Despite the increasing market share of crossovers and SUVs, traditional sedans remain relevant credit to their sharp design and excellent driving dynamics. Thanks to their sleek aerodynamic design, sedans return higher fuel efficiency and stick to the road better, offering a more engaging experience. Regardless of the brand you choose, most sedans offer a usable cargo trunk and comfortable seating for five.
Depending on your budget, there are plenty of sedans to choose from in the US market; starting with basic models like the Hyundai Accent to high-performance offerings like the Mercedes-AMG C43 sedan. Let’s take a look at some of the best sedans available to purchase in 2022.
2022 Kia Rio Sedan (Subcompact)
Starting with one of the most affordable options on the list, we have the 2022 Kia Rio sedan. Unlike most of its rivals, Rio offers an excellent all-round package for a starting price of just $17,600. While there are no notable updates for 2022 MY, it comes jam-packed with features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, touchscreen infotainment, air conditioning, and a lot more.
The standard 1.6L I4 engine also provides enough grunt for daily commutes even with a full load. It also comes standard with a CVT unit for better fuel economy. That’s not it; Kia also offers a range of driver assistance features as options. And those looking for more practicality can opt for the hatchback variant.
2022 Honda Civic Sedan (Compact)
With the 11th generation introduced for 2022, the Civic sedan retakes its throne as one of the best compact sedans in the market. It has always been one of the most dynamic in the segment, and the latest generation continues that trend. Based on a new platform, the latest Civic gets a whole new host of updates to keep it competitive. Appealing to enthusiasts, the Civic can also be optioned with a manual transmission instead of the CVT that comes as standard.
Honda has also given the interior a complete revamp with an updated layout that looks more premium than the price tag suggests. It offers a comfortable and smooth ride, making it an ideal choice for families looking for an affordable and reliable family car. And speaking of price, it starts at just $23,600 for the base LX trim.
2022 Honda Accord (Midsize)
Coming to the second Honda on this list, the Accord has long been crowned as the best midsize sedan in the market. It ticks all the boxes the average customer looks for including performance, handling, practicality, and affordability. It offers plenty of space in both rows and a potent 2.0L powertrain that provides plenty of grunt. For the price, the Accord also includes a long list of features including the latest driver assistance tech.
While there is still room for improvement with the infotainment system, the 2022 Honda Accord excels as an overall package for $27,000. Customers looking for better MPG figures can also opt for the hybrid variant that returns an impressive 50 MPG.
2022 Toyota Avalon (Full-Size)
Next on the list, we have the Avalon- largest sedan in Toyota’s stable to represent the full-size sedan segment. It has seen a lot of changes in recent years, shedding its old and boring image for a futuristic approach. Borrowing a lot of design cues from Lexus, the Avalon certainly looks the part. It can easily ferry around five people in comfort and comes packed with all the latest technologies and features you can think of. You also get a floating center stack and the cabin is adorned in high-quality materials.
Avalon can also be purchased with a hybrid powertrain for better efficiency; returns an impressive 43 MPG combined. While the hybrid variant gets a smaller 2.5L I4 engine paired to an electric motor, the standard variant gets a potent 3.5L V6 engine with over 300 hp on tap. However, it is sad that this will be the last year of production for Avalon.
2022 Mercedes-Benz CLA Class (Luxury Subcompact)
Jumping to the luxury space, one of the best subcompact sedans that money can buy is the Mercedes-Benz CLA Class. With dimensions smaller than the standard C-Class, it has a unique coupe design with its sweeping roofline. The latest generation of the CLA is every bit as luxurious as its bigger siblings. Souped up models pumping out 382 hp from the AMG Performance division are also available. The CLA Class also gets all the latest features that are found in a German luxury car.
2022 Tesla Model 3 (Compact Luxury)
Electric cars are all the rage nowadays, and the 2022 Tesla Model 3 gets all the basics right. It offers a spacious cabin and a long list of features. But what makes the Model 3 sell apart from being an EV is that it can be optioned with the Tesla Pilot (semi-autonomous driving tech suite). If you’re in the market for an electric car, the Model 3 should top the list. However, for all the tech on offer, the Model 3 can sometimes get a bit confusing and has a steep learning curve.
2022 Mercedes-AMG C43 Sedan (Performance Luxury)
If it’s performance you’re after, the 2022 Merc-AMG C43 sedan remains one of the best choices in the segment. This time around, Mercedes ditches the previous engine on offer, and a new 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 unit takes its place. But, don’t let the small engine fool you; it churns out an impressive 402 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. It is assisted by a 48-volt hybrid system to boost efficiency and performance. Floor the throttle and the 2022 AMG C43 sedan hits 0 to 60 MPH in just 4 seconds, making it one of the fastest sedans in its class. However, it can get expensive as it comes with a starting price tag of $63,000 for the base Premium model. But overall, if you’re looking for a fast and practical luxury sedan, the 2022 Mercedes-AMG C43 sedan fits the bill perfectly.
