Sports Sedans

Best 2007 sport sedans

It wasn't too difficult to identify this year's front-runner when it comes to sports sedans. For the 2007 model year, we found more recommendations for the cars in the BMW 3-Series than any other sports sedan. The lineup is composed of two base models. The BMW 328i (*est. $32,400) has a 230-hp, 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine, while the BMW 335i (*est. $38,700) has a turbocharged 300-hp, 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine. An all-wheel-drive variant of the 328i is available as the BMW 328xi (*est. $34,300).

In almost every review we found, the BMW 3-Series is the standard by which all other sports sedans are measured. Car and Driver calls the BMW 3-series "the definitive sports sedan," while Automobile Magazine says the cars in the 3-Series "are better than all others at doing everything extremely well, because they've been honed over the years to provide the absolute best combination of all pertinent characteristics." A number of reviews ranked the BMW 3-series the best of the year, including Car and Driver, Edmunds, Cars.com, Automobile Magazine and KBB.com.

Handling is the most praised aspect of the BMW 3-series. Although it sounds a little esoteric, the driver's relationship with the car is what's most notable in a sports sedan -- the balance between driver action and the vehicle's feedback and response. In this respect, reviews say the BMW 3-Series gets it just right. The review at Edmunds.com phrases it very well: "these cars have an ability to communicate with their drivers that is unmatched in the entry-level luxury class and, indeed, unmatched by most cars at any price."

In addition to handling, reviews like the 3-Series’ interior, which uses mainly high-quality materials, while cutting a few corners to keep the price down. Front seats are particularly comfortable, but a few reviews say the rear seat can feel a bit cramped. Cabin noise is minimal. Base models all include steering-wheel-mounted audio and headlight controls. An auxiliary audio input in the console lets you plug in an MP3 layer. Dual front airbags, front side airbags, and front and rear side head-protecting airbags are standard, along with antilock brakes, an antiskid system and a tire-pressure monitoring system.

The one feature that garners few positive reviews is iDrive, a system that places access to most entertainment, navigation and communication controls on a single joystick controller. While the system is tweaked every year and has received less negative feedback than in previous years, there are reviewers that will not stop complaining until the iDrive is obsolete. However, the iDrive system is optional for the most part, and it only comes with the navigation package. To be fair, many owners like the iDrive system. In terms of fuel, one downside is that all 3-Series sedans require premium fuel, an extra hit to the wallet. The EPA estimates gas mileage at about 20 mpg/city and 29 mpg/highway. That’s not bad for a sports sedan, and it’s on par with a lot of family cars. In real-world mixed driving, most reviews report actually fuel economy of between 19 and 24 mpg.

It was pretty easy to pinpoint the BMW 3-Series as the top 2007 line of sports sedans. It was also easy to pick the BMW's nearest competitor. We found many reviews that directly compare the BMW with the Infiniti G35 (*est. $31,450 to $34,050) , where the Infiniti sports sedan is often said to be just behind the class leader. A review at Cars.com sums up the rivalry best: "the G35 does almost everything right, just not as well as the 335i." For the 2007 model year, Infiniti made a number of small improvements to controls and interior, along with a new suspension system and a mostly-new engine. Three horsepower variations are available on the 3.5-liter V-6 base engine: 275-, 295- and 306-hp. All models have rear-wheel-drive standard. All-wheel-drive is an option. A sport suspension package is available, but you'll get a harsher ride. Without the sport package, ride quality is called excellent.

Safety features include six airbags standard, antilock brakes and an electronic stability system. Fuel economy estimates from the EPA are about 19 mpg/city and 26 mpg/hwy. In Consumer Guide's testing, the Infiniti got about 18 mpg in mixed driving, less than the BMW 3-Series.

By the numbers, it seems as though the Infiniti and BMW 3-Series are a pretty even match. A head-to-head test at Cars.com shows just how close the two are. Editors compare the two (along with the Acura TL S-Type) in eleven categories. The G35 pulls past the BMW in terms of shifting precision, seat comfort and extra amenities, but the BMW trumps the G35 in overall handling, road grip, acceleration, cargo space and curb appeal. Overall, the BMW just has an extra measure of refinement to put it over the top. Infiniti scores some points for value. You can get similar amenities for less. For example, the base-model Infiniti comes standard with leather upholstery and keyless entry/start. The base model BMW costs about $1,000 more, yet has vinyl seats (leather seats cost about $1,450 more). Keyless entry is included, but a keyless start is a $500 option. While a powered sunroof is standard on the BMW, it's only an option on the Infiniti G35.

