Carly Gregg’s Top 2023 Sedans: Expert Picks for Discerning Drivers

Carly Gregg, renowned automotive journalist and sedan specialist, has curated an exceptional collection of 2023 sedan recommendations that balance performance, luxury, reliability, and value. Her selections represent the pinnacle of mid-year automotive engineering, offering buyers a comprehensive guide through an increasingly competitive sedan market. Whether you’re seeking cutting-edge technology, refined handling dynamics, or exceptional fuel efficiency, Gregg’s expertise illuminates the standout models that defined the 2023 sedan landscape.

The 2023 model year witnessed significant advancements in sedan design philosophy, with manufacturers prioritizing driver engagement alongside passenger comfort. Gregg’s picks reflect vehicles that excel across multiple dimensions—combining turbocharged efficiency with responsive steering, premium interiors with practical usability, and advanced safety systems with intuitive infotainment platforms. This comprehensive guide explores her top selections and explains why each vehicle earned recognition in an increasingly crowded marketplace.

BMW 340i: Performance and Precision

The BMW 340i represents Carly Gregg’s top pick for drivers prioritizing performance without sacrificing daily practicality. This turbocharged four-cylinder delivers 382 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, translating to exhilarating acceleration that rivals larger-displacement competitors. The refined 3.0-liter engine achieves an impressive 0-60 mph sprint in approximately 4.8 seconds, while maintaining respectable fuel economy figures that hover around 25 mpg combined.

What distinguishes the 340i in Gregg’s evaluation is its communicative steering response and athletic chassis tuning. The adaptive suspension adapts to road conditions in real-time, providing confidence-inspiring cornering grip while preserving ride comfort during highway cruising. The eight-speed automatic transmission shifts seamlessly, offering both automatic convenience and manual control via steering wheel paddles for engaged drivers seeking driving dynamics guidance.

Interior quality elevates the 340i beyond typical sport sedan standards. Premium leather upholstery, ambient lighting customization, and a digital instrument cluster create an atmosphere of understated luxury. The infotainment system responds intuitively, with Apple CarPlay integration and voice-activated controls reducing driver distraction. Safety systems include forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance—essential features that Gregg emphasizes for modern sedan ownership.

Honda Accord: The Practical Benchmark

Honda’s Accord earned Gregg’s recognition as the segment’s most balanced all-rounder, combining reliability with contemporary design language and practical functionality. The 2023 Accord offers buyers two engine choices: a turbocharged 1.5-liter producing 192 horsepower or a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter generating 252 horsepower. Both powerplants deliver smooth power delivery with excellent fuel economy credentials, achieving EPA estimates between 26-33 mpg depending on configuration.

The Accord’s spacious interior accommodates five passengers comfortably, with rear legroom exceeding competitor offerings in the mainstream sedan category. The trunk capacity of 16.7 cubic feet provides practical cargo versatility for daily driving scenarios. Gregg particularly praised the intuitive cabin layout, where frequently accessed controls remain within easy reach, reducing the learning curve for new owners unfamiliar with the vehicle’s systems.

Honda’s reliability reputation reinforces the Accord’s value proposition. The brand’s legendary durability means lower maintenance costs and extended ownership satisfaction. The Accord’s transmission options—continuously variable automatic or traditional eight-speed automatic—both demonstrate smooth operation and responsiveness. When considering car maintenance fundamentals, the Accord’s straightforward design philosophy simplifies ownership responsibilities.

Safety features meet or exceed industry standards, with Honda Sensing providing adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and collision mitigation braking. The modern design language incorporates LED lighting technology throughout, enhancing visibility while reducing energy consumption compared to traditional halogen systems.

Genesis G70: Luxury Redefined

Carly Gregg’s luxury sedan selection, the Genesis G70, represents Hyundai’s premium brand commitment to challenging established luxury marques. The G70 combines sophisticated styling with exceptional value, undercutting traditional luxury competitors while delivering comparable interior appointments and technological sophistication. Available engine options include a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder (252 hp) and a turbocharged 3.3-liter V6 (368 hp), both paired with smooth eight-speed automatic transmissions.

