Midsize SUV Or Sedan?

Any decision you make about what kind of vehicle to choose has to be based on several key criteria. Obviously, price plays a part, but you also need to consider what you want from your driving experience, what you’re going to use your vehicle for, practical considerations such as space for a growing family, and of course, what makes you feel passionate about driving.

For the majority of young families, the choice is a clear toss-up between two main categories – mid-size SUV or sedan. But which one is right for you? Here is a quick look at both categories, and the advantages of each.

Mid-size SUVs

Once, nearly all SUVs were behemoths, designed for one thing only – tackling brutal off-road terrain. They didn’t perform well on tarmac and were unwieldy around town. Today, mid-size or compact SUVs are a totally different design concept – nippy, nimble, and equally at home on the city streets as on a bumpy, dusty track. Mid-size SUVs filled a big gap in the market, that crossover point between sedans and full-size SUVs, and drivers love them. Mid-size SUVs and crossovers are one of the fastest-growing sectors of the market for several reasons:

Practicality – The most obvious advantage of a mid-size SUV is the additional space. A larger cabin means more room for passengers as well as additional luggage room. Some mid-size SUVs utilise even more of that room by having split rear seats that can be laid flat to increase the luggage space in the back. Taller passengers and drivers benefit from more head and legroom, making them comfortable for longer journeys.

Safety – Modern mid-size SUVs come with a host of safety features. The larger, heavier construction makes them more capable of withstanding impacts without injuring the occupants. They also come with a wide range of driver-assist and safety packages, such as Lexus’ Safety System 3+, with innovative technology that pre-warns drivers of potentially hazardous or dangerous situations.

Efficiency – Mid-size SUVs are more fuel-efficient than their larger cousins. This improved efficiency increases their versatility as they’re now efficient enough for daily use, rather than just for off-road excursions. The more compact size makes them more suitable for city driving too, as they’re small enough to park easily, nip in and out of traffic, and cope with daily commuting.

Sedans

However popular they may be, mid-size SUVs such as the Lexus NX haven’t quite taken over from sedans just yet. The refined elegance of a sedan, its sleeker, lower profile, and premium quality feel make the modern sedan such as the Lexus LS or the ES aspirational cars.

These are cars that deserve a place on any driveway. The development in fuel efficiency has also filtered down to the sedan class, and a Lexus ES will give you an equally good km/L ratio as a crossover or compact SUV. And for even better economy, hybrid sedans are an eco-friendly choice if you do a lot of city driving.

Styling – There’s no question that the styling on modern Lexus sedans has broken that ‘jelly mould’ look that plagued the class for years. Today’s sedans are sleek, elegant and aggressive with curvaceous panelling that looks gorgeous and is aerodynamically refined. Inside, the opulent leather interiors and whisper-quiet cabins make them a pleasure to be in, whether you’re a driver or a passenger.

The driver experience – Sedans such as the Lexus IS are designed to be a driver’s car. They’re lower, with stiffer chassis and firmer suspension that gives the driver plenty of feedback through sweeping curves and mountain hairpin bends. The powerful engines deliver plenty of horsepower and bottom-end torque. Sedans appeal to your passionate side, delivering a truly exhilarating driving experience.

Family-friendly – Larger sedans still have the practicality that a modern family wants. They’re large enough to accommodate a small family and all their luggage for a weekend at the beach. Infotainment systems make them fun for younger passengers, while luxurious touches such as zoned climate control mean that everyone is comfortable and happy, even on a long trip.

Ultimately, the decision is down to the individual. Our top tip is if you’re not sure, test drive both a mid-size SUV and a sedan to get a feel for the difference between the two classes. At Al-Futtaim Lexus, we have a large selection of new and pre-owned SUVs and sedans on offer, which fulfil all the criteria the discerning motorist has when choosing a new vehicle.

Book a test drive online, or talk to one of our professional team today who will be happy to answer any of your questions.