The Era of Flagship Sedans Is Ending
Many automakers are abandoning flagship sedans. The Lexus LS is gradually disappearing from the market, Infiniti said goodbye to them even earlier. Audi is hesitating about the future of the A8 model, and the Cadillac CT6 left the American market too quickly.
Large Sedans Are Losing Popularity
Mass-market large sedans are also disappearing: over the past decade, many models have ceased production. Among them are the Chevrolet Impala, Nissan Maxima, Ford Taurus, and Volkswagen Passat. Although the latter two are still sold abroad, this is little consolation for Americans tired of SUVs.
The Chinese Experience: Long-Wheelbase Sedans
The general consensus is that large sedans are no longer popular enough to keep. However, some companies continue to produce smaller models that sell quite well. This makes one wonder: shouldn’t the West follow China’s example and start producing long-wheelbase sedans? Such a step could be logical: for example, an Altima L could replace the Maxima without significant development costs.
The general consensus is that large sedans are no longer popular enough to keep.
The Potential of Long-Wheelbase Models
Similarly, a Lexus ES L could replace the LS, offering more space and additional comforts for rear-seat passengers. German automakers already offer a range of long-wheelbase models in China, and recently spy photographers captured the updated A6 L. This model follows the A6 L e-tron, which has a wheelbase that is 5.2 inches (132 mm) longer.
Long-Wheelbase Sedans in the USA
In the United States, long-wheelbase models are usually limited to the ultra-luxury segment. An exception was the Infiniti Q70L, introduced in 2014 at the New York Auto Show. Its wheelbase was increased by 5.9 inches (150 mm), providing more legroom in the rear seats and an elegant appearance.
Considering all this, would you like to see long-wheelbase sedans in the American market?
The transition to long-wheelbase sedans could be a compromise between the practicality of crossovers and the comfort of classic sedans. This is especially relevant for markets where the need for spaciousness is combined with a desire for elegant design. At the same time, such models could attract buyers looking for an alternative to SUVs but not ready to completely give up the benefits of sedans.