The G70’s design philosophy emphasizes elegance through simplicity. The interior features high-quality materials including leather upholstery, metal trim accents, and a minimalist dashboard layout that exudes sophistication. Gregg highlighted the 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which responds intuitively to inputs and integrates smartphone connectivity seamlessly. The available panoramic sunroof extends the cabin’s sense of spaciousness, while ambient lighting customization allows personalization matching individual preferences.

What separates the G70 in Gregg’s evaluation is Genesis’s comprehensive warranty coverage—five years or 60,000 miles of complimentary maintenance and roadside assistance. This ownership advantage reduces long-term operating costs significantly compared to competitors. The G70’s handling characteristics balance comfort with engagement, providing responsive steering without sacrificing ride quality over imperfect pavement.

Safety technology includes forward-collision avoidance, lane-keeping assist, and driver attention monitoring. The adaptive suspension system adjusts damping characteristics in real-time, optimizing the driving experience across varying road conditions. Genesis’s commitment to customer service further enhances the ownership experience, with dedicated concierge support and convenient service scheduling.

Toyota Camry: Reliability Excellence

Toyota’s Camry maintains its position as America’s best-selling sedan, and Gregg’s inclusion reflects its undeniable strengths for practical-minded buyers. The 2023 Camry offers a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter four-cylinder producing 203 horsepower, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. A hybrid variant delivers exceptional fuel economy, achieving EPA estimates exceeding 50 mpg combined—an impressive figure that justifies the modest hybrid premium for high-mileage drivers.

The Camry’s interior prioritizes passenger comfort and usability. The spacious cabin accommodates five adults without compromise, while the 15.1-cubic-foot trunk provides practical cargo capacity. Toyota’s infotainment system has evolved significantly, now featuring a standard 8.0-inch touchscreen with smartphone integration and voice-activated controls. The available panoramic moonroof and premium audio system elevate the cabin ambiance for discerning buyers.

Gregg particularly emphasized the Camry’s legendary reliability credentials. Toyota’s manufacturing excellence and conservative engineering philosophy translate to vehicles that frequently exceed 200,000 miles with minimal major repairs. This durability advantage significantly impacts total cost of ownership, reducing unexpected maintenance expenses throughout the vehicle’s lifespan. When exploring engine oil change procedures, the Camry’s straightforward design simplifies routine maintenance tasks.

Safety systems include pre-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and dynamic radar cruise control. Toyota’s Safety Sense suite represents industry-leading collision avoidance technology, providing multiple layers of protection across various driving scenarios. The Camry’s stable platform delivers predictable handling characteristics, instilling confidence in both experienced and novice drivers.

Hyundai Sonata: Value Leadership

The Hyundai Sonata exemplifies Carly Gregg’s commitment to identifying value-oriented vehicles that don’t compromise on essential qualities. The 2023 Sonata offers a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder producing 180 horsepower, with an available 2.5-liter naturally aspirated engine generating 191 horsepower. Both powerplants pair with eight-speed automatic transmissions, delivering smooth acceleration and responsive performance characteristics.

What distinguishes the Sonata in Gregg’s evaluation is its aggressive pricing strategy. The Sonata delivers features and capability comparable to vehicles costing significantly more, making it an exceptional choice for budget-conscious buyers. The spacious interior accommodates five passengers comfortably, with a 16.3-cubic-foot trunk providing practical cargo versatility. The modern dashboard design incorporates an 8.0-inch touchscreen with smartphone integration and wireless charging capabilities.

Hyundai’s warranty program—five years or 60,000 miles of complimentary maintenance—significantly reduces ownership costs. The Sonata’s reliability ratings continue improving, with the brand demonstrating measurable quality enhancements across recent model years. The available hybrid powertrain delivers impressive fuel economy, achieving EPA estimates near 50 mpg combined for eco-conscious drivers.

Safety technology matches mainstream competitors, with forward-collision avoidance, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control available across trim levels. The Sonata’s handling characteristics strike an effective balance between comfort and engagement, providing responsive steering without sacrificing ride quality during extended highway driving.