More luxury, less sport

One of the defining characteristics of a sports sedan is rear-wheel-drive, since rear-wheel power adds to responsive handling, gut-level power and driver feedback. Some other sedans still fall into the sport class, but skip the AWD. The top-rated Acura TL (*est. $33,625 to $38,325) falls into this group. Although it's often compared to the BMW 3-Series and Infiniti G35, its front-wheel drive sets it apart from those two cars. 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 256-hp, 3.5-liter V-6. The Acura TL S-Type includes firmer suspension, along with a 286-hp V-6 engine. Standard on all models are luxury touches like heated leather seats, a premium sound system, steering-wheel-mounted audio controls, an auxiliary audio jack, satellite radio, hands-free phone capabilities and a power sunroof. The optional navigation system adds GPS navigation and a rear camera. Safety features include front side-airbags, front and rear side-curtain airbags, ABS and stability control.

Another plus for the Acura TL is its excellent reputation from long-term reliability. As reported in an article at Money magazine, the Acura TL holds the distinction of being one of the most reliable cars on the road, and according to CarCritic.com, its customer-satisfaction ratings are also far above average.

While the Acura TL, even the sporty Type-S model, doesn't have the aggressive handling of the BMW or Infiniti G35, many drivers will appreciate the trade-off for entry-level luxury, all-weather agility and long-term reliability. EPA fuel economy estimates for the Acura TL and TL S-type are about 19 mpg/city and 29 mpg/hwy. In real-world driving at Consumer Guide, testers achieved about 23 mpg in mixed driving (about 20 mpg for the S-Type). The Acura TL takes premium fuel.

If you want a large, comfortable sedan, but aren't that interested in sports suspension, a couple of cars rise to the top as options. The Chrysler 300 and 300C (*est. $23,880 to $40,420) and the Toyota Avalon (*est. $26,775 to $33,875) . Both have lower starting prices than the Acura TL, but the Acura has more standard luxury features, and due to its smaller size, better agility. Their lower starting prices make the Chrysler and Toyota options to consider for a family car, as well.

Named after the mythical island said to be the final destination of King Arthur, the Toyota Avalon (*est. $26,775 to $33,875) has been getting more and more reviewer attention since its overhaul in late 2005. Reviewers are impressed with the comfort and safety of the vehicle, as well as the fuel economy and simplicity of the control panel. Chosen by review sites such as KBB.com, Kiplinger's and Money Magazine, the Avalon is a non-traditional contender in the sport sedan market, known more for its spaciousness than its sporty performance. In a review at Money magazine, the Toyota Avalon is said to have great fit and finish, with terrific comfort features. The top of the line Avalon Limited (*est. $34,065) includes heated -- and cooled -- front seats, keyless entry/start and a powered sunroof. Leather upholstery is standard on all but the base model. According to Money magazine's Sam Grobart, however, the Avalon lacks "passion." Grobart continues: "It's a detached driving experience. Everything works well, but you feel the car is doing all the driving and you're merely a passenger."

What prevents the Toyota Avalon from being more of a competitor is the fact that the vehicle has a tough time selling itself as a sports vehicle. The Avalon is a large, front-wheel drive vehicle that feels heavy, according to reviews. However, reviewers are impressed with the acceleration of the vehicle, as well as the tight suspension and nimble handling of the Avalon, particularly for such a large vehicle. The Toyota Avalon has only one available engine: a 268-hp, 3.5-liter V-6. In terms of safety, the Avalon is around the class average. It comes standard with driver, side-impact and side-curtain airbags, as well as anti-lock brakes as standard features, while an electronic stability system is optional. For a vehicle as big and as well-equipped as the Toyota Avalon, the fuel efficiency is surprisingly good, with EPA estimates of about 22 mpg/city and 31 mpg/hwy. Real-world mixed driving results come in at about 20 mpg. One bonus is that the Avalon takes regular-grade fuel.

For more power with its V-8 Hemi engine, the Chrysler 300C Stands out with a large front grille and a long, aggressive style. A lesser seat comfort and a feel that screams "muscle" more than "sport" keeps the Chrysler from competing with the likes of the BMW 3-Series, Infiniti G35 and the Acura TL. However, the V-8 engine gives the 300C plenty of power, and rear-wheel-drive is an option. Automobile Magazine has the following to say about the 300C: "It's fast. It looks cool. It rides nicely, yet, thanks to its Mercedes-derived independent rear suspension and rear-wheel drive, doesn't mind getting chucked into a corner." However, concerns about reliability are a problem for the 300C (not as much for the V-6 300 model). And because of the large engine, gas mileage suffers. In real-world mixed driving at Consumer Guide, testers only got about 14.5 miles to the gallon. Read more about the V-6 Chrysler 300 in our report on family cars .

