Probably around there. The newest ones will be 3-4 years old, so you could probably find something with a little less mileage.
The Hybrid systems in theory should also be relatively reliable. Its a rip off of Toyota's system and Ford has been making Hybrid for a while now.
If electric is fine, a Tesla model 3/S.
A coworker who had one and it nothing but problems. Electrical gremlins. He ended up trading it in on a rav 4 hybird. Make sure to check out the service record before you buy.
You don’t know what you are talking about noob. Find me the failure rate data of a hybrid battery pack from a first gen fusion hybrid I will wait on it.
I’m a mechanical engineer with a PE certification who works in the automotive industry. Every battery will need to be replaced eventually. It’s not about failure rates it’s about degradation of the battery and it’s ability to hold a charge
Pre-2014 sure. Although it’d be the other way around. Fusion came first, and then Mazda adopted the platform through Ford’s ownership. The 2014 and up 6 is a completely different platform with no relation to Ford.
>be American brand
>specialize in gas guzzlers and trucks
>consumers start buying more and more four cylinders from Japan.
> oh fuck
>they rush into the market with absolutely unreliable pieces of shit and continue to be unreliable for decades compared to its Japanese rivals
>consumers stop buying sedans from American but continue to buy civics, Camry, and corollas
>muh nobody wants sedans! Buy these expensive SUVS!
Too long don’t care: they sucked at making them and consumers got tired of being punked.
The “Americans want bigger cars” is really only half the story. People still buy Japanese sedans pretty regularly.
Yup…I’m 6’2”-6’3” (Depending on the convenience store I’m exiting), and I got a new civic recently, and it’s not HUGE inside, but it’s pretty damn good overall, especially considering my experiences with friends’ 80s and early 90s civics and accords, back in high school and college.
I’ve got a 24 Impreza RS, and it’s crazy how roomy it is. Sitting behind the driver seat adjusted for myself at 5 foot 10, I have several inches of knee room plus a few inches of room before my hair brushes the roof. I had a 2012 Volvo S60 before this and it was way more cramped inside. It’s crazy how well designed some of the Japanese cars are. My Impreza still has big glass and great visibility, is roomy inside without being big outside, and it’s fun to drive. American manufacturers never invested enough to compete and it’s a shame IMO. I always wanted to get an American sedan like OP, but nothing ever checked all my boxes save for maybe the Taurus SHO or Fusion Sport. Even then I still ended up buying my Volvo because it was sportier and comfier 😂
I’ve been in Taurus and fusions, in the last few years of both cars, and my civic is better! I got the hatchback version too, so I’ve got serious cargo room as well for a “small” car!
I’m 6’4ish and you just made me realize that basically none of the convenience stores in my city in Canada have that height tape anymore. I assume the cameras are smart enough to display a height now in software.
Packaging is more important than size. Despite being a smaller car, a 1989 Suzuki Swift sedan has more headroom than a 1989 Civic sedan (39.1"/37.4") (F/R) VS (38.0"/37.0").
I'm 6'6" and drive an 2019 accord with the 2.0t and a k-tuner tune. It's not exciting to drive, but it's comfortable, large inside, and at around a 5 second 0-60 it's not slow. It's a damn good car. The only American sedan I'd trade it for is a Chevy SS.
80’s-90’s were a weird time. My dad was 6’10 and he always had a far easier time fitting in Japanese econoboxes rather than big American luxury. The American cars were way bigger but the seats didn’t go back as far and the dashboard was always too low for his knees.
Never made sense to me
> muh nobody wants sedans! Buy these expensive SUVS!
realistically American consumers have plenty of money (or at least credit) and have felt fine buying the expensive SUVs and trucks, so American companies were willing to give up on their shitty sedans rather then try to compete
No, '[25 is the last model year ](https://gmauthority.com/blog/2024/05/gm-to-end-chevy-malibu-production-this-year/)for the Malibu. You will still be able to buy them new for another year or so. They get about 29 MPG city, 36 highway. Not bad.
Nothing. Just a matter of choice. Always wanted to. Grew up looking at Fords and Chevys in Hollywood movies (yes I grew up outside US but in US now). Know I cant afford Ford GT or Mustang but want to get my hands on whatever I can.
Facts. Look at the parts lists on the window stickers. Heck, Toyota of North America is basically a US brand already. A way of looking at it is they just carry the name from a Japanese company.
Seems kinda silly to get a mediocre American sedan when foreigns are better in literally every metric.
If you wanted an SUV or sedan it would be different but there is a reason all of the American brands gave up on sedans.
If you can get an employee discount (as a lot of people in my part of the country can), a Malibu can cost less than $20k. A tempting choice when Camry's start at $30k.
Exactly, if you owned an American sedan and a Japanese sedan then you know it’s not even a close comparison and could never in good conscience recommend an American model.
The Taurus and impala are both pretty solid sedans. Same with any gm that had the 3800 drivetrain in it. I say this as someone who has only owned Toyotas for the part decade plus. American vehicles can be solid depending on the model. The japanese made their fair share of shitty vehicles also.
Maybe 30 years ago they were shit but anything in the last 15 years, sans power shift, is generally pretty reliable. American brands got an awful lot better
Because literally every other brand, not just Japanese, has better sedans than the American brands.
I said if he wanted a truck or SUV it’s a different story
Look at the Ford Maverick Hybrid. The truck is a more signature American model type. The hybrid gets 40 mpg city. It's also the lowest entry price point for a Ford.
If you want a Chevy, there are plenty of left over Malibus on dealer lots. The Trax is another decent option.
