Other family sedans
Volkswagen Passat
MSRP: $23,260 Despite its German brand name and heritage, the Passat is a thoroughly Americanstyle family sedan, from its limo-like rear seat to its supple ride. The base engine is a 170-hp 1.8-liter turbo four with a six-speed automatic; a 280-hp 3.6-liter V-6 is optional. A quiet and exceptionally roomy cabin is the Passat’s strong point. Niceties such as touchscreen infotainment, Bluetooth, aluminum wheels, and dual-zone climate control are standard; SE and SEL trims get Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Ford Fusion
MSRP: $22,995 From the workaday SE to the posh Platinum, the Fusion offers something for everyone. The base engine is a 175-hp 2.5-liter four, but two turbo fours are offered—a 181-hp 1.5-liter and a 245-hp 2.0-liter. All get a six-speed automatic transmission and frontwheel drive; all-wheel drive is optional. Two hybrids — one a plug-in — are both rated for 41 mpg highway. A stiffened suspension and 325-hp 2.7-liter twin-turbo V-6, both exclusive to the Fusion Sport, promise athletic handling with muscle.
Subaru Legacy
MSRP: $23,055 With standard all-wheel drive and a suite of available safety tech at a price that undercuts less-equipped competitors, the Legacy is an undeniably smart buy. It’s also a solid performer, with a 2.5-liter, 175-hp flat-four or an optional 3.6-liter, 256-hp flat-six, both paired with a continuously variable automatic. The interior is comfortable, but the infotainment system lacks the latest in smartphone integration. An updated Legacy debuts in summer 2017.
Nissan Altima
MSRP: $23,385 Curvy, dramatic styling mimics bigger brother Maxima and gives the Altima an upscale vibe. Engine choices are either a 182-hp 2.5-liter four or a 270-hp 3.5-liter V-6, both with a CVT. The SR infuses a little fun by adding stiffer suspension tuning, paddle shifters, and unique wheels. Forward emergency braking with adaptive cruise control creates a robust active-safety bundle. Overall, the Altima is a capable sedan with a decent options list and a roomy, comfortable cabin.