With new cars costing more than $50,000 on average and gas prices at more than $4 a gallon, sedans are making a bit of a comeback.
The average price of a mid-size sedan in August 2026 was $33,909, compared with $50,315 for a mid-size SUV, according to Cox Automotive. That is a difference of about $16,400 before taxes, fees and other ownership costs.
Among non-luxury car shoppers, 25% considered sedans in the first half of 2026, according to Cox. Among luxury-brand buyers, the number was even higher, at 37%.
The findings come as many automakers have moved to eliminate their cheapest compact cars as shoppers flocked to larger SUVs and pickup trucks over the past decade. Detroit’s automakers have largely abandoned sedans altogether. Since 2024, none of the America’s largest automakers have offered new sedans for sale.
Erin Keating, an executive analyst with Cox Automotive, said it is reasonable that car shoppers are reacting to record-high new-car prices by searching for smaller, more affordable models. “New-vehicle price inflation is real, but automotive price increases have been moderate in recent years and remain below the long-term average of roughly 3%,” she said. “At the same time, many American households are under significant financial pressure, which is steering more shoppers toward lower price points. The continued strong growth of subcompact SUVs highlights how important affordability remains in today’s market.”
Five Sedan Deals to Consider
The USA TODAY Cars team compiled information on five sedan offers currently available to consumers. Check the terms and eligibility requirements with the automaker or dealer before making a purchase.
1. 2026 Hyundai Sonata
Base price: $27,450
Deal: Hyundai is offering $2,500 in bonus cash on gas versions of the Sonata through Sept. 30.
What reviewers said: Charles Singh of the USA TODAY Cars team said in a review of the 2025 Sonata that the vehicle “has several attractive qualities, but the fact is, this midsize sedan is designed for drivers who appreciate excellent fuel efficiency.”
2. 2026 Volkswagen Jetta
Base price: $23,995
Deal: Volkswagen is offering $2,000 in bonus cash on 2026 Jettas through Nov. 2.
What reviewers said: MotorTrend said in a review of the 2024 Jetta that its “conservative exterior styling and its ‘bargain Audi’ cabin make it a nice below-the-radar but still relatively luxurious option.”
3. 2026 Mazda3
Base price: $24,650
Deal: Mazda is offering $1,500 in bonus cash on the 2026 Mazda3 sedan and hatchback through Sept. 30.
What reviewers said: A USA TODAY review described the 2026 Mazda3 as offering a smooth, comfortable ride, excellent gas mileage, confident handling and enough acceleration for daily driving.
4. 2026 Kia K5
Base price: $27,690
Deal: Kia is offering 1.9% APR on the 2026 Kia K5 through Sept. 30.
What reviewers said: Charles Singh described the K5 as an affordable midsize sedan with enough space for small families and a well-balanced design.
5. 2026 Subaru WRX
Base price: $32,495
Deal: Subaru is offering 1.9% APR for 48 months on the WRX Limited through Sept. 30.
What reviewers said: Car and Driver said the WRX is one of two performance models remaining in Subaru’s lineup and the only one that offers the brand’s signature all-wheel drive.
Offers and availability can change. Confirm the current terms, qualifying requirements and final price with the automaker or dealer.
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