Other well-received sports sedans

Lexus is often a runner-up in reviews of sports sedans. The Lexus ES 350 (*est. $33,170) has received some excellent reviews and is noted as being the best new car in its class by the staff of Kiplinger's. Some reviewers, such as Cars.com, are not impressed with the feel of the brakes or the seat comfort, but the overall view of the vehicle is positive. In a review at Money magazine, editor Sam Grobart says the Lexus's cousin, the Toyota Avalon, is a better value, with a more spacious interior and amenities.

The Lexus IS sedan line (*est. $30,255 to $35,705) consists of the IS 250 and the IS 350. The Lexus IS 350 is noted as the number one pick at Road and Track, while the Lexus IS 250 is featured by the Sierra Sun. Both vehicles receive kudos for the amount of comfort and space they provide, and the review of the 350 is quick to note the excellent sport performance of the vehicle. However, some critics of the vehicles find leg room to be a bit lacking and engine whine to be noticeable. Crash tests results for these cars are excellent, and the Lexus IS 350 is available with rear-wheel-drive.

One of the favorites from the 2006 model year was the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution (*est. $28,179 to $35,189) , notable as a bare-bones, aggressive-driving sports sedan, with a 286-hp, 2.0-liter I-4 for under $30,000. According to reviews, the Lancer Evolution is the equivalent of a street-legal hot rod. The downside is the lack of safety equipment on the Evolution. Reviews also say the ride quality is lesser than that of the Evolution's competitors. Mitsubishi chose not to release a 2007 version of the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution. Rather, a redesigned Evolution will be released in mid-2007 as an early 2008 model.

Another offering from Acura, the TSX (*est. $28,240 to $38,640) scores points for long-term reliability and overall customer satisfaction. This car is smaller and less sporty than the Acura TL, fitting in as an upgraded family sedan. The TSX gets great crash-test scores and good scores for comfort, but its four-cylinder engine keeps it from comparing as well to the competition. Still, it handles and performs well, especially for the low price -- a good $3,000 less than a base-model Infiniti G35, even though the Infiniti includes a more powerful V-6 engine.

Audi fills the sport sedan segment with its A4 (*est. $28,240 to $38,640) , a vehicle that offers performance in addition to a near-luxury quality ride. According to the Sierra Sun, the A4 is second only to the BMW 3-Series. Other reviews, however, don't rate it quite as highly. Reviews do say its 3.2-liter V-6 engine is smooth and quiet. Crash test scores are excellent, but some reviews say rear-seat comfort is a problem.

A direct competitor to the Chrysler 300C is another modern-day muscle car, the Dodge Charger (*est. $21,800 to $35,920) . These cars share a number of positive features -- they are both aggressively styled, big on nostalgia and offer a near-excess of power with an available V-8 Hemi engine. Although the rear seat is roomy, headroom can be a bit tight. As with the Chrysler 300C, reliability is a concern and fuel economy is low. However, if the Chrysler 300C appeals to you, the Dodge Charger should also make your short list and get a test drive.

The Mazda Mazdaspeed6 (*est. $18,930 to $27,800) hasn't been the focus of many reviews for the current year, but it still receives fine marks when it is mentioned. The vehicle excels in sport categories such as speed, handling and quietness, but it fails to make adequate marks in terms of room and smoothness, which is integral to being successful in today's market. The Mazdaspeed6 GT does get a good review at Kiplinger magazine, where it's noted as holding its resale value particularly well.

The Nissan Maxima (*est. $28,050 to $30,300) is another one of those cars that sits somewhere between a family car and a sports sedan. The Maxima has been noted by KBB.com as being one of the top picks available for sport sedans. The Maxima has an impressive track record, a nice level of luxury and a great amount of performance as well. Unfortunately, the front-wheel drive of the vehicle is not great for sport performance, and the vehicle is not available with a manual transmission at all, putting it more squarely in competition with family cars like the Honda Accord.

The Subaru Impreza WRX STi (*est. $33,495 to $35,000) is a street-legal race car for the most part, and according to SpeedTV.com the vehicle is the number one entry-level sports sedan for the 2007 model year. (SpeedTV bases its pick partly on how easy it is to customize the Impreza WRX.) The Impreza WRX is a compact car -- and not nearly as roomy as others in its class and price range. It receives praise for its price and for the performance that comes with said price. In addition, the power and build quality of the car are applauded as well. If you're looking for a sporty smaller car and don't particularly want a coupe, the Impreza is worth a look. The Impreza WRX also comes as a sport wagon.

