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Motor trends top 6 midsize cars in order
1- Mazda6
2- Optima
3- Chrysler 200c
4- Accord
5- Altima
6- Malibu
looks like Camry and Fusion didn't make motor trends cut.
23 Telluride SX-P X-Line, 23 Camry XSE
Camry may not have been tested if it is on the way out?
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
Mags like MT and C/D rate cars on how they are to drive , not how they are to sit in. Hence cars like the Mazda6 and Accord typically do well in these comparos. Cars that are nice boulevard cruisers like the Camry and Malibu and Altima, not so much.
In the small car compare (CD June) the Focus, Elantra and the Sentra were left out, and the mid size test above left out Passat, Camry, Fusion and if we stretch it the Legacy. The Impreza used to be compared to the Mitsui Lancer exclusively, but now it appears that it is sort of in a class by itself since the pending demise of Mitsubishi in the U.S. It is also priced more like a mid size.
Sometimes my Optima is fun to drive, and others it is no fun at all. It feels unnecessarily stiff and over broken pavement and potholes it sends shockwaves through the chassis, and feels like it loses contact with the pavement. It makes me wince. However, on smooth pavement it drives really nicely until you get to corners, where I have to make constant corrections because I can't feel where the front wheels are or what they are doing.
Everything else about the car, is excellent. (well except for being able to see out of the back).
These comparison tests are purely for entertainment purposes and really have little to do with actual buying preferences. By nature they are subjective. I like to read the actual comments about each vehicle but the actual ranks or which one was or wasn't included in the test is irrelevant.
So are the magazine covers:
Jan: Corvette
Feb 911
March: Corvette
April: 911
May: 911 and Corvette
and on and on............
The Optima reminds me of what the Pontiac Grand Prix would have become if Pontiac still existed. It is very reminiscent of the GP of the early 2000s skipped ahead a couple of generations in terms of the ride quality and general nature of the design.
Maybe if the Mazda 6 wins a few more comparison test they will be able to sell more than a handful every month.
Is the Chrysler 200 that finished 3rd the upcoming model or the turtle-back version that we can buy currently?
2017 Cadillac ATS Performance Premium 3.6
It's the new one.
I was surprised the Chrysler 200 was rated as rather tepid in acceleration---soemething like 8.7 seconds, which puts it dangerously close to Prius territory (9.5 sec) . That's really not very impressive, if true.
Found the MT comparo article. Haven't read it yet, but first glance at the lead photo, I thought I saw an Audi A7 in there. The new Chrysler at least LOOKS really good. Especially in blue. I remained irked that my car wasn't available in any "real" colors.
Impressive showing, Kia. Especially considering it's the oldest platform in the group, IIRC.
As someone else noted, this test is very subjective, and opinions are like... eyelids. But the fact that it is still considered a worthy contender is impressive.
Ain't that the truth. Accord is a C&D Top 10 because they liked everything MT criticized about it (ride quality, materials quality, Sport trim level as a great value without any frills, whereas C&D calls it cheap and decontented...)
We can all find some periodical who will support our allegiance to what we actually bought. There doesn't appear to be a terrible choice available.
Plus let's consider actual transaction cost - no doubt the heavy discounts on outgoing upper-level Optimas later this year would have pushed that value equation way into first place. At which point they would complain about its impending replacement and exclude it from the test, as they did with the Sonata... Bottom line - take even professionals' opinions with a huge grain of salt. Use them to gather your facts and prepare for your own analysis, and then go out and actually experience everything for yourself. And then become a forum fanboy,
Motortrend had lots of fun trashing every Ford/Lincoln they tested, so Ford just stopped providing them.
With weather warming up and the gas formulation change, I'm close the getting the 28 mpg average I'm used to with my Fusion Ti.
ahightower: Ain't that the truth. Accord is a C&D Top 10 because they liked everything MT criticized about it (ride quality, materials quality, Sport trim level as a great value without any frills, whereas C&D calls it cheap and decontented...)
cski:
C/D also said that the Accord Sport was "the best value in the US". They were pining for more options with the M/T version,( as usual) but not slamming the Sport in general.
