The global automotive market is witnessing a major turning point with the strong comeback of the sedan. Long overshadowed by the dazzling success of SUVs in previous years, the sedan is now reaffirming its place at the heart of manufacturers’ strategies, driven by the growing demand for efficiency and aerodynamics, particularly in the context of the rise of electric vehicles. This 12th episode of the « En voiture! » series seeks to decipher the multiple reasons for this comeback, drawing on technical developments, driver expectations, and the renewed offering flourishing in this segment often considered to be in decline. Iconic brands such as Renault, Peugeot, Citroën, Volkswagen, Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Toyota, Ford, and Honda are embarking on this new era, where the sedan is becoming a model that is modern, economical, and attractive. The change in stylistic codes, the integration of batteries into the floor of electric vehicles, and the rise of premium models are dynamically contributing to this renaissance.
If the fashion effect of SUVs remains palpable, the objective in mind of manufacturers is now the reduction of air resistance to optimize autonomy and electrical performance. In this context, the sedan, with its lower and profiled shapes, stands out as a natural response. This movement is reinforced by innovations such as movable shutters, solid hubcaps or even the plunging roof, which have now become essential standards. The DS N°8 or the Mercedes AMG GT XX embody this ambitious new generation offering a renewed aesthetic while offering impressive performance, as evidenced by the 1,360 horsepower of the pure German electric sports car. This transformation can be followed and deepened thanks to the resources available on specialized platforms and through fascinating reports available in particular on Citroën, The Central or on Self-Leisure.
The technical and stylistic evolution of the sedan in the face of modern challenges
The sedan of 2025 has little in common with that of decades past. While the interior volume, the raised driving position and the robust look were the major levers which favored the success of SUVs, these criteria today face a new technical and environmental situation. The massive electrification of the automobile fleet leads to specific constraints which are based on an unprecedented optimization of the air penetration coefficient (Cx). This parameter directly influences the range of electric cars, a determining issue at a time when sustainable mobility is becoming a priority.
The lines are becoming more refined, the silhouettes are becoming lower and longer, and the transition to a resolutely aerodynamic two-box profile is widespread. Integrated innovations such as movable front flaps that open or close according to thermal needs, wheels with solid hubcaps that limit turbulence, and sloping roofs contribute to this effort driven by the majority of the manufacturer field. 🔧
- Integrating the batteries into the floor: This technique allows for a lower center of gravity and a natural lift of the lines without sacrificing interior space. 🎨
- New aesthetic codes: The style is both sporty and comfortable, combining functionality and elegance. ⚙️
- Advanced aerodynamic optimization: Cx reduction below 0.20 for certain models. Historic French manufacturers such as Renault, Peugeot, and Citroën, as well as their German rivals Audi, Volkswagen, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz, are relying on these principles to boost their sedan offerings. Toyota, Ford, and Honda are also following this trend, bringing their own specific approaches to a segment that is more competitive than ever. Manufacturer 🚗
Flagship model sedan 🔥
| Drag coefficient (Cd) 🌬️ | Electric power (hp) ⚡ | Mercedes-Benz | AMG GT XX Electric |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0.19 | 1360 | DS Automobiles | DS N°8 |
| 0.22 | 350 | Volkswagen | Passat Electric |
| 0.24 | 300 | Peugeot | 508 PSE |
| 0.26 | 360 | Toyota | Mirai Sedan |
| 0.25 | 245 | These developments can be found in detail on specialized resources such as | Le Figaro |
or Guide Auto TV . Discover our range of sedans combining elegance, comfort, and performance. Ideal for your daily commute or long trips, the sedan offers optimized space and a pleasant ride. Explore our varied models and find the car that meets your needs. Contemporary Drivers’ Expectations and the Renewed Driving ExperienceIn a fiercely competitive automotive market, meeting precise customer expectations has become more important than ever. Most drivers still value comfort, spaciousness, safety, and performance, but they now add a keen interest in onboard technology and environmental impact. The sedan, with its sleek yet spacious silhouette, adapts remarkably to these demands.
