This time, we’ll be ranking the recommended sedan models for 2024 ( Reiwa 6). We’ll be showing you models that are currently available for sale. Some models are actively undergoing new models or full model changes. If you’re considering purchasing a new car or switching to a different model, we hope you’ll use this comparison as a reference when deciding on a car. This time, we’ll be ranking the cars that we recommend overall, taking into account factors such as sales volume, fuel economy, and resale value.
What is the definition of a sedan?
A sedan is a four-door passenger car with a three-box configuration, with the engine, passenger, and cargo compartments. Its distinctive feature is that the hood, cabin, and trunk are all separate, making it attractive for its stable driving and comfortable ride. Sedans also generally have a sporty design and a luxurious feel, making them suitable for business and formal occasions. In recent years, they have been gaining attention again due to improvements in fuel efficiency and safety.
1. Toyota Crown Sedan, the third model in the Crown series
Toyota will officially announce and begin selling the new Crown Sedan, the third model in the Crown series, on November 2, 2023. One year prior, on September 1, 2022, Toyota launched the SUV coupe-style Crown (Crossover) as a new challenge.
About the new Crown (sedan) exterior
The front features unique headlights with daytime running lights . The Crown emblem continues to be used . The rear features LED rear combination lamps, which are thin and sharp, stretching horizontally. The body color is a modern two-tone color. The drive system is based on FR, and all vehicles are equipped with a hybrid system . The platform is a newly developed platform based on TNGA. The chassis has been honed at the Nürburgring, and the technology that has greatly advanced the vehicle’s performance in terms of “running, turning, and stopping” is inherited.
2023 Toyota Crown Sedan
About the interior of the new Crown (sedan)
The interior is standardized, so no matter which model you drive, you’ll think, “That’s a Crown!” The instrument panel design integrates the display audio. The meter uses a ” large 12.3-inch full LCD digital meter .” The navigation system is “Connected Navigation .” It also features a ” Digital Inner Mirror ” and Toyota’s first “Drive Recorder (Front and Rear) . ” In-car Wi-Fi is available as an option for the display audio .
Safety Technology for the New Crown Sedan
The car will feature the next-generation “Toyota Safety Sense” with more advanced features than the previous model. It will also detect oncoming vehicles moving straight ahead when turning right and pedestrians crossing the street after turning right or left . The MIRAI will also feature “Toyota Teammate” advanced driving assistance technology , the latest advanced driving assistance technology developed based on Toyota Motor Corporation’s unique “Mobility Teammate Concept” autonomous driving philosophy of driving together. It will also incorporate AI technology centered on deep learning, helping to predict and respond to various situations that may be encountered while driving. It will also feature ” Advanced Park “.
2. Lexus ES300h
Lexus “ES300h” exterior
The new ES300h’s exterior design has been updated with a minor change. The new mesh-pattern spindle grille features a three-dimensional, polyhedral structure starting from the tip of the grille, emphasizing its presence. The mesh pattern, combined with a block shape inspired by the spindle, creates a sporty impression. The headlights feature a new, slim lamp unit, the BladeScan® Adaptive High-beam System (AHS) (standard on the “Version L” and “F Sport” models). The standard ES300h’s 17-inch wheels feature thicker spoke ends that emphasize the texture of the machined finish, and the overlapping V-shape creates a sporty impression. The 18-inch wheels, available as a factory option, feature multi-axis spokes that create a striking contrast between the machined finish and the dark gray metallic paint. New body colors are available: ” Sonic Iridium ” and ” Sonic Chrome .”
ES300h “version.L”
ES300h “F SPORT”
Lexus “ES300h” interior
The interior features a touch display multimedia system.
The display has been moved approximately 100mm closer and tilted by approximately 5 degrees, allowing the driver’s hands to reach the corners of the screen. Glass material has been used for the screen, improving visibility and operability. Walnut material has been used for the ornament decoration, creating a luxurious look. Newly developed ink black and dark brown have been adopted. In addition, a processing method has been adopted in which each hairline is engraved with a laser. New brown-based colors, ” mauve ” and ” hazel “, have been adopted. ” Nanoe X ” has been adopted.
ES300h “version.L”
ES300h “F SPORT”
Lexus “ES300h” safety features
Adoption of advanced preventive safety technologies, including the evolved “Lexus Safety System +.” Added features include ” low-speed acceleration suppression function ,” ” detection of oncoming vehicles and pedestrians when turning right at intersections ,” ” emergency steering avoidance support function ,” and ” curve speed suppression function .” Improved camera performance for both the digital outer mirror and digital inner mirror.