However, 6 months later they said in a long term fleet update that no one had taken the car out to do anything sporting and it was relegated to more plebian use.
I would drive the Mazda first, Accord second, and the Fusion/Optima tied for third and fourth before making a decision if I was in the market for a midsize today.
I would not include the 200C or S unless it was the second year of production and it had a good track record. The Passat is well built even if styled after a potato, but I have noted that it costs almost double the cost to own compared to most of the others. Also, it is underpowered with the new 1.8 turbo, even though ditching the antique 5cyl 2.5 motor.
If you took 6 vehicles and asked 100 people to rank them you'd get 20 or 30 different rankings (at least). It's far too subjective to be meaningful and everyone is biased to one degree or another.
Agreed. 70 people out of that 100 may have never owned a midsize car before. what could they possible know? A first time buyer in any field has no clue especially comming from used vehicles or a compact car.
I find consumer reports to be the best out of the lot on reviews. They all have there hidden agenda's but overall Consumer reports is on point. Motor Trend, Car and driver are laughable at times with some of there reviews.
There is a poster in our forums cant think of his name.. He works at a Car rental place and drives cars back and forth in S. Florida. I enjoy reading some of his reviews on the little cars/ midsize cars. We should get him side work at Motor trend or Car and driver. He would be a welcome addition not a 2 hour test drive guy reporting..
I always find a good indicator with people reviews are repair records on there vehicle. Ride, design, handling, comfort you need to take there reviews with a grain of salt.
Sorry.................... Edmunds I forgot to mention you guys.. Your reviews are excellent. You are a well respected and world class leader in the Car world. Right up there with Consumer reports..
Hopefully that little plug gets me another sticker on my wall.............. lol
23 Telluride SX-P X-Line, 23 Camry XSE
That would be sandman_6472. I'm sure he'd like that job!
Mr Shiftright,
I'd like to be Sandman-6472 agent. I get a small finder fee for his good reviews.
Also just a few small requests on his behalf........... Nothing big.
Fly him to the office 1 day a month.. private plane possible.......... Netjets
Choice of Sports car every 2 years with edmunds gas expense card.
X sign................................lol
23 Telluride SX-P X-Line, 23 Camry XSE
he does mostly short hops so I think a King Air would work--he doesn't really need a jet.
Hey, forget the jet, I just want an Edmund's sticker! What does a guy gotta do around here to get one? Brian125 mentioned it above.
Well I gave you a thumbs up. Now you have a "5 likes" badge in your profile.
Are you aware that if you can make 80k posts Edmunds will let you redeem them for a Edmunds Casket, or you could cash in for a 1972 ......Ford Pinto.. The choice is yours......
23 Telluride SX-P X-Line, 23 Camry XSE
My mom had a 73 wagon. Blue. 4 speed. I learned to drive stick on it. It had....a radio.......
LMAO.
Thanks man. I am a car junkie through and through, and if I could care for them properly I would own quite a few. I am mentioning this because as I write this I am watching American Pickers, and I see these collectors on TV and they leave all these cool cars out to rust.
In the fall, I watched the Lambrecht auction on TV, (Chevy Dealer who refused to sell any cars he took in trade, and he bought certain cars left over that didn't sell for whatever reason) and had to shut it off because it pissed me off. He left a Corvette with one mile on it sit out and rust. I would have liked to punch him in the face.
Cars are made to be driven and enjoyed by those who own them, and those who like to see them in action out there on the road. They don't belong in a field until they disintegrate.
The Accord is also an "all star" for Automobile magazine....