Acoustic comfort and advanced suspension:
like Citroën’s Progressive Hydraulic Bump Stops® technology
🖥️
- Digital dashboards and enhanced connectivity: smooth and customizable interfaces ⚡
- Adapted electric performance: sharp acceleration with optimized energy regeneration 🔒
- Advanced driver assistance systems: blind spot monitoring, autonomous brakes, intelligent cruise control According to experts, these elements form the foundation of a modernized automotive experience with the sedan as the main vehicle. Detailed analyses on these topics are available, notably via
- Guide Auto TV as well as various automotive news reports available on Auto-Loisirs
. Appearance 🚘 Examples / Technologies 💡 Main Benefits 🔑 ComfortProgressive Hydraulic Bump Stops® suspension (Citroën), Advanced Comfort seats
| Vibration reduction, extended comfort on varied roads | Connectivity | Digital screens, voice assistants, CarPlay / Android Auto system |
|---|---|---|
| Simplified navigation, hands-free communication | Performance | Quiet electric motors, distributed all-wheel drive |
| Improved responsiveness, energy efficiency | Safety | Automated driving aids, 360° detection, autonomous braking |
| Fewer accidents, reduced fatigue | Video: The electric driving experience in a modern sedan | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r1HTRYgqL1g |
| Discover our wide selection of sedans combining comfort, elegance, and performance. Whether for your daily commute or getaways, our sedan models offer you an unparalleled driving experience. | The renewed offering: major brands and iconic models to watch | Manufacturers are focusing on innovation and diversity to attract customers of today’s sedan. This segment is regaining strength thanks to an extensive range, ranging from high-end models to compact family cars, all adapted to electric and hybrid mobility. A review is necessary to understand the trends and must-sees to follow. 🚗 |
Renault:
Peugeot:
Innovates with the 508 PSE and a high-performance hybrid version
- 🔴 Citroën: The sedan range with a focus on comfort and energy efficiency
- 🆒 Volkswagen: Launches the electric Passat, a revisited icon
- ✨ Audi: Offers the A6 e-tron, a luxurious and sporty offering
- 🟡 BMW: Asserts its electric sedans with the 5 Series in iPerformance version
- 🌟 Mercedes-Benz: The AMG GT XX revolution, very high-end
- 🛡️ Toyota: Develops the hydrogen-powered Mirai, in an avant-garde sedan
- 🚀 Ford and Honda: Bring a sporty touch to their electric ranges and Hybrids
- For a complete overview, consult La Centrale or the in-depth analysis on
- Location-Mécanicien to help inform the choices of potential buyers. Brand 🏁
Flagship model 🚗 Electrification type 🔌 Special Feature ⭐ Renault Mégane E-Tech
| 100% Electric | Versatile Compact | Peugeot | 508 PSE |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plug-in Hybrid | Sporty Performance | Citroën | DS N°8 |
| Plug-in Hybrid | Advanced Comfort | Volkswagen | Passat Electric |
| 100% Electric | Modern Icon | Audi | A6 e-tron |
| 100% Electric | Luxury and Sportiness | BMW | 5 Series iPerformance |
| Plug-in Hybrid | Power/Efficiency Balance | Mercedes-Benz | AMG GT XX |
| 100% Electric | High Performance | Toyota | Mirai |
| Hydrogen | Improved Range | Ford | Mustang Mach-E |
| 100% Electric | Accessible Sportiness | Honda | e:Ny1 |
| 100% Electric | Advanced Technology | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2grH3e2-LxA | The The role of aerodynamics in the performance and range of electric sedans |
| The crux of the matter for electric vehicles remains range. Careful energy management now makes it possible to achieve comfortable ranges, but every watt saved contributes to extended usage and anxiety-free driving pleasure. In this context, aerodynamics becomes a fundamental issue, and the sedan stands out for its ability to reduce air resistance. | The design, beyond aesthetics, is a technical deployment combining lightweight materials, fluid shapes, and active mechanisms. Movable flaps adjust the air intake according to use, while solid trims limit airflow disruption. The low profile limits wind resistance, which improves performance and provides greater stability. 🌪️ | Two-box profiles and sloping roof: | Key shapes for improved fluidity |
Active air vents:
For thermal and aerodynamic optimization
🕶️
- Solid or partially covered rims: Reduces drag ⚖️
- Use of composite materials: Saves weight without sacrificing rigidity Among the most notable examples to follow, the Mercedes AMG GT XX, with its exceptional drag coefficient of 0.19, displays a technological feat and underscores the importance of this battle. The phenomenon is documented in detail in reference sources such as
- Guide Auto TV and Le Figaro
- . Aerodynamic Element 💨 Function ⚙️
Main Advantage 🚀 Movable flaps Temperature-based airflow regulation Better fuel efficiencySolid rims
| Limitation of turbulence around the wheels | Reduced drag | Sloping roof |
|---|---|---|
| Reduced rear air resistance | Increased stability and range | Composite materials |
| Lighter vehicle weight | Reduced fuel consumption | Transition and future prospects for the sedan versus SUVs and other segments |
| Despite the continued strong enthusiasm for SUVs, we are lacking in certain areas where the sedan naturally excels. Recent years have highlighted the energy-intensive and bulky limitations of SUVs in the context of electric mobility and emissions reduction. Moreover, the sedan is gaining in versatility and expertise, with notable improvements in both technology and style. | The future of the sedan looks rather bright thanks to well-defined strategic directions. The majority of the field seems to agree on a balanced coexistence where the sedan brings its advantages of comfort, autonomy, and innovation, thus nicely complementing a range where SUVs are shedding some of their shortcomings. The idea of a raised, lightweight, and highly aerodynamic sedan, combined with electric or hydrogen technology, is now an avenue assiduously explored by industry experts. | ♻️ |
| Technology mix: | electric, hybrid, and hydrogen cars | 🎯 |
Price optimization:
more accessible models while retaining premium features
🔮
- Intelligent design: Aerodynamic shapes without compromising on aesthetics 🔄
- Flexibility of use: Combining urban and long-distance travel with equal efficiency The phenomenon is documented in several formats, notably via
- Guide Auto TV or in the latest analysis available on Location-Mécanicien
- . https://twitter.com/Auto_Propre/status/1831576604629209404 FAQ on the return of the sedan in 2025
Q1: Why is the sedan making a strong comeback after years of SUV dominance? The comeback is mainly explained by the new constraints linked to electrification, where aerodynamics and efficiency take precedence, areas where the sedan excels. Q2: Which brands are most committed to the development of new sedans? Citroën, Renault, Peugeot, Volkswagen, Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, as well as Toyota, Ford, and Honda are among the most active in this segment. Q3: Can electric sedans really compete with the range of SUVs?Yes, thanks to aerodynamic designs and intelligent energy management, electric sedans achieve ranges comparable to, or even superior to, some SUVs.