The Best Midsize Cars for 2011

This is the most hotly-contested segment in today’s market. Bestsellers come from here. Conventional wisdom says to buy an Accord or Camry, but those are boring. The Altima seems like an “alternative” choice, and it is the only one in it’s class to offer it’s top engine with a you-shift-it six-speed. But the thing is, they’re all driven, and later repossessed, by Mexican women. Mexican women don’t read my blog (nor does anyone else) so I can say that here. Point is, either of these two choices will satisfy both sides of your brain.

Fehlio’s Choice: Hyundai Sonata

It's like a beautiful Korean dolphin.

Well, first of all, look at that thing. It’s beautiful. On top of that, it has the best warranty in the business. On top of that, it’s one of the cheapest in the segment. It has the most powerful base engine, and the only direct-injected four-pot in the segment. The turbo four puts out better power AND better mileage than ANY competitor’s V6. And you can get it as a hybrid, if you’re trendy. The Sonata is no longer a great car “for the price”; it’s now the best in it’s class.

Alternately: Ford Fusion

Insert Gillette Fusion Razor joke here.

The fact that the Sonata beat this car is a testament to it’s greatness, as the Fusion is an outstanding car as well. One of the best handlers in its class, the Fusion is a stylish, well-made car that’s an easy recommendation to anyone. From the 5-speed, 4-cylinder commuter special, to the all-wheel-drive, 263 horsepower Sport model, each one is a winner. Add a hybrid model that gets 41 mpg city, and you have a winning range.

Please Don’t: Mitsubishi Galant

Fun Fact: This still exists.

This car is everything the other two aren’t. Basically unchanged since 2003, it’s cheap, crappy, and boring. I mean, even the new Chrysler Sebring (call it the 200 all you want, but it’s a Sebring) would be a better buy. It at least has styling that someone, somewhere might enjoy.