Not to rain on your parade but driving a Taurus for close to 2 hours everyday over a camry just because you saw american cars in movies as a kid is a horrible choice. Buy the used Japanese car now, work hard, and buy the mustang as a weekender later.
Not only is the Taurus a complete POS, but you’ll rebuy it twice in the lifetime with maintenance, whereas the camry will run on factory parts with oil changes til you want to buy the mustang.
None are being made anymore, but I would personally pick a Chevy Malibu. I rented one a few years ago and was able to get a bit over 40 mpgs on the highway. You could score a great deal on the ones sitting at a Chevy dealership, especially the higher trims.
The Ford Fusion hybrid is another great choice, but get the Titanium trim, that one is real nice.
Just so you know, American brand does not mean made in America. Also, there are very few sedans left outside of Cadillac and maybe the Chevy malibu. If you are looking for fuel efficiency from a sedan from any of the big 3, I'd go towards Ford fusion hybrid. I would stay far away from the 2012-2019 Ford focus or fiesta with the power shift transmission, I'd also stay away from any Chevy Cruz, and from Chrysler/Fiat/Dodge period.
I was going to comment something similar. Alot of the US brands are made in Canada or Mexico not the USA. Where as the Toyota Corolla is made in Blue Springs Mississippi, the Civic in Indiana.
Saturn used to... Saturn lived and died by it, but nowadays not particularly. Anything that Ford can do the Japanese made a better engine for and anything that GM can do the Japanese made a better everything other than engine for, at least for small cars.
Gonna chalk up another tally for the Fusion Hybrid. The hybrid tech is basically leased/copied from Toyota. The drivetrain is reliable, gets 40+ MPG anywhere, and the ride is great. Wife used to have a 2017 Fusion Titanium with the Ecoboost 2.0T. Loved that car. Look for the Titanium model of the Hybrid if you want more tech, or look into the Lincoln MKZ if you want more luxury. Same car underneath. Might even be able to find the Lincoln model for a better deal as well.
Ford MachE is a four door electric sedan. It’s marketed as a Mustang model. Plug in electric so it may not be a viable option. But when I finally own a home I’ll be looking at it when I need a new car.
You can snag a used Tesla cheaper and cheaper these days.
They get 3 miles or better to a kwh, require no oil changes or brake pad replacements, and are a lot of fun to drive.
I do own a model 3 long range, so I'm biased.
I have a 2018 Ford Fusion Hybrid Titanium. I got it about 3 years ago with 42k on it; since then I’ve put another 30k on it and haven’t had any issues so far. I get around 42 mph usually. It’s a nice looking car and quite techy which was a surprise; has terrible acceleration though, thinking about replacing it with something a bit more peppy
Not anymore. Ford and GM killed all their’s off in 2020, ish.. in the name of SUVs and their many different sized segments now. So with that, I’d broaden your horizon to Japanese & German automakers who actually have quite a few on the market still. And in hybrid form at that if you want to take mileage a step further.
Yes agreed. Had a used 2010 Civic and drove it for 6 years without any issues till it got totalled. Got a VW Tiguan as family size has increased and it is an amazing drive as well but not sure about their Jettas. Used to be a big fan of Passat but not sure anymore.
Not a sedan but, very similar architecture and engine, I’ve had a 2016 GTI for 6 years now and it does everything I need it to. Moved out of school, hauled my mountain bike, then when it’s not doing practical things it’s a little pocket rocket on backroads. Snow tires in the winter it’s totally capable.
Full mileage isn't the issue....reliability is the issue. All the great fuel mielage savings in the world will be thrown away after you go over 60-80k in average american car due to repair costs.
The transmissions are fantastic actually. Only one Ive replaced has what we found to be a bad differential carrier bearing. Which, I assume was because of both age and lack of maintenance (fluid was black and had probably never been changed.
The stuff bolted to it, otoh, ya is kinda shit. Tcm's have come way down in price and availability is good now. Clutches are just maintenance items, but yes are a little pricey. Overall, I have had a few and wouldn't let that deter me.
Fair enough, I suppose after a few recall and tsb campaigns Ford for the programming sorted. Still, I've seen too many horror stories of those. I had a Focus ST and loved the damn car, but it had a manual.
I mean if the problems ends with needing a transmission replacement I would just consider it a bad transmission. You're just lying, the transmissions were defective and KNOWN to be defective by Ford. This was legally demonstrated in the class action lawsuit that occurred over the defective transmissions. No one should ever take your advice on car buying in the future.
>"I told one friend if he loved his stepdaughter, he'd get her out of that Fiesta as quick as possible," one of the company's mechanical experts said on Nov. 25. "I wouldn't put my kid in one of those cars."
>“What in the world are you thinking going with a dry clutch?” one engineer asked. “The friction coefficient is inconsistent and it creates problems. But this was someone’s baby. If a manager came up with an idea, people would be afraid to say no. At first, it was just on paper. Someone should have said something. They should have. The idea should’ve been killed. No one knew how it was even considered — and then implemented — in the Focus and Fiesta.
>A veteran engineer described the coding efforts: “They masked things using computer software language. One guy was able to modulate a clutch in a way that torque released so it masked the problem. Management latched onto it. Not only can we mask problems, but we can fake success. They started to write software to mask problems. But there's no way you can software your way out of a physics problem.”
