American Sedans

Runner-up American sports sedans

The Lexus IS sedan line (*Est. $30,855 to $56,000) seems to be Lexus's answer to European sports sedans like the BMW 3-Series and Mercedes C-Class. The rear-drive Lexus IS line starts with the entry-level 204-hp IS 250, which offers optional AWD. The next model, the IS 350, jumps up in power to 306 hp. Both models have V-6 engines. A new ultra-performance competitor is the V-8-powered Lexus IS F, boasting 416 hp and a high-tech, paddle-shift eight-speed automatic transmission. While the IS F is a fast, fun and highly competent sports sedan, it comes up last in Motor Trend and Road & Track comparison tests with the BMW M3, Mercedes C63 AMG and Audi RS4. Motor Trend concludes: "A couple of clunky design elements let it down, and its steering and suspension calibrations aren't as well synthesized at the limit as the others." Editors also note that there is no value advantage, as the IS F costs no less than the BMW or Mercedes. The Lexus IS 250 and IS 350 get more accolades, offering strong performance, high levels of comfort and a host of equipment for competitive prices.

One of the defining characteristics of a sports sedan is rear-wheel drive (or AWD), since power to the rear wheels adds to responsive handling, gut-level power and driver feedback. Most sedans in the sport class now offer optional AWD. Fewer still stick with front-wheel drive. The highly rated 2008 Acura TL (*Est. $33,725 to $38,425) falls into this group. Although it's often compared to the BMW 3-Series and Infiniti G35, its front-wheel drive sets it apart. One advantage to front-wheel drive is all-weather performance, however, with better control in winter. Although most reviews give BMW and Infiniti the nod for the best sports sedans, reviews say the Acura trades true sports handling and suspension for better all-weather agility (though reviews say you'll need better tires for snow), near-luxury design, a quiet cabin and a comfortable, controlled ride.

The base model Acura TL has a 258-hp, 3.2-liter V6. The Acura TL S-Type includes firmer suspension, along with a 286-hp, 3.5-liter V6 engine. ConsumerGuide.com calls the TL "a solid Recommended choice, delivering high refinement, solid workmanship, and lots of features at hard-to-beat prices." However, they point out that the front-wheel drive "has a tendency toward torque steer," an annoying tug at the steering wheel during hard acceleration. Value is a strong reason to look at the TL, as it includes many standard features that are optional on competing cars, such as Bluetooth connectivity, power sunroof, leather seating, power seats and a highly praised surround-sound stereo. The base car is so well equipped that its only options are a navigation system and rear-view camera. The TL is named a best buy model by KBB.com and Cars.com.

The Infiniti M35 and M45 are also covered in our report on luxury cars, even though we often see them recommended as sports sedans. Reviews say the rear-drive or AWD Infiniti M35 and M45 are fantastically satisfying cars. The V-6-equipped M35 is one of IntelliChoice's Best Overall Value of the Year picks, based on total costs to own and operate a vehicle. Edmunds.com editors are also big fans of the M35/M45's comfortable ride, responsive handling, solid build quality and high level of equipment.

Several models of the Chrysler 300 (*Est. $25,150 to $42,405) fall into the sports sedan category: specifically, the Hemi V-8-powered 300C and 300C SRT8 models, equipped with a 340-hp, 5.7-liter V-8 and 425-hp 6.1-liter V-8, respectively. Rear-wheel drive is standard, and AWD is available on most models, except the SRT8. A number of upgrades for 2008 include a revised interior, new luxury-oriented options and available seat-mounted front side-impact airbags. Among the 300's accolades are top recommendations from ConsumerGuide.com and KBB.com, which calls the 300C "a family car with attitude." Reviews praise the big Chrysler's comfort, performance and distinctive styling, but express concern about poor fuel economy. The 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 engine features MDS (Multiple Displacement System) which improves economy by cutting fuel to four of the eight cylinders when extra power is not needed, but EPA fuel economy ratings of 15 mpg/city and 23 mpg/highway are still nothing to brag about.

The Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger (*Est. $22,510 to $37,215) are also both up against the new Pontiac G8 sedan, and several publications have conducted head-to-head comparison tests, specifically between the Charger R/T, with its 340-hp V-8, and the Pontiac G8 GT, with a 361-hp V-8. Car and Driver, Motor Trend and Edmunds.com each pick the Pontiac as the winner.

The Pontiac G8 wins the comparison tests based on the way it "seduces the pilot with its grunt, its poise, its eager responses, and the confidence it inspires," Car and Driver reports. Edmunds.com says the G8 "offers performance, practicality and surprising refinement at an attractive price." The rear-drive G8 was developed by GM's Australian subsidiary, Holden, and imported to the U.S. for 2008. In addition to the Pontiac G8 GT, there is a base model powered by a 256-hp V-6. Reviewers say the G8 has a European sports sedan-like ride and handling, not unlike that of the BMW 5-Series, for a much lower price. The lack of an available navigation system is one of the few criticisms.