How to find the right mid-sized car for you
Whether you need a car to commute to work or pack the entire family for a road trip, a mid-size car hits the perfect sweet spot by combining practicality and versatility.
A mid-size car typically refers to a category of vehicles that fall between compact or small cars and larger, full-size cars. These mid-sized cars combine utility with comfort and will typically offer more room for passengers and cargo than compact cars while being more manoeuvrable and affordable than large cars.
Let’s explore everything you need to know to find the right mid-sized car for your needs.
What is a mid-sized car?
Mid-size cars, ranging in length from around 4.5 to 4.9 metres, are designed to accommodate up to five people. However, some cars may have seating for seven passengers. These vehicles are available in either a sedan or SUV configuration.
Compared to compact cars, mid-size cars offer ample legroom and space for cargo without the hefty price tag associated with larger cars like UTEs and station wagons. Mid-size cars also offer a good blend of performance and fuel efficiency, which could be an important consideration for many car owners amidst rising fuel prices.
Who is a mid-size car good for?
Mid-sized cars are a practical choice for daily commuters who desire extra legroom without the bulkiness of a large vehicle. They’ve also gained popularity among families and individuals seeking a balance of space and affordability.
A medium-sized car could be a practical and economical option for urban driving needs with a more compact design than the larger vehicles but the movability of cars that are considered compact. These combined features make mid-sized SUVs or sedans a great choice for Individuals and families seeking a spacious and comfortable vehicle that doesn’t compromise on manoeuvrability and performance. Most mid-size cars also offer a good level of safety for drivers and passengers, but you should always compare the safety ratings of various models before selecting one that’s safe and meets your requirements.
How to choose a mid-size car that’s right for you
You may want to focus solely on the price tag when searching for a mid-size car that’s right for you, but it’s best to consider other factors like safety and fuel efficiency.
The combination of these features could greatly enhance your driving experience. After all, your car is a long-term investment, and it’s crucial to prioritise both safety and ongoing costs to pick a vehicle that remains suitable for you in the long run.
Compare safety ratings
When choosing any car, the safety aspect should be a non-negotiable. By considering the safety of a vehicle, you can ensure that you’re doing what you can to protect yourself and your passengers on the road.
One place to start your search for a reliable car could be browsing the ANCAP Safety ratings that allow you to compare the safety standards of various car models. The Australasian New Car Assessment Program, or ANCAP, offers safety ratings between one to five stars by extensively crash-testing cars. Cars with higher safety ratings are supposed to offer a higher degree of protection if there is any sort of collision or accident.
To find a suitable car, simply visit the ANCAP website and select Medium SUV or Medium Car in the filter to view a comprehensive list of medium-sized cars and their safety ratings. You can refine the search by checking a price range, fuel type, and other features you need. The website also allows you to sort by rating year or date stamp, which is important as ANCAP updates its testing criteria regularly.
Also, you’ll want to check when the car was safety tested because even though ANCAP ratings remain valid for up to six years, the more recent the safety rating, the more safety features the car is likely to have. This may not be true of all cars, but it’s worth considering, especially once you get a shortlist of options. You might find two similar cars, with one having a more recent safety rating.
Sedan vs SUV: what you need to know
A mid-size car could be a practical option for those who want a vehicle that hits the sweet spot between comfort and affordability. There is also the benefit of getting a mid-size car in both a sedan and SUV style, depending on the make and model.
Each of these options offers different benefits and will suit different drivers. While the choice between the two ultimately depends on your personal preferences, lifestyle and specific needs, here are some factors that could help you decide.
Feature | Mid-size SUV | Mid-size sedan |
Space and practicality | A medium-sized SUV might offer more cargo space and passenger room than some mid-size sedans. This extra space may suit a larger family or people who want that extra cargo space to carry bulky items. | Mid-size sedans are typically more compact and sleeker. This can benefit people who are manoeuvring the ins and outs of urban or city environments. It especially helps you to fit in those tighter parking spaces. |
Driving experience | SUVs tend to offer better visibility while driving as they sit higher off the ground. SUVSs typically have more ground clearance than sedans and may be preferred by those who regularly tackle uneven roads or rough terrains. | Sedans are generally associated with a more refined driving experience. This comes from the lower ride height and centre of gravity that contribute to better handling and agility on the road. |
Fuel economy | Even though SUVs tend to consume more fuel because they’re heavier vehicles, you may want to consider a hybrid or electric SUV model that might offer better fuel efficiency. | Sedans, in general, are smaller and lighter than SUVs, making them relatively more fuel-efficient. |
Towing capacity | Many SUVs offer higher towing capacity for trailers and boats. | Sedans have lower towing capacities compared to SUVs. |
Lifestyle and preference | An SUV might be your preferred choice if you frequently go for outdoor adventures. Whether that means you need to tow boats or trailers or prefer a rugged appearance. | A sedan could be a good fit for someone seeking a sleek, comfortable ride that handles well in urban areas. |
Budget and affordability
While you may be excited about buying a new car, having a budget is crucial to avoid overextending yourself and ending up in a tricky financial situation. Depending on your financial situation, you may pay for your car upfront or apply for a car loan. If you choose the latter, using a car loan calculator can help you determine the monthly repayments for various loan amounts, ensuring you borrow within your means.
In addition to budgeting for the purchase price of a car, it’s essential to consider the various additional costs associated with car ownership. Whether you decide to buy a new or used vehicle, there are several expenses you need to plan for beyond the initial price. Registration fees and insurance costs are necessary expenses that you’ll need to ensure you can pay for. Depending on where you live and the type of car you buy, you may also want to consider a comprehensive insurance policy, which will likely cost you more than compulsory third-party cover, which is legally required.
You also need to consider ongoing expenses like loan repayments, maintenance and potential repairs. You need to factor these expenses into your budgeting to ensure you can comfortably manage the financial responsibilities of owning a car. Additionally, the interest rate on your car loan will also impact the overall cost of the vehicle, so ensure you compare car loans before deciding on one that suits you.
Comparing mid-sized car options
While safety, style and budget are all critical factors when deciding which car to buy, you may also want to look at other aspects like interiors, mileage, performance, and so on. Car review sites like Drive compare vehicles based on many features, including safety, cost, aesthetics, and performance, which could help you compare models and find one that closely matches your lifestyle.
Here are some of the best mid-size cars in Australia based on Drive’s 2023 Car of the Year awards list:
Skoda Octavia
Skoda Octavia was rated the best in the medium to large car category in both 2022 and 2023. The car is known for its spacious and comfortable interiors, making it a popular choice for those who desire comfort during their everyday commute. The car’s plush interiors and quality materials add to the overall appeal. The Octavia is available as a sedan or station wagon, with a wide range of engines to choose from.
Jaguar F-PACE
Taking out the Best Medium Luxury SUV for the second year, the Jaguar F-Pace stands out with its refined luxury, exceptional ride quality, and advanced technology. It offers a range of engine options for powerful performance and promises a premium driving experience enhanced by its classic interiors and user-friendly design.
Audi SQ5
The high-performance Audi SQ5 SUV was rated the best in the medium SUV category. The Audi SQ5 is particularly known for its turbocharged V6 engine that provides ample power and torque for an exhilarating driving experience.
Remember, purchasing a car is a medium to long-term investment, and finding a vehicle that meets your safety requirements, lifestyle preferences, and financial considerations is crucial. By carefully evaluating all these factors, you can hope to find a car that aligns with your needs and budget.
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Product database updated 22 Nov, 2024