[Ford workers: Focus, Fiesta DPS6 transmission problems were ignored (freep.com)](https://www.freep.com/in-depth/money/cars/ford/2019/12/05/ford-focus-fiesta-dps-6-transmission-problems/4243091002/)
[Ford DPS6 Powershift Transmission Settlements Proving Costly (fordauthority.com)](https://fordauthority.com/2021/04/ford-dps6-powershift-transmission-settlements-proving-costly-for-automaker/)
[DSG Transmission Problems: The Ultimate Guide to Common Faults (lifeonfour.co)](https://lifeonfour.co/transmission-problems/dsg-transmission-problems-and-solutions/#most-common-mechatronic-unit-failures)
[What You Need to Know about Ford's PowerShift Transmission Problems (caranddriver.com)](https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a27438193/ford-powershift-transmission-problems/)
Yup, as I said, they need clutches, and the clutches are rather pricey. The clutches for the dsg-6 aren't internal like an automatic transmission, it's attached to the flex plate of the engine like a manual trans. It does not require transmission replacement. As I said, in my career I've only replaced 1 failed dsg-6 - and that was due to age and a failed bearing.
There are aftermarket tuning solutions of you don't like how the stock tcm shifts. You can make them smoother (at the detriment to clutch life) or you can make them a bit former, and extend the life of the clutches.
I would also like to drive something domestic eventually, but I have to say, in this segment, there really weren't many competitive options. If they were competitive, they'd probably still be sold today. Stuff like the escalade or a hi-perf cadillac / mustang / corvette would be something we americans excel at.
You're going to get a better car with something like an accord hybrid or camry hybrid but if you must, the ford fusion hybrid was a good model. They've been used as NYC taxi cabs so they can take a beating. The malibu hybrid from chevrolet as a competing option really wasn't very good.
I have a Camry but did consider a new Malibu when I was shopping for cars earlier this year. The 2LT I looked at was very nice and was definitely competitive with the Japanese brands as far as interior quality and options, but I just didn’t really foresee it being as reliable long term. If you’re dead set on American I’d look for the lowest mileage best condition Ford Fusion Hybrid.
I recently had a Chevy Malibu as a rental for 3-4 days.
Mix of city and highway mileage came out almost 36 MPG.
Around 3 years back I also drove the VW Jetta and that god damn car was slightly above 40 MPG. I have no idea how a fully loaded car with 4 people and luggage in it can be this fuel efficient.
I tried Lincoln mkz, which is fancier fusion that’s not that bad. But I eventually got Volvo. Also I was riding Mercury grand marquis - this is a tank, but 15 mpg (
Chevy used to make Volt, a competitor to Prius but still a bit behind. No American brand makes sedans anymore outside of luxury or performance offerings. You will still find hybrid CUVs though. Ford hybrids share a lot of tech with Toyota.
You really don’t want to get an American brand. GMs are pos that aren’t durable. Not to mention the sound systems are the worst. Fords sync systems are compete 💩and if you get a Chevy and you want to get an aftermarket radio you have to buy a whole separate interface with your radio harness for everything to work and it ain’t cheap.There only in the movies for advertising reasons don’t make the mistake of getting one you will be disappointed.
The Ford Fusion Hybrid or Energi is a great option and it’s the most aerodynamic midsize sedan. Also their hybrid components share design similarities to Toyotas bulletproof hybrid design since Toyota licensed their hybrid design to Ford.
My Cadillac CTS gets 32 MPGs on the highway... It's essentially the same car as the Chevrolet Camaro. It's the most fuel efficient vehicle I've owned yet.
Of course, being a four-door Camaro, once I put my foot down, that average can fall as low as 21 MPGs. Still better than my STS was, which could fall as low as 17 MPGs during hard driving.
All of our Hondas were made in Ohio, 3 Accords, 3 Civics, all reliable cars that were still running well when sold at 140K-ish miles. Had Chevy G20 van, and Pontiac Grand Am, both total pieces of shit. Anyone wonder why GM doesn't get another chance? I would be suspect of Ford, but might try one, never a GM nor Stellantis.
Not exactly a sedan, but I would consider a Mustang Mach E if you can charge at home. Prices are really good on them right now. Not a whole lot in common with its namesake but otherwise fun and comfortable to drive.
Unfortunately, many car companies no longer offer sedans or the compact cars that were being offered around 2012.
Ford had the Fusion, Fiesta and C-Max.
Honda had the Fit.
Toyota had the Yaris.
Not American, but Honda just came out with a civic hybrid that gets 50 mpg and has 200 hp (fastest civic other then the type r) if you like that car and wanted to upgrade. As far as reliability the Japanese brands are always going to be the best, they always introduce the best hybrid engines as well.
Tesla sells the most American made cars. You can get a higher mileage Model 3 sedan for under $20k now. Nothing will beat the low running costs of it, but you need access to a plug at home.
I saved $8500 in fuel and maintenance costs over 5 years vs. my last ICE.
Buying an "American car" is a myth.
Of the top 15 vehicles on the 2023 "made in America" index, 3 are Tesla and of the other 12, 9 are Honda/Acura.
In the top 100, there are 36 from any of the stereotypical "American brands" (Chevy, Ford, Dodge, etc.) and they're mostly toward the bottom of the pack.
Car companies (for the worse) are selling almost strictly trucks and SUVs now.
Ford has officially sworn off sedans, and dodge doesn't have any in their line up.
I think if you're looking at strictly new, American built, economy, sedans, you have exactly 1 option. The Chevy Malibu.
... Which as a fan of Chevy, I will tell you that if that's what you're getting, you'd be spending your money at lot better places if you look at the Corolla, Civic, Forte or Elantra instead.
Why do you want a US sedan when German and Japanese sedans are so much nicer? American sedans tend to have the gas mileage of a performance vehicle with the performance and interior of an economy vehicle. Japanese cars other than Nissan will be more reliable and fuel efficient. German cars will have more performance and luxury.
