Midsize cars are some of the most popular vehicles among car buyers. Despite this, however, very few actually understand just what makes a car midsized and how it differs from subcompact, compact, and full-size cars.
What Is Considered a Midsize Car?
In order to be considered a specific size, a vehicle has to fall within a specific dimension and length. Full-size cars have to have more than 120 cubic feet of interior space, while subcompact cars have to have between 85 to 89 cubic feet of interior space.
As for midsize cars, the vehicle’s interior volume has to be at least 110 cubic feet up to 120 cubic feet, and its maximum length has to be 196.8 inches.
Advantages of Owning a Midsize Car vs. a Full-Size Car
Car dimensions might seem simple enough, but they actually play a big role in a lot of things. Here are some of the advantages of midsize cars:
Lots of Room for Passengers and Cargo
Most subcompact and compact cars can fit four to five people, but they can certainly be a little tight for those who want a little more legroom. With a midsize car, you don’t have to worry about that.
Midsize cars can comfortably seat up to five people with more than enough head and leg room. They offer a lot more cargo space too, so they’re perfect for going on road trips with the family or a small group of friends. You can haul sports gear, heavy luggage, and other large items in your trunk with no problem.
Cost Less than Full-Size Cars
When it comes to price, the midsize versus full-size car battle is easily won by midsize cars. Midsize cars are smaller than full-size cars, so it’s certainly no surprise that they cost less.
If you’re on a budget but need more space than a compact car can provide, then a midsize car is the way to go.
Fuel Efficient
What’s one thing most midsize cars are known for? The answer is fuel efficiency. Manufacturers typically prioritize mileage when designing midsize cars, so you can find a variety of midsize cars in the market with a selection of engine options and aerodynamic exteriors.
Equipped With Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems
Most midsize cars come equipped with advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). Collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist are some examples of ADAS that come standard in most mid-size cars.
Easy To Drive
Driving around in a large car can be hard, especially when you have to frequent tight roads and small parking spaces. With a midsize car, you can navigate through tight spaces a lot easier than with a full-size car.
Lower Maintenance Costs
Yet another advantage that comes with owning a midsize car is lower maintenance costs. Maintenance costs for full-size cars can be pricey, especially if you have to repair any important systems in your vehicle.
With midsize cars, you can regularly keep up with your routine maintenance without breaking the bank.
Cheaper To Insure
Owning a car can be expensive, so it’s only natural to want to save up on as many fees as possible and that includes your car insurance. Car insurance premiums depend on a lot of factors, such as where you live, your driving history, and the type of car you drive.
Expensive vehicles typically come with higher auto insurance premiums, which means you’ll end up paying a lot more when insuring a full-size car compared to a midsize vehicle.
Of course, size isn’t the only factor that goes into it. Midsize cars are generally known as the safe and reliable choice of car. In the eyes of insurance companies, people who drive midsize cars are a lot less likely to get into a serious accident and make an insurance claim.
Best Midsize Cars
The market is overflowing with options for reliable midsize cars, so it’s no surprise if you’re feeling a little overwhelmed.
Luckily, US News has compiled the best midsize cars for 2024, including a few ones to look forward to in 2023.
- 2024 Honda Accord
- 2024 Kia K5
- 2024 Toyota Camry
- 2023 Hyundai Sonata
- 2024 Subaru Legacy
- 2024 Nissan Altima
- 2024 Chevrolet Malibu
Keep Reading: Related Posts
Any information provided on this Website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace consultation with a professional mechanic. The accuracy and timeliness of the information may change from the time of publication.
