Executive editions get sleeker, fun to drive, too

HYUNDAI Sonata 2015

EXECUTIVE sedans, as the term “executive” suggests, are normally those coveted by people who have reached a certain level in their careers that give them the opportunity to choose larger sedans that bear a more sophisticated and commanding appeal.

They are usually those who get things done remotely from their big and cushy armchairs at the office who prefer a roomy backseat with access to nearly all the fine amenities a driver enjoys, all without the “chore” of actually having to operate the vehicle.

Comfort is a priority, so executive sedans with their more generous dimensions are equipped with large displacement engines that lithely and quietly move them from destination to destination, without much effort.

These sedans have a more plush ride quality, suspension damping tuned to the softer side, and more or better sound-deadening materials all around to bring noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) levels down for a more serene ride.

But that, however, has become the minimum requirement—or merely the standard qualification. Current executive sedans are evolved to a point where they also cater to individuals who prefer to take the wheel and enjoy an exhilarating, albeit relaxing driving experience.

We can say an executive sedan is a dual role car that can be both a luxurious lounge and a high-performance vehicle.

Here’s a collection of exquisite specimens released this year, including notable previous releases.

Honda Accord

As it always has been a reliable, smooth glide of a ride, the Accord has garnered many Car of the Year awards in the United States in its earlier years.

Much improved competition has changed that but the latest Accord remains as one of the top choices in this class.

Honda has since foregone its exceptional Variable Cylinder Management feature for the more cost-effective and holistically beneficial Earth Dreams Technology to provide for a more eco-friendly and fuel-efficient drive. It is nevertheless, one of the quickest and most powerful.

The latest Accord comes in a 2.4 S AT inline four-cylinder variant, along with its top of the line 3.5 SV V6 model, which delivers an impressive 277.04 HP at 6200 revolutions per minute.

As expected, it’s awash with an extensive array of active and passive safety features, but is the one with a sportier handling characteristic and performance in the lot.

Toyota Camry

Many would consider the Camry as the staple executive sedan, and be glad to see it transform through the years into a sleeker and more dynamic looking ride especially in its latest iteration.

It can’t get any more straightforward describing Toyota’s signature “underpriority and keen” look, that totally changed its fascia but made it more thematic with the other nameplates in Toyota’s current roster.

Sporting gaping intakes on its sculpted front bumper, with fog lamp housings cleverly integrated to its secondary grille/air dam, the aesthetics certainly fit the specs of its top-end variant equipped with a 3.5-liter 24-valve, DOHC Dual-VVTi V6 engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission with Super ECT.

It delivers 277 hp at 6200 rpm, with a hefty 346 Newton-meters of torque—lots of executive fun to be had with plenty of power on tap.

Hyundai Sonata

The principle of using stunning design to draw attention to a car’s other salient features is an effective one, whether or not Hyundai would admit to it. The new Hyundai Sonata, launched just a year ago, should be the perfect example.

Taking full advantage of a refined but purposeful look via their Fluidic Sculpture 2.0 design principle, the Sonata is certainly one of the more attractive executive sedans in its class.

Its appeal, however, goes much deeper than the sheet metal, as features like Advanced High Strength Steel used on its body construction, a heightened level of interior ergonomics via their Human Machine Interface, and more cutting edge advancements in both safety and performance that stem out of their obvious eye-catching feature.

All the impressive tech accoutrements aside, one might be left wanting for more power from its 2.4-liter Theta II engine (with an 175.5-HP output) in their Sonata 2.4-liter GLS 6A/T Premium variant.

Mazda 6 SkyActiv

Launched in 2013, the Mazda 6 SkyActiv got a refresh for its release this year—alongside an equally handsome Mazda 6 Wagon. Ever since Mazda’s split with Ford a few years back, the brand, for lack of a more masculine word, “blossomed” into one that totally holds its own.

THE HONDA Accord is awash with an extensive array of safety features, but has the sportier handling characteristic and performance in the lot.

Their design language is about “Kodo,” or Soul of Motion, that catches the eye and moves the soul, where every crease and curvature speaks of elegance and strong character.

Indeed the 6 is a full-sized executive sedan that turns heads and leaves a very positive impression to those who get to drive it.