Lexus “ES300h” partial improvement in 2022
Lexus’ ES300h will undergo some improvements and will be released in Japan on July 28, 2022.
The navigation display has been updated to include the multimedia system and connected services.
It comes equipped with a ” digital key ” and ” remote air conditioning .”
A new touch display has been adopted. The touchpad “Remote Touch” has been discontinued , and a new “USB-A port” and “USB-C port” have been adopted for playing drinks and charging devices.
The hybrid emblem has been changed to black.
The microSD card slot and CD/DVD/Blu-ray player will be discontinued.
Current “ES300h”
New model “ES300h”
Like the NX and RX , the multimedia system and connected services have been updated. The center console has been improved and now offers two cup holders, a USB-A port and a USB-C port for playback and device charging. For convenience, the wireless charging tray has been moved from the inside to the outside of the console box.
Current “ES300h”
New model “ES300h”
Lexus “ES300h” latest multimedia system and improved cockpit usability
The multimedia system and connected services have been revamped.
It features a larger, higher-resolution 12.3-inch touch display and the latest multimedia system that is intuitive and easy to use.
Renewed multimedia system and connected services
We offer services tailored to your everyday needs, greatly expanding G-Link functionality, and updating your multimedia system with OTA software updates.
With the switch to a touchscreen display, the shape and layout of the switches around the instrument panel and console have been optimized. The seat heater switches, which were previously located in the center of the instrument panel, have been moved to the top of the console, and in the space created at the front of the console, two new “USB-A port” and “USB-C port” have been installed for playback and device charging. In addition, the space for the self-charging device has been moved, and LED lighting has been added to the top, improving usability.
3rd place: Lexus IS
Lexus made a major minor change to the IS and released it on November 5, 2020.
Lexus “IS” minor change exterior
The exterior design concept is “Agile & Provocative,” and aims for an aggressive design with a wide and low stance that suggests driving performance and sharp character lines.
The low center of gravity is expressed through the adoption of thin headlamps equipped with newly developed compact and lightweight lamp units, the low grille area and correspondingly lowered side character lines, and the shape of the rear end of the luggage compartment. The car also features protruding front and rear fenders, L-shaped single-letter signature lamps, and a three-dimensional bumper garnish. In addition, the newly designed 19-inch tires and wide tread create proportions that suggest a sporty driving performance. The gently sloping rear quarter pillars wrap around from the sides to create a taut cabin silhouette, and the contrast with the protruding rear fenders creates an aggressive impression.
The sharp character line of the rear fenders is achieved by adopting the “push-up method,” which adds a molding process that pushes up from the inside during the body panel manufacturing process. In addition, a mechanism has been added that allows the mold to slide from the side in accordance with the vertical press movement, resulting in the development of the world’s first “Yoseshibori method,” which enables the precise, three-dimensional shape that is unique to Lexus. This has resulted in a highly precise, sharper shape for the character line at the rear end of the luggage compartment. The newly designed spindle grille has a three-dimensional polyhedral structure starting from the tip of the grille, emphasizing its presence. The block shape based on the spindle motif is combined with a mesh pattern to create a sporty impression. Two new exterior colors have been added: “Sonic Iridium” and “Sonic Chrome.”
Lexus “IS” minor change interior
The multimedia system now features a new 10.3-inch wide touch display that is compatible with SmartDeviceLink, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Convenience has been greatly improved, with both screen and voice control now possible. The upper part of the instrument panel and door panels feature chromatic colors in a two-tone color scheme. The contrast created by the two-tone color scheme creates a color coordination that creates an uplifting feeling when riding. Part of the door trim features a graphic pattern with multiple intersecting embossed lines, a new decorative expression for Lexus. Ash (open finish/black ink), black geometry film, and F SPORT-exclusive satin chrome are newly adopted for the ornament panel.
About the Lexus “IS” special edition “F SPORT Mode Black”
The special edition “F SPORT Mode Black” is based on the IS350/IS300 “F SPORT” and features exclusive aluminum wheels and a black-based color scheme, refining the IS’s distinctive driving performance and design. The matte black painted forged aluminum wheels, developed in collaboration with BBS, have been lightened, further reducing unsprung mass. Black painted door mirrors are also used.
The interior features a specially designed steering wheel and ornament panel made of ash wood finished in a silver ink color. Special equipment includes genuine leather sports seats exclusive to the “F SPORT” model, with a high-gloss paint finish on the elegant grain of ash wood, and a special meter opening.
Lexus “IS” second generation “Lexus Safety System +”
The second-generation preventive safety package, “Lexus Safety System +,” which includes collision avoidance assistance and the advanced driving assistance function “Lexus CoDrive,” will be adopted as standard equipment on all vehicles.
