This guide is a compiled list of the top-performing 2008-model year midsize cars in J.D. Power and Associates’ key automotive research studies. The studies include the 2007 Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS), the 2007 Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study, and the 2007 Initial Quality Study (IQS). All models are listed alphabetically by manufacturer.
Ford Fusion: A brand-new model in 2006, the 5-passenger midsize Fusion sedan offers consumers the choice between front- and all-wheel drive (FWD and AWD), and 4- or 6-cylinder power. Replacing the previous-generation Taurus in the Ford lineup, the Fusion offers a more youthful and sportier alternative to the competition. New for 2008 is the Sport Appearance package, which adds upgraded suspension, 18-inch wheels, and minor cosmetic changes. In the 2007 IQS, the Ford Fusion ranked among the top three models in its segment, boasting a low number of manufacturing and design defects during the first 90 days of ownership. In standard trim (front-wheel drive, 4-cylinder engine), the EPA fuel-economy estimates for the Fusion are 20 mpg city/28 mpg highway. After the Fusion was updated with standard side and side curtain air bags for 2007, Ford added standard tire-pressure monitoring, standard anti-lock brakes (ABS), and voice activation to the optional navigation system for the 2008 model year.
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Mitsubishi Galant: One of the larger midsize sedans on the market, the Mitsubishi Galant follows the traditional segment pattern of offering 4- and 6-cylinder powerplants with their front-wheel–drive, 5-passenger vehicles. Mitsubishi gives buyers a long list of standard features, and available touch-screen navigation, Sirius satellite radio, and a 360-watt Rockford audio system. The standard 4-cylinder Galant, with the automatic transmission, earned EPA fuel-economy estimates of 20 mpg city/27 mpg highway. The Mitsubishi Galant ranked among the top three models in its segment in the 2007 IQS, which measures new-vehicle quality during the first 90 days of ownership. The 2008 model year brought a standard tire-pressure monitoring system, six standard air bags, and revisions to the model lineup.
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Nissan Altima Sedan: Over the years, the line separating the larger Nissan Maxima from its smaller sibling, the Nissan Altima, has blurred. Today, the Nissan Altima presents itself as one of Nissan’s most versatile family sedans, offering a range of powertrain options (4-cylinder, 6-cylinder, and hybrid power), and a slew of luxury and technology options. Consumers have noticed, and the Nissan Altima ranked highest in its segment in the 2007 APEAL study. In government crash testing, the NHTSA gave the Altima Sedan dual 5-star frontal-impact ratings, putting it near the top of its class. During EPA fuel-economy testing, the standard 4-cylinder Altima Sedan earned estimates of 23 mpg city/31 mpg highway with the CVT transmission. The Hybrid model earned estimates of 35 mpg city/33 mpg highway (hybrid models often do better in the city cycle), ranking it among the top three models in its class in fuel economy. For 2008, Nissan updated the V-6 engine, and added several safety features and audio options.
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Saturn Aura: Hoping to go head-to-head against the popular Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, and Volkswagen Passat, the new Saturn Aura was designed to offer more interior room and competitive ride and handling characteristics. Shortly after its launch, it was met with positive accolades from the media. Consumers agree, according to the 2007 APEAL study, in which the Aura ranked among the top three models in its segment. With the standard engine (both 4- and 6-cylinder models are offered) and an automatic transmission, the Aura returned EPA fuel-economy estimates of 22 mpg city/30 mpg highway. For 2008, Saturn is adding standard satellite radio, stability control on some V-6 models, and several new package components.
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Toyota Camry Solara: Completely redesigned in 2004, and further restyled in 2006, the Toyota Camry Solara coupé is also available as a convertible. In the 2007 IQS, the Solara ranked among the top three models in its segment. The Solara also captured a top-three ranking in the 2007 VDS, a study that focuses on owner-reported problems of three-year-old vehicles. With the standard 5-speed automatic transmission and 4-cylinder powerplant, the Solara boasts a Top 3 finish in its category for EPA fuel economy with estimates of 22 mpg city/31 mpg highway. The 2008 Camry Solara is carryover from last year.
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Volkswagen Passat: The largest sedan offering from Volkswagen, the current-generation Passat was redesigned for the 2006 model year. The 5-passenger sedan was joined by a wagon body style in 2007. Today, consumers have the choice between the two body styles, 4- or 6-cylinder powerplants, and front- or all-wheel drive (Volkswagen calls their AWD system 4Motion). The Passat ranked among the top three models in its segment in the 2007 APEAL study. When crash-tested by the IIHS, the Volkswagen Passat won a “Top Safety Pick” honor as one of the best in its class. During EPA fuel-economy testing, the standard front-wheel-drive, 4-cylinder Passat returned estimates of 19 mpg city/28 mpg highway. Volkswagen made minor equipment changes to the Passat for the 2008 model year.