Mazda6: Driving Dynamics

Carly Gregg’s selection of the Mazda6 reflects her appreciation for vehicles that prioritize driving engagement alongside practical functionality. The 2023 Mazda6 features a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter four-cylinder producing 187 horsepower, paired with a smooth six-speed automatic transmission. While power output trails some competitors, the Mazda6’s lightweight platform and responsive handling characteristics deliver engaging driving dynamics that appeal to enthusiast drivers.

The Mazda6’s steering response and chassis tuning represent the highlight of Gregg’s analysis. The electric power steering communicates road feedback effectively, allowing drivers to feel confident during spirited driving while remaining comfortable during routine commuting. The MacPherson strut front suspension and multi-link rear suspension deliver predictable handling characteristics across varying driving conditions. The available all-wheel drive system enhances traction in challenging weather scenarios.

Interior quality surpasses typical mainstream sedan standards. The dashboard features soft-touch materials, metal accents, and an intuitive layout that reduces driver distraction. The 8.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system responds quickly to inputs, with smartphone integration and voice-activated controls. The available Bose premium audio system delivers impressive sound quality, enhancing the driving experience during extended journeys.

Mazda’s i-ACTIVSENSE safety technology suite includes forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance. The Mazda6’s fuel economy figures remain competitive, with EPA estimates around 25 mpg combined for the standard all-wheel-drive configuration. When considering vehicle ownership, the Mazda6 offers exceptional value for drivers prioritizing engagement over raw power.

Mercedes-Benz C-Class: German Engineering

The Mercedes-Benz C-Class represents Carly Gregg’s luxury pinnacle selection, embodying German engineering excellence and refined performance characteristics. The 2023 C-Class features a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder producing 255 horsepower, paired with a smooth nine-speed automatic transmission. The responsive powertrain delivers 0-60 mph acceleration in approximately 5.7 seconds, while maintaining respectable fuel economy around 25 mpg combined.

What distinguishes the C-Class in Gregg’s evaluation is its uncompromising commitment to luxury and technological sophistication. The interior features premium leather upholstery, real wood trim accents, and a modern dashboard design centered on the intuitive MBUX infotainment system. The 11.9-inch touchscreen responds instantly to inputs, with voice-activated controls and smartphone integration simplifying navigation and media management. The available augmented reality navigation system overlays directional guidance on the windshield, enhancing situational awareness during complex driving scenarios.

Mercedes-Benz’s performance dynamics deliver confident handling characteristics, with adaptive suspension tuning adjusting stiffness in real-time. The electric power steering provides excellent feedback while maintaining composure during highway cruising. The available 4MATIC all-wheel drive system enhances traction in challenging weather, with intelligent torque distribution optimizing grip across varying surface conditions.

Safety systems include forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality. The C-Class’s premium positioning justifies the significant investment for buyers prioritizing luxury and technological advancement. Brake maintenance considerations apply across all premium vehicles, with Mercedes-Benz’s engineering philosophy emphasizing durability and longevity.

Maintenance and Ownership Considerations

Carly Gregg’s comprehensive sedan evaluations extend beyond initial purchase decisions to encompass long-term ownership responsibilities. Understanding maintenance requirements, warranty coverage, and preventive care strategies significantly impacts total cost of ownership across all vehicle categories. Japanese manufacturers—Honda, Toyota, and Mazda—historically demonstrate superior reliability ratings, translating to lower maintenance expenses throughout ownership periods.

Regular car maintenance fundamentals apply universally across sedan categories. Oil changes, fluid checks, filter replacements, and tire rotations represent essential preventive care that extends component lifespan and maintains warranty coverage. Most manufacturers recommend oil changes at 10,000-mile intervals, with synthetic formulations extending intervals to 15,000 miles in some applications.

Transmission maintenance deserves particular attention, especially for vehicles employing continuously variable transmissions or eight-speed automatics. Gregg emphasizes following manufacturer-specified transmission fluid service intervals, as proper lubrication prevents premature wear and maintains smooth shifting characteristics. Engine oil change procedures vary between vehicles, but most modern sedans accommodate straightforward maintenance with basic mechanical knowledge.

Warranty coverage varies significantly across manufacturer lines. Japanese brands typically offer three years or 36,000 miles of powertrain coverage, while Genesis and Hyundai extend coverage to five years or 60,000 miles. European luxury brands provide comparable three-year coverage but often include complimentary maintenance during the warranty period. Understanding specific warranty terms prevents unexpected expenses and clarifies coverage limitations.

