D-Segment
Sporty styling helps to sell the Nissan Altima coupe.
Midsize or D-Segment models are characterized as offering seating for five passengers and feature sedan body styles. Some models, such as the Honda Accord and Nissan Altima, also offer coupes while wagons are available in various markets including Europe.
Base Engines
Four cylinder engines are common to this class with V-6 engines optional. Making use of direct fuel injection and turbochargers gives some models extra power including the Hyundai Sonata and Kia Optima. Hybrid models are gaining ground with the Toyota Camry and Ford Fusion among the gas-electric offerings available.
Six-speed automatic transmissions have become this segment’s benchmark with models from Toyota, Ford, Chevrolet, Hyundai and Kia among those offering this option. Manual transmissions are common among base models; some vehicles offer the best of both worlds by provide automatic transmission with manual shifting capabilities.
Newest Models
The newest models are from Hyundai and Kia with Volkswagen rolling out its made in America Passat in 2011 as a 2012 model. Most vehicles in this segment are updated every five or six years with at least one mid-cycle update to keep things fresh. However, the Mitsubishi Galant is the oldest of the lot and is riding on the same platform introduced in 2003.
Fuel economy in this class is usually quite good with most models offering one gas-powered car achieving 30 to 35 mpg on the highway. For those models offering a V-6, customers should compare base engines with the larger motors as the performance edge may not be enough to offset the reduction in overall fuel economy.
D-Segment Models
| Make/Model | Year | Summary |
|---|---|---|
| Chevrolet Malibu | 2011 | All new in 2008, the Chevrolet Malibu is at the vanguard of new Chevy vehicles prized for its styling and value. Wisely, GM has discontinued its Malibu Hybrid, a poor performing model in an otherwise great line up. |
| Chrysler 200 | 2011 | Formerly known as the Sebring, the Chrysler 200 gets a significant overhaul and name change for 2011. This "Imported From Detroit" sedan resets the segment for Chrysler. |
| Dodge Avenger | 2011 | Twin to the Chrysler 200, the Dodge Avenger has its own sporty persona. When equipped with its optional V-6, this sedan rocks. |
| Ford Fusion | 2011 | Introduced in 2006, the Fusion underwent a significant mid-cycle refresh for 2010 as a hybrid model was added to the line up. |
| Honda Accord | 2011 | The Accord is Honda's second oldest, but best selling model. Available in coupe and sedan, this car is prized for its rock solid reliability. |
| Hyundai Sonata | 2011 | All new for 2011, the Hyundai Sonata leads this segment in highway fuel economy, cabin room and standard amenities. Turbo and hybrid models add to the mystique. |
| Kia Optima | 2011 | Perhaps offering the best overall value in its class, the all new for 2011 Kia Optima is here. Good prices and optional turbo and hybrid offerings make this car a competitor. |
| Mazda6 | 2011 | Built in Michigan, the Mazda6 combines sport styling with performance. Few models in this segment can compete with its optional 3.7-liter V-6. |
| Mitsubishi Galant | 2011 | The current generation Mitsubishi Galant was released in 2003 and is by far the oldest model in this segment. Consider other models first before exploring the Galant. |
| Nissan Altima | 2011 | Available in coupe and sedan, the Nissan Altima is proof that a midsize vehicle doesn't have to be boring. In fact, this car is downright exciting. |
| Subaru Legacy | 2011 | The Subaru Legacy is the largest model offered by this Japanese automaker. And, this vehicle is the only one in its class with standard all-wheel-drive. |
| Suzuki Kizashi | 2011 | The Suzuki Kizashi is the newest and most interesting model offered by this automaker. Sport styling and excellent handling are its trademarks. |
| Toyota Camry | 2011 | For most of the past decade, the Camry has been the best selling car in America. Revised in 2007, the Camry also offers a hybrid model. |
| Volkswagen Passat | 2012 (arriving soon) | All new for 2012, the Volkswagen Passat is designed for the American market. This car is built here too: at VW's new plant in Tennessee. |