"The Honda Accord nails the fundamentals like no other car. It’s spacious, fuel efficient, reliable, and has excellent outward visibility. No wonder it’s so popular. In the hypercompetitive midsize sedan segment, the Accord stands out for its refined powertrains, its ergonomics, and its overall attention to detail. The fact that it can be equipped with one of the best, slickest-shifting manual transmissions in the world and handles like a smaller car is a bonus."
Read more: http://www.automobilemag.com/features/awards/1404-2014-automobile-magazine-all-stars-winners/#ixzz32dsnpo3Q
Ben......... I agree with you. Honda Accord won for me hands down. There are still things about the new Accord I dont like but overall its the best choice in the midsize field.
23 Telluride SX-P X-Line, 23 Camry XSE
I agree as well. Honda Accord Sport offers a whole lot for $23,500. It is the one of the first midsize cars I would drive if I was in the market today. Make mine the blue color I see a lot of. Really nice looking color, and the whole shape of the car works for me.
I would honestly drive the Mazda first, but I have a feeling it would be $5000 more for the features I would want. I am pretty sure I would be bringing the Accord home.
I do like the looks of the sport. Throw a moonroof and XM radio on it, and perfect.
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
Well, I have been thinking quite a bit about how I can improve the handling of the car I already have, and you guys probably know by now that I frequent the Optima specific forum, where I hooked up with the owner of the K5 Optima Store. They just started offering Megan racing coil-overs, which unlike some other brands you can get for less than a grand. A lot less. I was told they are excellent, and wont ruin the ride.
Before I am ready to buy something like this, I am going to need a few first hand accounts of how they work and if they are really worth it.
Here is the link just the same: http://www.k5optimastore.com/collections/coilovers/products/megan-ez-street-series
I like the color. and I have to imagine they will definitely firm up the handling.
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
cski
BC racing and the Megans are both made in Taiwan. Both fit your kia. Either one will be an improvement with megans costing a few dollars cheaper. Quality and noise have been a problem with some of the Megan coils. Thats why alot of folks choose the BC.
I believe both brands have height adjustments front/ back.
If you want my opinion buy which ever one is cheaper. Both good coils and you will notice better ride quality in your Kia........... Money well spent.
23 Telluride SX-P X-Line, 23 Camry XSE
Hey brian125 -
Sounds like you know what you are talking about. Any personal experience with coil-overs?
I was actually looking at the next step up too, as $900 is not a huge stretch from $700, and it has twice the settings. However, other than adjustable ride height, I have no idea what the rest of the features do for me. I just want to tighten it up a little, and when the wheel rebounds from broken pavement, bumps, and holes, it doesn't make me cringe. I think Kia tried to do just that, but they cut corners on the quality of the struts and shocks. Places that BMW, Audi, and even Mazda and Honda does not.
Yeah, I have an itchy trigger finger on the Visa.... just need to find out how much installation is, and if it will affect my warranty in any way. It would be perfect if I could get them for 6 month same as cash. Who wants to pay interest?
Anyway, check these out! http://www.k5optimastore.com/collections/coilovers/products/megan-racing-coilovers-street-series
cski
Will track down my Son tommorrow and shoot you a IM on Coils. He has used the BC racing/ Megan coils on a few of his cars. Check Kia forums if someone has used the megans and think they are good save the few hundred and go with megans over BC- racing. Friends i know who used megans have no complaints.
23 Telluride SX-P X-Line, 23 Camry XSE
Thanks Brian. Did he pop them on himself, or pay a local shop? If he paid, Pl, ease let me know how much he paid.
cski, posted on your wall
My son said get the BC racing coil overs. They are better made last longer and quiet. Worth the extra $$............ Both made from same company. The Megans & BCs are very similar, except in the following regards. The Megans have pillow ball front and rear mounts, while the BC just have in front. Son thinks a pillowball rear is overkill. Does not make a bigger difference. Both have height and dampening adjustment. Both have camber plates in front.
