When considering the automotive landscape, the midsize luxury sedan segment often stands out as a pinnacle of innovation and refinement. These vehicles are not just cars; they are statements of prestige and technological advancement, frequently debuting cutting-edge features that eventually trickle down to other classes. Manufacturers pour their heritage and values into these models, especially when brands like Mercedes-Benz and BMW are in the mix, setting exceptionally high standards. This pursuit of excellence justifies their premium price tags, positioning them in a sweet spot where further upgrades would demand a significantly larger investment. Here’s a look at some of the Best Midsize Sedans from 2017 that exemplify this blend of luxury and performance.
2017 Acura RLX
The 2017 Acura RLX appeals to those who value understated competence over ostentatious displays. It’s a spacious and sophisticated sedan that quietly delivers on all fronts. While German counterparts often capture headlines, Acura RLX owners consistently praise their vehicles for equipment richness, safety features, refined sophistication, serene cabin ambiance, and overall build quality – all coming standard. The standard engine is a smooth 310-horsepower V6, while a 377-horsepower hybrid variant offers enhanced power and improved driving dynamics with an intelligent approach. For audiophiles, the optional Krell sound system, part of the Advance package, is a notable highlight, bringing a favorite home audio brand into the automotive realm with impressive results.
2017 Audi A6
Despite being on the cusp of a model generation change in 2017, with new iterations of its German rivals already on the market, the Audi A6 remained a highly desirable midsize luxury sedan. A brief five-second immersion into the driver’s seat reveals exceptional build quality and thoughtfully designed interior aesthetics. A short drive quickly confirms its status as a top contender in a competitive class. The 2017 updates included a Competition variant, enhancing the supercharged 3.0-liter V6 engine from 333 hp to 340 hp. Staying current with sporty trends, it also featured a flat-bottomed steering wheel.
2017 BMW 5 Series
Entering its seventh generation in 2017, the BMW 5 Series has long been considered near-perfect, balancing driving pleasure, spaciousness, and advanced technology. This latest model continues this legacy, maintaining its reputation as a driver’s car with a finely tuned balance between responsive handling and ride comfort. Technological advancements are significant in this generation, including gesture control for the infotainment system, remote parking capabilities controlled from outside the vehicle, and integration with Amazon Alexa voice control. The engine range includes a plug-in hybrid alongside BMW’s signature inline-6 engine configuration.
2017 Cadillac CTS
The 2017 Cadillac CTS stands out as the closest American contender to challenge the established European and Japanese luxury brands. Particularly adept in driving dynamics, the CTS chassis is engineered for agility, complementing a range of engine options including a turbo four, a 3.6-liter V6, and a potent 420-hp twin-turbo V6 in the V-Sport model. Beyond performance, it offers features like mobile Wi-Fi, Apple CarPlay, wireless smartphone charging, and a lavishly appointed cabin. For those seeking extreme performance, the 640-hp CTS-V variant, equipped with a supercharged V8, rivals even the formidable BMW M5.
2017 Genesis G80
Hyundai’s strategic move to establish Genesis as a standalone luxury brand bore fruit with models like the 2017 Genesis G80. While not entirely new, the G80 received substantial upgrades and a generous array of standard features that merit serious consideration in the luxury midsize sedan category. Standard leather upholstery and navigation are just the beginning, accompanied by numerous advanced safety technologies such as blind spot monitoring. The cabin is remarkably quiet, and the build quality is exceptional. Focusing primarily on luxury rather than outright sportiness, the G80 offers all-wheel drive as an option, geared more towards enhanced stability in adverse weather conditions than aggressive cornering.
2017 Infiniti Q70
The Infiniti Q70 holds its place among the best midsize luxury sedans, though it acknowledges its position as one of the older models in this competitive class. The 3.7-liter V6 engine, while offering a fun 330 hp, is noted for not being the smoothest. For a more refined luxury experience, the 420-hp 5.6-liter V8 version is recommended. The Q70 distinguishes itself from competitors like Lexus with a suspension tuned for driving thrills. Steering precision is notable, especially in rear-drive configurations. Infiniti has also significantly improved cabin refinement, addressing previous concerns about noise levels.
2017 Jaguar XF
Mirroring Jaguar’s sedan lineage, the XF incorporates extensive aluminum in its construction. This contributes to balanced weight distribution, enhancing the car’s neutral feel, a desirable attribute in driving dynamics. The suspension adeptly balances comfort and precision, complemented by the authoritative power of a supercharged V6 engine. Its unmistakably Jaguar styling elevates it beyond a mere luxury midsize sedan into a truly aspirational vehicle. Jaguar’s driver assistance systems are also praised for their subtle and refined intervention compared to some other brands.
2017 Lexus GS
Positioned as the sportier alternative to the softer, front-wheel-drive ES in Lexus’s midsize sedan offerings, the GS is a versatile all-rounder. Over time, the GS has evolved into a formidable competitor against German dominance in the luxury segment, largely due to its comprehensive standard equipment list that often includes features offered as costly options by rivals. Lexus’s renowned build quality and exceptional dealer service further enhance its appeal. The base model features a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine producing a respectable 241 hp, but for those desiring more power to match the luxury, the 311-hp V6 is a more fitting choice.
2017 Lincoln MKZ
While the MKZ nameplate carries some history from less celebrated periods of Lincoln, the 2017 model marks a significant step in the brand’s resurgence. It boasts a rich array of standard features, and buyers can opt for a potent 400-hp turbocharged V6, creating an engaging all-wheel-drive sport sedan that still maintains a luxurious character. Achieving this level of power and technology in a German vehicle at a comparable price point is challenging. Notably, the hybrid version is priced the same as the standard gasoline model. The MKZ shares its platform with the well-regarded Ford Fusion, leveraging strong foundational engineering.
2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class
The Mercedes-Benz E-Class is quintessential midsize luxury sedan, an icon and a benchmark, completely redesigned for 2017. With optional upgrades, the new E-Class can be equipped with some of the most advanced technology available, including semi-autonomous driving functions like stop-and-go traffic assist and self-parking, along with state-of-the-art safety systems, including a feature to mitigate hearing damage during collisions. Even the base model excels in design, ergonomic layout, ride comfort, and a refined 241-hp 4-cylinder turbocharged engine. Performance enthusiasts can consider the V6-powered E43 AMG (396 hp) and the high-performance E63 AMG versions (563 hp or 608 hp in the S variant), which come standard with all-wheel drive.