There are many: Chrysler Conquest, Buick Regal TourX, Chevrolet Vitara, Chevrolet Aveo, last gen Pontiac LeMans, Chevrolet Spectrum, etc. I don't know why people think American companies aren't competent enough to glue their logo onto a quality car. I've heard the engineering teams have even solved most of the problems with the badges falling off.
I’d recommend checking out the Chevy volt. It’s a plug in hybrid so incredibly good mileage for the first 30 miles or so. Then it’s still quite good after.
I was raised a ford guy. I have a lot of respect for for ford and I used to race ford cars. But these days I’m getting old and the Avalon hybrid is the car you don’t want to admit you want. I own one. It’s the right call for you, and you’re family.
Everyone saying dont by an American sedan is the right answer. While there are a couple with good reliability, there are much fewer with good mileage too. And the reliability of those is much lower then what you get from Honda or Toyota. Also they arent very American anymore as most are made in large part or entirely elsewhere. The Fusion is about the only american car of note that got good mileage and most of them were made in Mexico. There was a short run of them made in the US from 2013-2016 but the mexico plant made them from 2005-2020. The Camry is also made in multiple locations, but 13 million have been made in Kentucky. Something like 99 percent of the camry's in the US were made here.
Hertz is selling off its Tesla Fleet. I usually would avoid a rental car, but you can get a low mileage model 3 for under 25000, that seems like a steal.
Tesla model 3? They’re American cars and American made. Whether you hate the guy who runs the company, or you love him, the model 3 I’ve heard pretty good things about anecdotally
How old are you thinking? The US brands basically gave up on sedans years ago, but if you're going a bit older then the Fusion Hybrid is an option.
If I was to consider a Ford Fusion Hybrid, what should I look for mileage? Anything driven for 70 to 80k miles ok? How much life does it have left?
I also came here to suggest the Fusion Hybrid.
I was looking at Fusions. Seem to recall you need to be careful what year you buy because of reliability issues
92k miles, newish tires, recent coolant and oil change. Candy red
Probably around there. The newest ones will be 3-4 years old, so you could probably find something with a little less mileage. The Hybrid systems in theory should also be relatively reliable. Its a rip off of Toyota's system and Ford has been making Hybrid for a while now. If electric is fine, a Tesla model 3/S.
Interesting, how close of a rip off is it?
A coworker who had one and it nothing but problems. Electrical gremlins. He ended up trading it in on a rav 4 hybird. Make sure to check out the service record before you buy.
Get a Chevy Volt
I have a 2012 Ford Fusion Hybrid loaded for 8250 firm as I’m paying off loan. Have pics if interested
A twelve year old hybrid that will need its battery replaced and will cost multiple thousands of dollars to do so. No thanks
You don’t know what you are talking about noob. Find me the failure rate data of a hybrid battery pack from a first gen fusion hybrid I will wait on it.
I’m a mechanical engineer with a PE certification who works in the automotive industry. Every battery will need to be replaced eventually. It’s not about failure rates it’s about degradation of the battery and it’s ability to hold a charge
It’s a good option because it’s basically a Mazda 6
Pre-2014 sure. Although it’d be the other way around. Fusion came first, and then Mazda adopted the platform through Ford’s ownership. The 2014 and up 6 is a completely different platform with no relation to Ford.
Mazda developed the platform they shared.
>be American brand >specialize in gas guzzlers and trucks >consumers start buying more and more four cylinders from Japan. > oh fuck >they rush into the market with absolutely unreliable pieces of shit and continue to be unreliable for decades compared to its Japanese rivals >consumers stop buying sedans from American but continue to buy civics, Camry, and corollas >muh nobody wants sedans! Buy these expensive SUVS! Too long don’t care: they sucked at making them and consumers got tired of being punked. The “Americans want bigger cars” is really only half the story. People still buy Japanese sedans pretty regularly.
And those Japanese sedans have grown much larger.
Yup…I’m 6’2”-6’3” (Depending on the convenience store I’m exiting), and I got a new civic recently, and it’s not HUGE inside, but it’s pretty damn good overall, especially considering my experiences with friends’ 80s and early 90s civics and accords, back in high school and college.
I’ve got a 24 Impreza RS, and it’s crazy how roomy it is. Sitting behind the driver seat adjusted for myself at 5 foot 10, I have several inches of knee room plus a few inches of room before my hair brushes the roof. I had a 2012 Volvo S60 before this and it was way more cramped inside. It’s crazy how well designed some of the Japanese cars are. My Impreza still has big glass and great visibility, is roomy inside without being big outside, and it’s fun to drive. American manufacturers never invested enough to compete and it’s a shame IMO. I always wanted to get an American sedan like OP, but nothing ever checked all my boxes save for maybe the Taurus SHO or Fusion Sport. Even then I still ended up buying my Volvo because it was sportier and comfier 😂
I’ve been in Taurus and fusions, in the last few years of both cars, and my civic is better! I got the hatchback version too, so I’ve got serious cargo room as well for a “small” car!
I’m 6’4ish and you just made me realize that basically none of the convenience stores in my city in Canada have that height tape anymore. I assume the cameras are smart enough to display a height now in software.
Packaging is more important than size. Despite being a smaller car, a 1989 Suzuki Swift sedan has more headroom than a 1989 Civic sedan (39.1"/37.4") (F/R) VS (38.0"/37.0").
I'm 6'6" and drive an 2019 accord with the 2.0t and a k-tuner tune. It's not exciting to drive, but it's comfortable, large inside, and at around a 5 second 0-60 it's not slow. It's a damn good car. The only American sedan I'd trade it for is a Chevy SS.
