What is a mid-size sedan?

The EPA defines a mid-size car as a vehicle with a maximum of 120 cubic feet of combined passenger and cargo volume, and a maximum length of 196.8 inches. Just because the EPA defines a car as mid-size, however, does not mean it's necessarily a mid-size car by our standards. For instance, the EPA considered the flagship Jaguar XJ sedan of the late ’90s a compact car, even though it was marketed and competed against full-size luxury sedans.

Are mid-size sedans good for families?

Mid-size sedans can work well for small families, as they cost less to own versus a similarly classed SUV and fit into more places. We suggest upgrading to something bigger if you're regularly transporting more than four people at a time, however.

What is the difference between a mid-size and full-size sedan?

Full-size sedans are typically larger than mid-size models. They also tend to serve as an automaker's flagship sedan option.

Best Mid-Size Family Sedans for 2021

Car and Driver's rankings are arrived at from the results of our extensive instrumented testing of several hundred vehicles each year and from our expert editors' subjective impressions gained in real-world driving. We've ranked the best mid-size family sedans based on roughly 200 data points encompassing acceleration, handling, comfort, cargo space, fuel efficiency, value, and how enjoyable they are to drive. We take rankings seriously because we want you to know everything about the vehicles that you're interested in.

Read about how we test and evaluate vehicles here.

Top Ranked Mid-Size Family Sedans for 2021 at a glance

C/D Rating: 10/10

2021

Honda Accord

$25,985 - $37,915

Shop Now

C/D Rating: 9.5/10

2021

Mazda Mazda 6

$25,470 - $36,895

Shop Now

C/D Rating: 9/10

2021

Kia K5

$24,585 - $31,585

Shop Now

Shop the Top 3 Mid-Size Family Sedans for 2021

See full list

2021 Honda Accord

/10

C/D RATING

VIEW PHOTOS

Starting at

$25,985

SHOP USED Accord

EPA MPG

26–48 combined

C/D SAYS: The 2021 Honda Accord reigns supreme among family sedans thanks to its balanced performance and handling, spacious cabin, and undeniable value. Learn More

#1 in Best Hybrid Sedans Under $45,000

#1 in Best Mid-Size Family Sedans

#2 in Best Hybrid Vehicles Built in America

#3 in Best Cars for Families for Under $40,000

2021 Mazda 6

9.5

/10

C/D RATING

VIEW PHOTOS

Starting at

$25,470

SHOP USED Mazda 6

EPA MPG

26–29 combined

C/D SAYS: More than any other family sedan, the Mazda 6 exudes an upper-class aura that encompasses its elegant styling, library-like cabin, and charming driving manners. Learn More

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

2021 Kia K5

/10

C/D RATING

VIEW PHOTOS

Starting at

$24,585

SHOP USED K5

EPA MPG

27–32 combined

C/D SAYS: Along with a flashy appearance, the all-new Kia K5 sedan delivers an upscale experience at an accessible price, and there's even a sporty 290-hp GT variant. Learn More

#3 in Best Mid-Size Family Sedans

2021 Hyundai Sonata

8.5

/10

C/D RATING

VIEW PHOTOS

Starting at

$24,955

SHOP USED Sonata

EPA MPG

27–52 combined

C/D SAYS: With a roomy and refined cabin, the Hyundai Sonata delivers an upscale and feature-laden experience at a great price, albeit with limited driving enjoyment. Learn More

#3 in Best Hybrid Mid-Size Sedans

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

2021 Toyota Camry

8.5

/10

C/D RATING

VIEW PHOTOS

Starting at

$26,070

SHOP USED Camry

EPA MPG

25–52 combined

C/D SAYS: The Toyota Camry returns to its former glory thanks largely to its exciting lineup, improved build quality, and priority on standard safety features. Learn More

#2 in Best Mid-Size Family Sedans

#2 in Best Hybrid Mid-Size Sedans

#3 in Safest Sedans

➡️ Skip the lot. Let Car and Driver help you find your next car.

Shop the Top 5 Mid-Size Family Sedans for 2021

2021 Nissan Altima

/10

C/D RATING

VIEW PHOTOS

Starting at

$25,645

SHOP USED Altima

EPA MPG

29–32 combined

C/D SAYS: Despite available all-wheel drive and its sportiest model being fun to pilot, the Nissan Altima is not as desirable or engaging as the best family sedans. Learn More

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

2021 Subaru Legacy

7.5

/10

C/D RATING

VIEW PHOTOS

Starting at

$23,820

SHOP USED Legacy

EPA MPG

27–30 combined

C/D SAYS: The 2021 Subaru Legacy shares its platform and powertrains with the Outback station wagon but trades the rugged appearance for something less adventurous. Learn More

2021 Volkswagen Passat

/10

C/D RATING

VIEW PHOTOS

Starting at

$24,990

SHOP USED Passat

EPA MPG

28 combined

C/D SAYS: The Volkswagen Passat is a generic family sedan, but it provides the price points and roster of features that will make it popular with some shoppers' needs. Learn More

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

2021 Chevrolet Malibu

/10

C/D RATING

VIEW PHOTOS

Starting at

$23,265

SHOP USED Malibu

EPA MPG

26–32 combined

C/D SAYS: Beneath the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu's sleek exterior hides a fairly ho-hum interior and hardware that gets the job done but little more. Learn More

2021 Honda Clarity

6.5

/10

C/D RATING

VIEW PHOTOS

Starting at

$34,415

SHOP USED Clarity

EPA MPGe

68 combined

C/D SAYS: If you're looking for cutting-edge alternative-fuel technology, the Honda Clarity, which offers two very different powertrains, is a good place to start. Learn More