other cars like the Honda Accord or Toyota Camry.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| VEHICLE TYPE | front-engine, all-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door sedan |
| PRICE AS TESTED | $30,090 (base price: $27,845) |
| ENGINE TYPE | DOHC 16-valve flat-4, aluminum block and heads, direct fuel injection |
| Displacement | 152 cu in, 2498 cc |
| Power | 182 hp @ 5800 rpm |
| Torque | 176 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm |
| TRANSMISSION | continuously variable automatic |
Dimensions
| DIMENSIONS | Value |
|---|---|
| Wheelbase | 108.3 |
| Length | 190.6 |
| Width | 72.4 |
| Height | 59.1 |
| Passenger volume | 103.0 |
| Trunk volume | 15.0 |
| Curb weight | 3540.0 |
C/d Test Results
| Zero to 60 mph | Standing ¼-mile | Top speed (governor limited) |
|---|---|---|
| 8.0 sec | 16.2 sec @ 88 mph | 130 mph |
C/d Fuel Economy
| 75-mph highway driving | Highway range |
|---|---|
| mpg | miles |
| 34 | 620 |
Epa Fuel Economy
| Vehicle | Fuel Economy |
|---|---|
| EPA FUEL ECONOMYCombined/city/highway | 30/27/35 mpg |
7. 2024 Chevrolet Malibu
The 2024 Chevrolet Malibu is an older model, but it’s still doing well in the mid-size sedan market. It’s never been the best in its class, but it’s a solid choice for families because it looks good, rides comfortably, and handles well.
The Malibu has one engine option: a turbocharged four-cylinder with a continuously variable automatic transmission. This setup provides enough power for city driving, but it doesn’t match the performance of some competitors’ more powerful engines.
However, the Malibu’s interior quality is not great, using a lot of cheap plastics, and its list of standard features is shorter than what you get with rivals like the Honda Accord and Hyundai Sonata.
In short, while the Malibu has its good points, its drawbacks are hard to ignore. It’s a decent car, but not as good overall as some of its competitors.
| Specifications | Value |
|---|---|
| VEHICLE TYPE | Front-engine, front-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door sedan |
| PRICE AS TESTED | $25,840 (base price: $25,095) |
| ENGINE TYPE | Turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 16-valve inline-4, aluminum block and head, direct fuel injection |
| Displacement | 91 cu in, 1490 cc |
| Power | 160 hp @ 5700 rpm |
| Torque | 184 lb-ft @ 2500 rpm |
| TRANSMISSION | Continuously variable automatic |
| CHASSIS | Suspension (F/R): struts/multilink, Brakes (F/R): 11.8-in vented disc, 11.3-in disc, Tires: Continental ProContact TX, 245/45R-18 96H M+S TPC |
| DIMENSIONS | Wheelbase: 111.4 in, Length: 193.8 in, Width: 73.0 in, Height: 57.6 in, Passenger volume: 108 cu ft, Trunk volume: 16 cu ft, Curb weight: 3184 lb |
| C/D TEST RESULTS | Zero to 60 mph: 7.8 sec, Zero to 100 mph: 22.3 sec, Zero to 120 mph: 41.6 sec, Rolling start, 5–60 mph: 9.1 sec, Top gear, 30–50 mph: 4.3 sec, Top gear, 50–70 mph: 5.8 sec, Standing ¼-mile: 16.1 sec @ 87 mph, Top speed (governor limited, mfr’s claim): 130 mph, Braking, 70–0 mph: 167 ft, Roadholding, 300-ft-dia skidpad: 0.88 g |
| C/D FUEL ECONOMY | Observed: 25 mpg, 75-mph highway driving: 34 mpg, Highway range: 540 miles |
| EPA FUEL ECONOMY | Combined/city/highway: 32/29/36 mpg |
FAQs
1. What are the best mid-size family sedans for 2024 and 2025?
Some of the best mid-size family sedans for 2024 and 2025 include the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Hyundai Sonata, Mazda6, Kia K5, and Subaru Legacy.
2. Which mid-size sedan offers the best fuel efficiency?
The Honda Accord is known for its excellent fuel efficiency, making it a great choice for families looking to save on gas.
3. Are there any all-wheel drive options available in mid-size sedans?
Yes, the Subaru Legacy offers all-wheel drive as a standard feature, providing added safety and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions.
4. Which mid-size sedan has the best safety features?
The Subaru Legacy is renowned for its comprehensive suite of safety features, including Subaru’s EyeSight driver assist technology.
5. What mid-size sedan offers the best value for money?
The Hyundai Sonata is often praised for its combination of affordability, standard features, and warranty coverage, making it a great value for families.