The Saab 9-5 (*est. $34,370 to $36,465) attempts to bring the class associated with the Saab brand to the sports sedan market. The engine powering the Saab 9-5 is a 260-hp, 2.3-liter I-4, and it’s the only available engine for the vehicle. But all-wheel-drive isn't an option. Though handling is called stable and predictable in reviews, it's not considered sporty. For that reason, the Saab is a better fit as a roomy high-end family car.

A level above the first-place awarded 3-Series is the BMW 5-Series (*est. $43,500 to $58,500) , which includes three vehicles: the BMW 525, 530 and 550. The 5-Series was chosen as the best sedan under $60,000 by the staff of Edmunds, praised for the same reasons that make the 3-Series a winner. We cover the 5-Series in our report on luxury cars.

The Infiniti M35 and M45 (*est. $41,450 to $50,550) are also covered in our report on luxury cars even though we often saw it recommended as a sports sedan. Reviews say the M35 and M45 are fantastically satisfying cars. The V-6 equipped M35 is the top sports-sedan/luxury crossover in Kiplinger's annual buyer's guide. Edmunds.com editors are also big fans of the M35/M45's quick shifting, solid build quality, styling and sharp handling.

Important features: Sports sedans

The following is what the experts say about choosing a sports sedan.

• Sports sedans are all about handling, agility and driver feedback. Acceleration, handling and ride quality set the best sports sedans apart from the pack and apart from family sedans. Rear-wheel-drive is usually available on sport sedans, which contributes to a closer relationship between the driver and the car's response. Some other sedans lean more toward luxury than sportiness, offering plenty of engine power and nimble handling, but without rear-wheel-drive.

• Manual gearboxes are preferable to regular automatics. They give you more control over the transmission, which generally improves the vehicle's acceleration and gives drivers the feeling of being connected to the vehicle. However, a new breed of transmission, sometimes called "manu-matics" or paddle-shifters, provides the convenience of an automatic with the ability to shift gears (without using a clutch pedal). Paddle shifters are frequently an option.

• Sports sedans often double as family cars. Therefore, any model you buy should be able to accommodate at least four adults and their luggage.

• The options can make all the difference. If you are going to be taking advantage of a sports sedan's powerful engine, having a complete safety-option package is important. Luxury touches like heated leather seats, a sunroof, keyless entry/start and sport suspension are either standard or optional on most cars.

• Check out the tires. Some sports sedans are equipped with high-performance tires, while others only offer them as an option. To get the best performance, you'll want high-performance tires. More and more sedans these days are shipping with 17-inch or 18-inch wheels, which increase road contact and can be a performance benefit.

Our Consensus Report shows how many times products are top-ranked by reviewers included in our
All The Reviews Reviewed chart.

# of Picks	Model (with retailer links)	details from Edmunds.com
9	BMW 3-Series (*est. $32,400 to $38,700)	details
5	Chrysler 300 and 300C (*est. $23,880 to $40,420)	details
4	Infiniti G35 (*est. $31,450 to $34,050)	details
4	Toyota Avalon (*est. $26,775 to $33,875)	details
4	Acura TL (*est. $33,625 to $38,325)	details
3	Infiniti M35 (*est. $41,450 to $44,550)	details
2	Acura TSX (*est. $28,240 to $38,640)	details
2	Lexus IS (*est. $30,255 to $35,705)	details
2	Dodge Charger (*est. $21,800 to $35,920)	details
2	Lexus ES 350 (*est. $33,170)	details
1 each	Mazda Mazdaspeed6 , Infiniti M45 , Nissan Maxima , Audi A4 , Subaru Impreza WRX , Saab 9-5 , Nissan Maxima , Buick Lucerne , Lincoln Zephyr

It's easy to see that the BMW 3-Series tops most reviewers' list for the best sports sedan. And in most reviews, the Infiniti G35 is noted as a close competitor. The Acura TL, since it doesn't have rear-wheel-drive, isn't classed by many experts as a true sports sedan, but other reviews say it blends sportiness with near-luxury and has great amenities and reliability. Large sedans such as the Toyota Avalon and Chrysler 300 and 300C are big, roomy and heavy. They can't compete with the handling of other sports sedans, but they are an option for those who want something more than a family car. We found excellent reviews for the Infiniti M35 and cover this car in our report on luxury cars .

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