Super Sized
2014–the year of the full-sized sedan?
Not long ago, only a handful of models were left to carry the torch for full-sized sedans. Their demographic was much older than the average car buyer; perhaps nostalgic for the days when these large sedans were the norm.
This year marks a renaissance of the big car. A growing number of upwardly mobile executives and families are joining in the fold finding the space and level of luxury inviting.
Though fuel efficiency is a factor when deciding on a full-sized sedan, it is performance that makes a better case for buying one. It comes down to this rule: The smoother, quieter and more effortless the drive, the better. Active safety features – such as lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring and active cruise control – are finding their way onto these cars. Buyers also want a lot of the features found on more premium products without having to pay the extra cost for the badge and the image.
Here are some of the choices facing this new breed of full-sized sedan buyers.
BUICK LaCROSSE: Designed to redefine the brand in 2009, the LaCrosse brought both new and traditional Buick customers to the fold. Extensive revisions for 2014 will address some of the concerns brought in the first models. Power comes from either the 2.4 liter eAssist or the 3.6 liter V6.
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CHEVROLET IMPALA: This is the most talked about big sedan of the year. No longer the rental car special, the Impala takes its mantle as the top Chevrolet sedan since 1964. The first models will have the powerful 3.6 liter V6, however a 2.5 liter four-cylinder and the eAssist will join the lineup by wintertime.
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CHRYSLER 300: There is a model for everyone in this lineup. You have the choice of the Pentastar 3.6 liter V6 or the 5.7 liter HEMI V8 across the line. The top model of them all is the SRT – 6.4 liter HEMI V8 power. Within the line are a wide variety of luxury trims and options, including the sporty S model.
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DODGE CHARGER: The bruiser amongst this crowd continues on with its lineup of V6 and V8 engines and a muscle car attitude. Though the R/T flexes its muscles, no one can match the SRT version with its track-tuned suspension and 6.4 liter HEMI V8.
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FORD TAURUS: As it remains on a platform originally developed by Volvo, the Taurus is Ford’s primary full-size offering. A 3.5 liter V6 is standard, the SHO offers up the twin-turbocharged Ecoboost version of the same engine. Otherwise, the Taurus remains a strong contender for the brand.
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HYUNDAI AZERA: If the Sonata is not enough, Hyundai offers up this very luxurious and stylish big sedan. Powered by a 3.3litre V6, the Azera moves a spacious cabin around with ease.
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KIA CADENZA: New for 2014, the Cadenza takes Kia’s new design philosophy on long front-drive platform. It is spacious, though a bit on the sporty side with plenty of technology on board. A 3.3 liter V6 powers the new full-sized luxury car effortlessly. Expect something solid and different from this Kia.
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NISSAN MAXIMA: The Four-Door Sports Car may have seen some better days, but it still keeps the American-built Nissan in the hunt. Only available in the VQ 3.5 liter V6, the Maxima offers huge power with ample space and an enthusiast’s quarters for the driver.
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TOYOTA AVALON: This is the leader among the full-sized sedans right now. With the changes made for 2013, the Avalon attracts a younger crowd still looking for attainable luxury and large quantities of space. The Avalon delivers in both a V6 and a hybrid model.
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