The camera recognizes the white and yellow lines of the driving lane, and if it detects the possibility of lane departure, it alerts the driver with a buzzer, a display, and vibrations on the steering wheel to help avoid collisions caused by lane departure.The vehicle is also equipped with Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), which controls the electric power steering and supports the driver’s steering operation to make it easier to stay within the lane.
4. Toyota Corolla
With the unification of the global name from Auris to “Corolla”, the names were reorganized, and ” Corolla ” and ” Corolla Touring ” were changed to Japanese specifications , replacing “Corolla Fielder” and “Corolla Axio”. “Corolla Fielder” became a wagon based on “Corolla Sport” and was larger in size than the previous model.
Toyota “Corolla” exterior
The exterior has the same design as the new Corolla Sport , and features full LED headlights with a face design very similar to that of the new Prius, Bi-Beam LED headlights that shine in a J-shape and can be used to switch between high and low beams with a single eye + LED turn lamps + LED clearance lamps & LED daytime running lights or three-lamp LED headlights + LED turn lamps + LED clearance lamps, LED fog lamps, a newly designed front grille, and rear all-LED lamp clusters.
Toyota “Corolla” interior
The interior features LED interior lighting and an electric parking brake. A 7-inch TFT multi-information display is placed in the center of the meter. “Display Audio” compatible with CarPlay and Android Auto is standard equipment . A DCM in-car communication device is standard equipment, and the basic fee for connected services is free for five years (from the sixth year onwards, it is 3,300 yen/year [excluding tax] or 300 yen/month [excluding tax]).
Folding down the second row seats makes it possible to carry bicycles, furniture, etc. Interior dimensions: Luggage width: 1464mm, length with seats unfolded: 889mm, length with seats folded: 1652mm.
Toyota “Corolla” adopts new TNGA technology
This time, development is proceeding based on the technology of the new Prius , which went on sale on December 9, 2015, and is one size larger than the previous model, moving from the Vitz-series B platform to the C segment. It could be called a Prius station wagon. By adopting a newly developed platform called TNGA (Toyota New Global Architecture) (GA-C platform) , it has a larger interior space than the previous model. The overall height is slightly lower than the previous model, and a lower center of gravity can be achieved.
Toyota Corolla 2022 partial improvement
The Corolla/Corolla Touring will undergo some improvements on October 3, 2022.
The exterior design has been changed.
The meter display for higher grade models will be a 7-inch to 12.3-inch TFT display.
The display audio has been enlarged. The 7-inch display audio has been discontinued. It is now the 8-inch display audio and the 10.5-inch display audio plus .
The navigation system has been changed to the new “Connected Navi” system used in the new “Noah Voxy” and other models .
It is equipped with the latest preventive safety package, “Toyota Safety Sense,” which adds advanced functions and improves functionality .
Changes to the engine lineup. ( 1.5L direct injection Dynamic Force Engine M15A type ) ( Improved inline 4-cylinder DOHC 1.8L engine “2ZR-FXE” motor )
Corolla
Corolla
Corolla Touring
Corolla Touring
The exterior design has been changed (front bumper, headlights, etc.), and new body colors have been added. Inside, the meter display for the higher grade “WxB” has been upgraded from a 7-inch to a 12.3-inch TFT display. The display audio has been changed to a model compatible with the “Connected Navigation” system used in the new “Noah/Voxy” (personally, I find this disappointing). The “7-inch Display Audio” has been discontinued. ” 8-inch Display Audio ,” ” 10.5-inch Display Audio Plus ,” and “Display Audio-less Specification” have been added. The “CD/DVD” deck has been discontinued.
Corolla
Corolla
Corolla Touring
Corolla Touring
The gasoline engines, “inline 4-cylinder DOHC 1.2L direct injection turbo” and “1.8L inline 4-cylinder DOHC engine”, have been discontinued. In place of the new generation “inline 3-cylinder 1.5L direct injection Dynamic Force Engine M15A type” is combined with a “Direct Shift-CVT” with launch gear. Furthermore, the hybrid model uses a fifth-generation hybrid system, a series-parallel hybrid with a reduction mechanism that combines an improved inline 4-cylinder DOHC 1.8L engine “2ZR-FXE” with a motor . (As expected from Toyota, they used an older engine.)
The latest preventive safety package “Toyota Safety Sense” is equipped with advanced functions and improved functionality, and includes “low-speed acceleration suppression function,” “detection of oncoming vehicles and pedestrians when turning right at intersections,” and “emergency steering avoidance support function.” The “driver abnormality response system” is adopted, and a curve speed suppression function has been added to the “radar cruise control.”