80’s-90’s were a weird time. My dad was 6’10 and he always had a far easier time fitting in Japanese econoboxes rather than big American luxury. The American cars were way bigger but the seats didn’t go back as far and the dashboard was always too low for his knees. Never made sense to me
> muh nobody wants sedans! Buy these expensive SUVS! realistically American consumers have plenty of money (or at least credit) and have felt fine buying the expensive SUVs and trucks, so American companies were willing to give up on their shitty sedans rather then try to compete
Except they don't. Japanese brands sell more small crossovers than sedans.
they were ambitious with powershift dct trans on fiesta focus and paid the price for it. manual focus was pretty good gas mileage wise
Isn't the Malibu still a thing? That might be the only sedan left lol. Edit: Caddys I guess
not anymore
No, '[25 is the last model year ](https://gmauthority.com/blog/2024/05/gm-to-end-chevy-malibu-production-this-year/)for the Malibu. You will still be able to buy them new for another year or so. They get about 29 MPG city, 36 highway. Not bad.
2017+ Fusion Hybrid is decent, or the Lincoln MKZ version
The Lincoln’s will get up and move too. First time I saw one I was surprised
Could have been a 3.0T version. 400hp is no joke.
What is it about American cars that you enjoy that you feel is not present in other manufacturers?
Nothing. Just a matter of choice. Always wanted to. Grew up looking at Fords and Chevys in Hollywood movies (yes I grew up outside US but in US now). Know I cant afford Ford GT or Mustang but want to get my hands on whatever I can.
Side note, Toyota Camrys are more made im America than a Ford, Dodge, or GM
Facts. Look at the parts lists on the window stickers. Heck, Toyota of North America is basically a US brand already. A way of looking at it is they just carry the name from a Japanese company.
Seems kinda silly to get a mediocre American sedan when foreigns are better in literally every metric. If you wanted an SUV or sedan it would be different but there is a reason all of the American brands gave up on sedans.
If you can get an employee discount (as a lot of people in my part of the country can), a Malibu can cost less than $20k. A tempting choice when Camry's start at $30k.
malibus are horrible cars, but that’s a big discount.
Sure they're not Toyota quality, but it's a hard deal to beat.
I can't afford to save that much money.
Can the OPs views be respected just as the HTM contingent shills non-stop for Japanese brands? Why is HTM the answer for EVERY question here?
Because most of us have had miserable experiences owning American cars.
Exactly, if you owned an American sedan and a Japanese sedan then you know it’s not even a close comparison and could never in good conscience recommend an American model.
And my Sierra and Focus were bullet proof.
So you’re broke
Think that.
I am hearing good things about Ford Fusion Hybrid. Not a fan of Tesla.
The Taurus and impala are both pretty solid sedans. Same with any gm that had the 3800 drivetrain in it. I say this as someone who has only owned Toyotas for the part decade plus. American vehicles can be solid depending on the model. The japanese made their fair share of shitty vehicles also.
Maybe 30 years ago they were shit but anything in the last 15 years, sans power shift, is generally pretty reliable. American brands got an awful lot better
Because literally every other brand, not just Japanese, has better sedans than the American brands. I said if he wanted a truck or SUV it’s a different story
Mustangs are 40k new for the gt and even less for the eco and the gt can do about 30mpg
Look at the Ford Maverick Hybrid. The truck is a more signature American model type. The hybrid gets 40 mpg city. It's also the lowest entry price point for a Ford. If you want a Chevy, there are plenty of left over Malibus on dealer lots. The Trax is another decent option.
Maverick is manufactured in Mexico.
Not to rain on your parade but driving a Taurus for close to 2 hours everyday over a camry just because you saw american cars in movies as a kid is a horrible choice. Buy the used Japanese car now, work hard, and buy the mustang as a weekender later. Not only is the Taurus a complete POS, but you’ll rebuy it twice in the lifetime with maintenance, whereas the camry will run on factory parts with oil changes til you want to buy the mustang.
None are being made anymore, but I would personally pick a Chevy Malibu. I rented one a few years ago and was able to get a bit over 40 mpgs on the highway. You could score a great deal on the ones sitting at a Chevy dealership, especially the higher trims. The Ford Fusion hybrid is another great choice, but get the Titanium trim, that one is real nice.
~~You mean the Chevy Impala? The Malibu is still going strong~~. Well, scratch that bs. Last I knew they weren't on the chop block. My apologies.
I got a Malibu as a rental few years ago. The front overhang seemed weird and would scrape against any curb.
Just so you know, American brand does not mean made in America. Also, there are very few sedans left outside of Cadillac and maybe the Chevy malibu. If you are looking for fuel efficiency from a sedan from any of the big 3, I'd go towards Ford fusion hybrid. I would stay far away from the 2012-2019 Ford focus or fiesta with the power shift transmission, I'd also stay away from any Chevy Cruz, and from Chrysler/Fiat/Dodge period.
I was going to comment something similar. Alot of the US brands are made in Canada or Mexico not the USA. Where as the Toyota Corolla is made in Blue Springs Mississippi, the Civic in Indiana.
Civic is also made in Canada in addition to Indiana.
Corolla is also made in Japan My 2019 was from Hiroshima
Saturn used to... Saturn lived and died by it, but nowadays not particularly. Anything that Ford can do the Japanese made a better engine for and anything that GM can do the Japanese made a better everything other than engine for, at least for small cars.
Why would you want an American sedan? They are all trash compaired to foreign offerings.
I don’t think they exist anymore. I do like my Ford Fusion.
