Ask AutoGuide No. 39
Midsize sedans represent a massive slice of the automotive pie. These four-door cars almost single handedly (or wheely?) form the backbone of America’s personal transportation network, shuttling people practically everywhere they need and want to go. Yeah, they’re kind of a big deal, and as a salute to these hard-working automobiles they’re the subject of this week’s installment of Ask AutoGuide.
But this little feature is not a midsize shootout; sorry to burst your bubble like an inflamed appendix. Instead we’re comparing something established and familiar to a couple options that are alien and unusual; hopefully we won’t fan the flames of class warfare in the process. If you’re fixin’ for an automotive dogfight you won’t find it here, though we did post one last summer.
SEE ALSO: 2013-2014 Midsize Sedan Comparison
Anyhow, with that crap out of the way Michael and his wife have owned a 2006 Volkswagen Passat 4Motion wagon since new. The car has served them well for the past eight years as well as two presidential elections and one baby daughter. To better meet their needs and swelling family they purchased a VW Touareg in 2013. The upscale utility has the all-weather capability they need and more than enough interior space.
However, familiarity breeds contempt and with his existing model getting on in years Mike’s eye has started to wander. He’s begun exploring other options, though only in secret; he doesn’t want anyone else to find out. Concerns about the old girl’s mechanical integrity have risen to the top of his mind as the clock keeps on ticking. He’s also considering a replacement for the Passat.
And that’s one area where we can help, having earned an expert’s degree in automotive advice from a popular and likely accredited online university-style school. Michael wants a decently fun-to-drive sedan with a number of attractive options, though nothing crazy. Ideally the sticker price will be less than $35,000. What fits the bill? Let’s start with something familiar.