Now, the main difference with the BCs is that they have a larger diameter shock body which has a lot of advantages, especially ride and durability. So, it comes down to price, all are similarly priced. But the BC really seem to be better built and a more complete package. My son said get the BCs. He installed them with his friend it was not hard.
I would find a house mechanic who does work on the side. $75 a side is probably the going rate.
Check out : Import image racing my son said there are other goodies you could replace on your kia that will Improve your suspension when the time come
My take on both coil overs would be for light street driving and cornering the Megans should do the job fine but with more agressive driving you might want to spend the extra for the BC's or just buy the best and dont look back.
Stay away from the Teins coilovers
23 Telluride SX-P X-Line, 23 Camry XSE
I agree. I would consider my first ever Honda if they would include these on the sport. I can't get buy without Sirius Radio. We currently own a 2009 Fusion and a 2012 Highlander Limited both with active Sirius radio. I have renewed my Fuison SEL 6 times since I bought it in October of 2008. I do quite a bit of driving as a Manufacturer Rep so I could not live without it. I love my Fusion and will be looking to buy a new car in a year. Fusion Titanium and Optima SXL will top my list. Chevy Malibu and the 2015 redesigned Sonata will be next followed by the Accord. I have always had an aversion to Honda since most of the owners I know seem to be Liberal in their politics. My Sister and her husband are fanatical Liberals and have only owned one non Honda in their 30 years together. They won't even look at another brand. I always tell them to have an open mind about buying a car you might be suprised.
Holy cow................. liberals with sense. I owned honda's . I'm dead against liberalism.
People buy Honda for Quality, Build and resale value.
23 Telluride SX-P X-Line, 23 Camry XSE
Who knew one buys a car based on the politics of the people you happen to know?
'24 Chevy Blazer EV 2LT
I didn't know that Honda's were primarily driven by liberals. I thought they were driven by people who like reliable cars.
I have 2 acuras now (do they count too?) and until a couple years ago had 2 Hondas + 1 Acura.
trust me, we don't fit your profile!
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
Sorry guys. Dumb old guy making dumb old guy comments. I will keep my comments about cars only in the future. I guess it was just related to my personal experience and should know better than to make assumptions based on my small world.
More pics from this > @mtnman1 said:
Well, it shows you've got a good heart, because real men admit their mistakes. I have said much worse, and argued about issues that were much more petty.
A very large part of my church are seniors, and I think about 75% are republican. For the life of me though I can't think of a common car they drive, except for the Lexus ES350 and the RX350. There are more of those than any other car.
Anyway, happy Memorial day to you all, and if any of you are current or former military, thanks for your service.
it does raise a good point though. Many people buy something as much because of what they think it says about them (based on who else drives the same thing), regardless of what is the most practical option.
Minivans are of course the ultimate example of this, but I suppose if you associate a certain demographic with a particular car, you might not get one if you didn't want to be associated with that!
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
Interesting... I always thought minivans were immensely practical vehicles (and I owned or leased 4 of them over the years), but many folks don't want to be seen as a minivan-owner type and thus get something like an SUV instead.
It depends on the minivan. The Odyssey has that smooth and refined 3.5 liter, but the Windstar drives and sounds like a farm implement.
there are also "chick cars" that men won't drive. Stuff like that.
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
back to midsize sedans. The Sunday paper had a preview drive review on the new Legacy. Sounded very promising. Excellent MPG, and they really seemed to nail the styling, and upgraded the features. Really can't wait to see it in person. Should be a strong competitor for the usual suspects, and will continue to sell about 1/15th as many units!
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
Why do people assume that people don't like minivans because of what people will think about them? Most people just don't like the way they look.
Qbecause the reason most people give when asked why they don't buy them is because of the soccer mom image. That seems to be the reason people switched to s/CUVs is because of the image of the minivan, not the practicality, the minivan ( or even further back the station wagon) has lost sales because it became popular and has an image problem now. It is the image of who drives one that has lead to the sales drop.