Also known as the Camry segment due to the dominance of Toyota’s mid-sized sedan, medium cars are fast becoming the new large car globally. It was once a category associated with dull and unexciting options, but since the early noughties the class hasn’t looked back with buyers now spoilt for choice. Here are CarAdvice’s top five picks for the segment:
Wolfsburg brings a big extras list for a small premium; Strong and efficient engine; Excellent road manners; Capable AWD system; Good towing capacity; Classy, practical interior
Ground clearance could be higher for an all-roader wagon; Comfort mode’s floaty ride and slow engine response; DSG still not the perfect automatic gearbox; Some interior-quality inconsistencies
Well equipped and plush; Improved driving dynamics; Good hybrid and V6 options available; Affordable servicing costs
2.5-litre engine doesn't belong in the SL; Sunroof hurts rear head room; Lane-assist system is rubbish
Arresting design outside and in; New flagship engine range; Standard active safety tech; Improved comfort and noise suppression
Not the last word in rear seat space; No Apple CarPlay/Android Auto for now; Non-turbo 2.5 remains on entry cars; Time for Mazda to extend its warranty?
Excellent road manners; Better cabin design and layout; Metal-for-money equation; Hyundai ownership experience
Missing active safety tech; Price gap between Active and Premium; Lack of hybrid
The practicality and space of a wagon; Mean looks speak of intent; Plenty powerful to hustle along; And plenty comfortable to carry the family; Infotainment system a dream to use; Loaded with safety kit
Lacks the noise to match its character; And that noise is piped into the cabin... Boo; Sharp hits can unsettle it; Starting to get pricey
Amazing room in the back; Practical hatchback is very convenient; Great engine and driveline; Lovely interior detailing
High roof and 'squashed X6' design not to all tastes; Hefty price premium over 330i sedan; Longer wheelbase not as dynamic as other 3 Series
Stylish, well equipped and well appointed, so much so it feels like good value; very clever and easy-to-use driver tech; practical and fun to drive
Front seats could use more support, as long-distance driving is what this car is for; a few ergonomic issues and infotainment glitches; thirstier than advertised
Classy AMG-enhanced exterior styling; properly sports-infused cabin and seats; oodles of engine punch; impressive fuel economy
Engine not terribly sporting in character; ditto the transmission; more grand tourer than corner carver; punchier and smoother 350d version not offered in Oz
Excellent dynamics; Beautifully quiet at highway speeds; Sumptuous interior; Alfa-ness in spades
Engine note a little on the quiet side; Lacks smartphone mirroring tech; Scheduled servicing costs expensive; Thirsty for fuel; Tight back row
A sharp looking alternative to big German brands; Great engine, even at this entry level; Fantastic balance and excellent handling characteristics; InControl Touch Pro a great media system
Still a bit thirsty for our tastes; Still off the pace in terms of cabin materials; Why isn't ICTP standard?!