5. Honda “Civic Type R” “Civic”
Honda will fully redesign the Civic Type R, a sports model based on the new Civic, and release it on September 2, 2022. At the same time, the Civic’s first hybrid model, the e:HEV, will be added.
About the Honda Civic
The “e:HEV” hybrid model has been added.
“e:HEV” model features a 10.2-inch digital graphic meter
“Active Sound Control” adopted
Set the drive mode to “Individual” for individual settings
This will be the Civic’s first hybrid model, and will use the e:HEV inline-four 2.0L DOHC i-VTEC + motor “i-MMD two-motor hybrid system” that is also installed in the new Stepwagon .
About the Honda Civic exterior
Civic eHEV
About the Honda Civic interior
The interior is designed with a horizontal and linear theme, based on the concept of HMI (Human Machine Interface), reducing eye movement, arranging controls along the flow of traffic, and improving visibility. A “sleek and long cabin” has been adopted to provide a solid form with a solid core and a refreshing view from all seats. The upper part of the dash has been designed with fewer cut lines to prevent reflections on the windshield. The mirrors have also been moved away from the A-pillars to improve visibility.
The meter uses a new 10.2-inch instrument cluster . The center display uses a 9-inch Honda CONNECT Honda display . It is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto . It is equipped with Honda CONNECT, an in-vehicle communication module exclusive to Honda vehicles . It uses a 12-speaker BOSE audio system and is equipped with an Auto Brake Hold function that keeps the vehicle stopped even if you take your foot off the brake pedal while stopped, and is released when you step on the accelerator, making it useful in traffic jams . It also uses a parking brake system .
About the Honda Civic Type R
The new Civic Type R aims to achieve the ultimate in pure sports performance, combining the essential values of a sports model – speed – with sensual driving pleasure. Honda’s unique VTEC TURBO engine has been further refined to achieve increased power and torque ( maximum power output 330ps, maximum torque 42.8kgm ), pursuing an exhilarating driving feel that will get you engrossed in driving. Equipped with Honda LogR, a data logger dedicated to the Type R, it transmits mechanical movement information and other data in real time, providing a new level of driving pleasure.
Introducing the new Civic Type R.
It employs a new 2.0L 4-cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine, increasing maximum power and torque.
The meter uses a new 10.2-inch instrument cluster .
The center display uses a 9-inch Honda CONNECT Honda display .
Equipped with Honda LogR, a data logger specifically designed for the Type R
The new Civic Type R has set a new record for the fastest front-wheel drive (FF) model in a time attack at Suzuka Circuit , recording a lap time of 2 minutes 23.120 seconds . The powertrain is a new 2.0L 4-cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine with a maximum output of 330 PS and a maximum torque of 42.8 kgm. This surpasses the previous model’s maximum output of 320 PS and maximum torque of 40.8 kgm.
The powertrain will be a new 2.0L 4-cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine. Of course, it will surpass the previous model in terms of maximum power and torque. It will have a maximum power output of 320 hp and a maximum torque of 40.8 kgm, a 6-speed manual transmission, and a 2WD (FF) drivetrain. Test runs are already underway overseas.
The design is more refined and premium than the previous model, giving it a lower, wider stance. Starting with the 10th-generation model’s lower overall height and lower hip point, the new “thin and light” design ethos was applied, including a lower hood and front fenders, and a lower, horizontal beltline. Strategic use of high-tensile steel and aluminum has improved torsional rigidity and enhanced bending stiffness, which has benefits for ride comfort, handling, and safety.
To enhance cornering ability and further improve vehicle performance, the “TYPE R Special Tuned Tires” were jointly developed with Michelin. The tire width has been widened to 265mm, and by combining different tread compounds with unique characteristics using Michelin’s proprietary technology, excellent dry grip performance is achieved while maintaining wet performance and wear resistance. To achieve stability during limit driving, downforce has been effectively improved at both the front and rear, and excellent aerodynamic performance has been achieved by meticulously paying attention to the detailed shape of the body.
The car features Type R-exclusive red accent sports seats , a new 10.2-inch instrument cluster , a 9-inch Honda CONNECT Honda display for the center display , and is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto . It is equipped with Honda CONNECT, an in-vehicle communication module exclusive to Honda vehicles . The advanced safety driving support system Honda SENSING is standard equipment.
summary
Sedans are currently experiencing a slump in domestic sales, and it has been announced that the legendary Toyota Camry will be discontinued in Japan . However, given its comfortable ride, ease of driving for its size, and its resistance to front and rear collisions, it would be a shame to dismiss it as a candidate. When purchasing a car, it is important to consider the various uses of a sedan.