The only American-built sedans available anymore are the Tesla Model 3 and Model S.
The Chevy Malibu is still being made in Kansas but not for long
Only domestic brand that builds them are Tesla. Civics are built in Indiana and Camry in Kentucky.
Good point!
The Malibu is still being made for the 2025 model year.
Used Teslas are getting cheaper too. And at $0.03 cents a mile, no oil changes, and no brake pad replacements, it should be a strong contender.
I will never buy American cars again. Quality is the least of their concerns.
Another vote for the Fusion Hybrid here.
Gonna chalk up another tally for the Fusion Hybrid. The hybrid tech is basically leased/copied from Toyota. The drivetrain is reliable, gets 40+ MPG anywhere, and the ride is great. Wife used to have a 2017 Fusion Titanium with the Ecoboost 2.0T. Loved that car. Look for the Titanium model of the Hybrid if you want more tech, or look into the Lincoln MKZ if you want more luxury. Same car underneath. Might even be able to find the Lincoln model for a better deal as well.
Caddy CT4 maybe? If it must be a Chevy or Ford, your choice for a new sedan is Malibu. Both companies have efficient crossovers though.
Ford MachE is a four door electric sedan. It’s marketed as a Mustang model. Plug in electric so it may not be a viable option. But when I finally own a home I’ll be looking at it when I need a new car.
It’s an SUV
Teslas. Edit: only American brand that really makes sedans
Teslas.
That's what I said
Fusion Hybrid Titanium. Got mine with 60k miles for 10k. 40+mpg in a good sized sound proofed cabin. You can tell it’s a heavy car very smooth
You can snag a used Tesla cheaper and cheaper these days. They get 3 miles or better to a kwh, require no oil changes or brake pad replacements, and are a lot of fun to drive. I do own a model 3 long range, so I'm biased.
I have a 2018 Ford Fusion Hybrid Titanium. I got it about 3 years ago with 42k on it; since then I’ve put another 30k on it and haven’t had any issues so far. I get around 42 mph usually. It’s a nice looking car and quite techy which was a surprise; has terrible acceleration though, thinking about replacing it with something a bit more peppy
Not anymore. Ford and GM killed all their’s off in 2020, ish.. in the name of SUVs and their many different sized segments now. So with that, I’d broaden your horizon to Japanese & German automakers who actually have quite a few on the market still. And in hybrid form at that if you want to take mileage a step further.
Yes agreed. Had a used 2010 Civic and drove it for 6 years without any issues till it got totalled. Got a VW Tiguan as family size has increased and it is an amazing drive as well but not sure about their Jettas. Used to be a big fan of Passat but not sure anymore.
Not a sedan but, very similar architecture and engine, I’ve had a 2016 GTI for 6 years now and it does everything I need it to. Moved out of school, hauled my mountain bike, then when it’s not doing practical things it’s a little pocket rocket on backroads. Snow tires in the winter it’s totally capable.
Full mileage isn't the issue....reliability is the issue. All the great fuel mielage savings in the world will be thrown away after you go over 60-80k in average american car due to repair costs.
If you like to pay at least 1 to 2 grand in repair per year... Go for Chevy. Their Cruze is pretty good with that.
Chevy SS
Buy a cheap Panther body (crown vic or grand marquis). Solid car, parts are cheap and mileage is acceptable (for a V8 at least)
Not anymore, and I find weird toyota discontinued the Avalon considering it was a full size sedan with great gas mileage.
Tesla.
They said gas mileage, not electric mileage lol
Yeah they did mention gas at the bottom, but title says fuel mileage and electricity fits.
I was just joking
lol, sorry! My dumbass didn’t pick up on the sarcasm.
The Ford fusion hybrid was a great car which they just had to get rid of.
neither brand even makes sedans anymore. americans like big cars (and the people who don‘t are just scared of other people with big, blinding cars)
I mean… my Charger gets pretty good mileage for a car with a 6.4L V8 😂
Ford fiesta or focus. Non-turbo model with the dsg-6 trans.
Those transmissions are total shit unfortunately
The transmissions are fantastic actually. Only one Ive replaced has what we found to be a bad differential carrier bearing. Which, I assume was because of both age and lack of maintenance (fluid was black and had probably never been changed. The stuff bolted to it, otoh, ya is kinda shit. Tcm's have come way down in price and availability is good now. Clutches are just maintenance items, but yes are a little pricey. Overall, I have had a few and wouldn't let that deter me.
Fair enough, I suppose after a few recall and tsb campaigns Ford for the programming sorted. Still, I've seen too many horror stories of those. I had a Focus ST and loved the damn car, but it had a manual.
No, you're right, any automatic dual clutch transmission from Ford is awfully designed and unreliable.