Brake system maintenance requires periodic attention, particularly for vehicles operating in urban environments with frequent stopping. Gregg recommends professional brake inspections annually, with brake pad replacement typically occurring between 25,000 and 70,000 miles depending on driving habits and pad material composition. Premium vehicles often employ carbon-ceramic brake systems that last significantly longer than traditional friction materials.

Tire selection impacts both safety and long-term operating costs. Gregg emphasizes choosing tires appropriate for regional climate conditions, with all-season compounds providing versatility for most drivers while winter-specific tires enhance safety during cold-weather operation. Tire rotations every 5,000-7,500 miles promote even wear distribution, extending tire lifespan and maintaining optimal handling characteristics.

For drivers considering electric vehicle advantages, several traditional sedan manufacturers now offer electrified powertrains. The Toyota Camry hybrid option and BMW’s emerging electric initiatives represent the industry’s transition toward sustainable powertrain technologies. Gregg anticipates continued electrification across sedan lineups, with battery technology improvements driving adoption rates among mainstream buyers.

Insurance considerations deserve mention when evaluating total ownership costs. Luxury and performance-oriented sedans typically command higher insurance premiums compared to mainstream alternatives. Comprehensive and collision coverage costs reflect replacement parts expenses, with European luxury vehicles requiring specialized components that increase repair expenses. Obtaining insurance quotes before purchase clarifies total cost implications across different vehicle categories.

FAQ

What makes Carly Gregg’s sedan selections unique?

Carly Gregg’s evaluations balance objective performance metrics with subjective driving experience assessments. She prioritizes vehicles that excel across multiple dimensions—reliability, performance, comfort, and value—rather than optimizing single characteristics. Her selections represent practical recommendations for diverse buyer priorities, from luxury-focused individuals to value-conscious families.

Which sedan offers the best fuel economy?

The Toyota Camry hybrid achieves the highest fuel economy among Gregg’s selections, with EPA estimates exceeding 50 mpg combined. The Hyundai Sonata hybrid delivers comparable efficiency, while traditional gasoline-powered sedans typically achieve 25-28 mpg combined. Gregg recommends hybrid powertrains for high-mileage drivers who can recoup premium costs through fuel savings.

Are these 2023 sedans still relevant in 2024?

Most 2023 sedan models continue production into 2024 with minor refinements. The fundamental qualities Gregg emphasized—reliability, performance, and value—remain constant across model years. Prospective buyers may find attractive discounts on remaining 2023 inventory as dealerships transition to newer model years.

Which sedan provides the best warranty coverage?

Genesis G70 and Hyundai Sonata both provide five years or 60,000 miles of complimentary maintenance and roadside assistance. This comprehensive warranty significantly reduces ownership costs compared to competitors offering three-year coverage. Gregg emphasizes evaluating warranty terms when calculating total cost of ownership.

How do these sedans compare to SUVs and crossovers?

Sedans offer superior fuel economy, lower purchase prices, and more responsive handling compared to crossovers. However, crossovers provide increased interior space and higher seating positions that appeal to some drivers. Gregg recommends evaluating specific lifestyle requirements before choosing between sedan and crossover body styles.

What safety features should buyers prioritize?

Gregg emphasizes forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance as essential safety technologies. These systems address common accident scenarios and provide meaningful protection across diverse driving conditions. Premium vehicles offer additional safety innovations including blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.

Which sedan offers the best value proposition?

The Hyundai Sonata delivers exceptional value through aggressive pricing, comprehensive warranty coverage, and improving reliability ratings. The Honda Accord provides strong value through legendary durability and practical functionality. Gregg’s recommendations vary based on individual priority rankings—performance, luxury, reliability, or cost-consciousness.

Are these sedans available with all-wheel drive?

Most sedans in Gregg’s selections offer all-wheel drive options, including the BMW 340i, Genesis G70, Toyota Camry, Mazda6, and Mercedes-Benz C-Class. All-wheel drive enhances traction in adverse weather conditions, though it typically reduces fuel economy and increases purchase price compared to front-wheel-drive alternatives.