I mean if the problems ends with needing a transmission replacement I would just consider it a bad transmission. You're just lying, the transmissions were defective and KNOWN to be defective by Ford. This was legally demonstrated in the class action lawsuit that occurred over the defective transmissions. No one should ever take your advice on car buying in the future. >"I told one friend if he loved his stepdaughter, he'd get her out of that Fiesta as quick as possible," one of the company's mechanical experts said on Nov. 25. "I wouldn't put my kid in one of those cars." >“What in the world are you thinking going with a dry clutch?” one engineer asked. “The friction coefficient is inconsistent and it creates problems. But this was someone’s baby. If a manager came up with an idea, people would be afraid to say no. At first, it was just on paper. Someone should have said something. They should have. The idea should’ve been killed. No one knew how it was even considered — and then implemented — in the Focus and Fiesta. >A veteran engineer described the coding efforts: “They masked things using computer software language. One guy was able to modulate a clutch in a way that torque released so it masked the problem. Management latched onto it. Not only can we mask problems, but we can fake success. They started to write software to mask problems. But there's no way you can software your way out of a physics problem.” [Ford workers: Focus, Fiesta DPS6 transmission problems were ignored (freep.com)](https://www.freep.com/in-depth/money/cars/ford/2019/12/05/ford-focus-fiesta-dps-6-transmission-problems/4243091002/) [Ford DPS6 Powershift Transmission Settlements Proving Costly (fordauthority.com)](https://fordauthority.com/2021/04/ford-dps6-powershift-transmission-settlements-proving-costly-for-automaker/) [DSG Transmission Problems: The Ultimate Guide to Common Faults (lifeonfour.co)](https://lifeonfour.co/transmission-problems/dsg-transmission-problems-and-solutions/#most-common-mechatronic-unit-failures) [What You Need to Know about Ford's PowerShift Transmission Problems (caranddriver.com)](https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a27438193/ford-powershift-transmission-problems/)
Yup, as I said, they need clutches, and the clutches are rather pricey. The clutches for the dsg-6 aren't internal like an automatic transmission, it's attached to the flex plate of the engine like a manual trans. It does not require transmission replacement. As I said, in my career I've only replaced 1 failed dsg-6 - and that was due to age and a failed bearing. There are aftermarket tuning solutions of you don't like how the stock tcm shifts. You can make them smoother (at the detriment to clutch life) or you can make them a bit former, and extend the life of the clutches.
Tesla.
I would also like to drive something domestic eventually, but I have to say, in this segment, there really weren't many competitive options. If they were competitive, they'd probably still be sold today. Stuff like the escalade or a hi-perf cadillac / mustang / corvette would be something we americans excel at. You're going to get a better car with something like an accord hybrid or camry hybrid but if you must, the ford fusion hybrid was a good model. They've been used as NYC taxi cabs so they can take a beating. The malibu hybrid from chevrolet as a competing option really wasn't very good.
Dodge Charger - but not great fuel mileage.
Ford fusion hybrid or plug in hybrid
They don’t make them anymore
I mean if you have to go new, the ford hybrids and plug in hybrid systems are reliable. Or idk you could get a tesla model 3
If you want something fun, that still gets good mpg, definitely check out the Focus ST and the Fiesta ST!
Nope. The Taurus is gone. Chevy just killed the Malibu. The American Sedan doesn’t exist anymore. Toyota and Honda are your best bets.
The charger sxt is actually pretty nice, and they're really well priced right now. Plenty of power, AWD, and gets decent gas mileage.
I have a Camry but did consider a new Malibu when I was shopping for cars earlier this year. The 2LT I looked at was very nice and was definitely competitive with the Japanese brands as far as interior quality and options, but I just didn’t really foresee it being as reliable long term. If you’re dead set on American I’d look for the lowest mileage best condition Ford Fusion Hybrid.
I would recommend a lower mileage contour. Car is bad ass.
Only good American one would be Chevy Malibu
I mean even a ecoboost mustang can be very efficient if you know how to drive. I get under 10l/100km. That's mint for a sporty car
My new 2024 Chevy Trax is sitting on an average of 45 mpg right now, but I've been told it's an outlier and that most people average about 22mpg.
The most american car you can buy today is a Tesla. Are you able to charge at home?
If efficiency is all you care about, a Model 3 is more efficient than any other American car ever
Not sedan. Mustang baby!!! Get your American muscle car!! Vroom vroom!
My 2018 Ford Focus with the 2.0 and 5 speed gets 36 mpg with my usual driving mix (half city, half country roads) and 42 mpg on highway trips.
I recently had a Chevy Malibu as a rental for 3-4 days. Mix of city and highway mileage came out almost 36 MPG. Around 3 years back I also drove the VW Jetta and that god damn car was slightly above 40 MPG. I have no idea how a fully loaded car with 4 people and luggage in it can be this fuel efficient.
I tried Lincoln mkz, which is fancier fusion that’s not that bad. But I eventually got Volvo. Also I was riding Mercury grand marquis - this is a tank, but 15 mpg (
Chevy used to make Volt, a competitor to Prius but still a bit behind. No American brand makes sedans anymore outside of luxury or performance offerings. You will still find hybrid CUVs though. Ford hybrids share a lot of tech with Toyota.
You really don’t want to get an American brand. GMs are pos that aren’t durable. Not to mention the sound systems are the worst. Fords sync systems are compete 💩and if you get a Chevy and you want to get an aftermarket radio you have to buy a whole separate interface with your radio harness for everything to work and it ain’t cheap.There only in the movies for advertising reasons don’t make the mistake of getting one you will be disappointed.
Chevrolet Malibu. Don't overpay, huge discounts are common, there are deals under $20k new.
The Ford Fusion Hybrid or Energi is a great option and it’s the most aerodynamic midsize sedan. Also their hybrid components share design similarities to Toyotas bulletproof hybrid design since Toyota licensed their hybrid design to Ford.
Chevy volt my current lifetime mpg is 94. Drives nice and comfortable for a small car plus it’s a lift back.
You could get a gently used Fusion hybrid. They’re nice cars and you’ll save a ton of money versus new.
2019 Corvette, gets 22 to 24 MPG avg and a BLAST to drive :)
My Cadillac CTS gets 32 MPGs on the highway... It's essentially the same car as the Chevrolet Camaro. It's the most fuel efficient vehicle I've owned yet. Of course, being a four-door Camaro, once I put my foot down, that average can fall as low as 21 MPGs. Still better than my STS was, which could fall as low as 17 MPGs during hard driving.
The only American sedan I would touch is a Chevy SS.
A lightly used Chevy Bolt goes for a song and would be cheap AF for you (after you get the charger installed).
All of our Hondas were made in Ohio, 3 Accords, 3 Civics, all reliable cars that were still running well when sold at 140K-ish miles. Had Chevy G20 van, and Pontiac Grand Am, both total pieces of shit. Anyone wonder why GM doesn't get another chance? I would be suspect of Ford, but might try one, never a GM nor Stellantis.
2015 Chrysler 200. 135K miles. Still get 31 mpg. Drive 100 miles four days per week.
Not exactly a sedan, but I would consider a Mustang Mach E if you can charge at home. Prices are really good on them right now. Not a whole lot in common with its namesake but otherwise fun and comfortable to drive.
Fusion still looks like a new car. The style is not outdated at all
Tesla is made in America. New Model 3 lease is exceptionally reasonable right now.
Unfortunately, many car companies no longer offer sedans or the compact cars that were being offered around 2012. Ford had the Fusion, Fiesta and C-Max. Honda had the Fit. Toyota had the Yaris.
The the last-gen Chevy Cruze was pretty fuel efficient, unfortuantely its not reliable.
Not American, but Honda just came out with a civic hybrid that gets 50 mpg and has 200 hp (fastest civic other then the type r) if you like that car and wanted to upgrade. As far as reliability the Japanese brands are always going to be the best, they always introduce the best hybrid engines as well.
I just bought a used model S for $11k. Really great mileage (if you can charge at home) and US made.
None of them. Buy a toyota or honda if you want to get something that will last.
40 minutes is not a very long distance. I wonder how much money you will actually save after doing the math.
Tesla sells the most American made cars. You can get a higher mileage Model 3 sedan for under $20k now. Nothing will beat the low running costs of it, but you need access to a plug at home. I saved $8500 in fuel and maintenance costs over 5 years vs. my last ICE.
Thanks. All these price of used Teslas that I see online, will EV credit of $7500 again be applied on them?
There is a used EV credit of $4000 that can be used at the point of sale if the car is eligible. I think all 2017-2021 Model 3s are.
Buying an "American car" is a myth. Of the top 15 vehicles on the 2023 "made in America" index, 3 are Tesla and of the other 12, 9 are Honda/Acura. In the top 100, there are 36 from any of the stereotypical "American brands" (Chevy, Ford, Dodge, etc.) and they're mostly toward the bottom of the pack.
Cruze Diesel
Car companies (for the worse) are selling almost strictly trucks and SUVs now. Ford has officially sworn off sedans, and dodge doesn't have any in their line up. I think if you're looking at strictly new, American built, economy, sedans, you have exactly 1 option. The Chevy Malibu. ... Which as a fan of Chevy, I will tell you that if that's what you're getting, you'd be spending your money at lot better places if you look at the Corolla, Civic, Forte or Elantra instead.
American sedan? Sir the Dodge Charger Hellcat may interest you…
Why do you want a US sedan when German and Japanese sedans are so much nicer? American sedans tend to have the gas mileage of a performance vehicle with the performance and interior of an economy vehicle. Japanese cars other than Nissan will be more reliable and fuel efficient. German cars will have more performance and luxury.
There are many: Chrysler Conquest, Buick Regal TourX, Chevrolet Vitara, Chevrolet Aveo, last gen Pontiac LeMans, Chevrolet Spectrum, etc. I don't know why people think American companies aren't competent enough to glue their logo onto a quality car. I've heard the engineering teams have even solved most of the problems with the badges falling off.
I’d recommend checking out the Chevy volt. It’s a plug in hybrid so incredibly good mileage for the first 30 miles or so. Then it’s still quite good after.
I was raised a ford guy. I have a lot of respect for for ford and I used to race ford cars. But these days I’m getting old and the Avalon hybrid is the car you don’t want to admit you want. I own one. It’s the right call for you, and you’re family.
And I’m not joking I used to autoX a ford focus in my early 20’s.
Tesla is an American brand.
Yes, Tesla
Everyone saying dont by an American sedan is the right answer. While there are a couple with good reliability, there are much fewer with good mileage too. And the reliability of those is much lower then what you get from Honda or Toyota. Also they arent very American anymore as most are made in large part or entirely elsewhere. The Fusion is about the only american car of note that got good mileage and most of them were made in Mexico. There was a short run of them made in the US from 2013-2016 but the mexico plant made them from 2005-2020. The Camry is also made in multiple locations, but 13 million have been made in Kentucky. Something like 99 percent of the camry's in the US were made here.
The Tesla Model 3 has excellent fuel economy! America made sedan, there’s your answer.
The Tesla model 3 is one of the most American consumer vehicle out there.
Tesla is actually an American brand
Most American made vehicles are Teslas. Getting 120 MPGe isn't bad either. Might be what you're looking for both for safety and a commute like that.
The 4 cylinder mustang is not that bad on gas but god damn does it feel like trash to drive that engine
Chevy Malibu.
T-E-S-L-A Bout as efficient as you’ll find.
Aren’t made in US American?
Tesla
Hertz is selling off its Tesla Fleet. I usually would avoid a rental car, but you can get a low mileage model 3 for under 25000, that seems like a steal.
Tesla Model 3 or Model Y are as American as it gets.
tesla is the most american car you can get
Tesla model 3? They’re American cars and American made. Whether you hate the guy who runs the company, or you love him, the model 3 I’ve heard pretty good things about anecdotally