It utilizes Mazda’s proprietary SkyActiv technology that combines advanced developments in its engine, transmission, body, and chassis to achieve the most ideal performance, efficiency, occupant safety, and eco-friendliness.

The Mazda 6 SkyActiv-G 2.5 is powered by a four-cylinder 2.5-liter DOHC 16-valve gasoline engine mated to a six-speed SkyActiv Drive automatic transmission.

It tops out at 188 hp and 250 Nm of Torque, but delivers those figures in the most satisfying manner.

It’s an executive sedan that begs to be driven, as it speaks to a more “involved” set—with its unique “soul red” color and standard 19-inch alloy wheels.

The Bose surround sound audio system also cranks up the interior perks that include remarkably comfortable seating and a plush ride quality.

Subaru Legacy

The all-new Subaru Legacy launched just April at the Manila International Auto Show makes for an unconventional entry in the Executive Sedan class. Though it fits-in very easily in terms of its understated yet refined aesthetics, it’s an astoundingly capable performer—actually a sleeper in driving enthusiast terms.

In its 3.6R-S top tier variant, it provides for the kind of dynamics and sporting performance you’d expect from a more compact sedan in Subaru’s lineup, and depending on your propensity for fun, it’s easy to bring it up to “yeehaa” levels.

Its 3.6-liter, horizontally opposed six-cylinder boxer engine churns out 256.34 HP and 350 m of torque, and is mated to a Lineartronic automatic transmission, in an AWD configuration.

It’s sharp, agile and incredibly planted in terms of its handling, as expected from boxer-engined AWD Subarus, and it’d appeal to the executive who’d choose performance over luxurious niceties.

Its interior is very straightforward and driver/passenger comfort levels just average- but it is, without a doubt, thirsty, in terms of fuel consumption.

Typical traffic aside though, you can count on the Subaru Legacy 3.6R-S to get you to your meeting with time to spare.

Peugeot 508

French brand Peugeot offers an executive sedan that looks like it’s ready to cross over to the premium luxury class of midsize sedans, in the refreshed 508 for 2015. Add to its unique positioning in this segment, is its exceedingly fuel efficient and sweet running 2.2-liter diesel engine that powers its higher GT variant.

The 508’s cosmetic redesign upped its visual desirability a couple of notches, and updates it effectively to be on par aesthetically with its more competitively priced competition.

It’s unmistakably a Euro car in terms of interior design—straightforward but with a dash of panache, and with more than ample legroom at the second row.

It also provides for a very smooth and quiet ride, making it conducive for its all-important rear passenger to make those critical executive decisions.

It is however, quite enjoyable to drive with its abundant power and precise handling, not to mention a comfortable driving position and the kind of easy drivability that’d let you be on it all day.

Its price point at P2.59 million is on the high side, so one will have to decide if the all-around benefits are worth it.

Chevrolet Malibu

Executives are a picky lot; though there must be a loose template to define their preferences, there has to be a few exceptions that would set a car apart to vie for their attention. The Chevrolet Malibu joined in on the executive sedan race a little late, but came up with a compelling option nonetheless.

Most notable design cue lies at its rear end, with Camaro-inspired tail light clusters flanking that very recognizable bowtie of a badge. The uniqueness however, fades off towards the rather plain front end and profile, which makes the car look a bit dated.

But where the others prioritize exterior impact, Chevrolet chose to pile on the good stuff on the interior of the Malibu. Premium materials for the controls, accents, upholstery, dash and console surfaces were used to provide for a better tactile experience for the driver and passengers.

The infotainment system features a 7-inch touch screen interface that links up effortlessly to your smartphone. Ride quality is optimal, with NVH levels at the minimum.

The Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a 2.4-liter Ecotec engine that produces 167 hp at 5800 rpm, and 225 Nm of torque—not much to move a sizeable sedan that’s more attuned to providing comfort than dynamic performance.

Executive decisions

There are indeed compelling choices in the current slew of executive sedans, and though they’re pigeon-holed for the needs and wants of a certain segment in the market, the list of options, amenities, performance capabilities and pricing considerations could get overwhelming.

The fact that these sedans also double as great family cars doesn’t make it any easier.

Well, manufacturers could count on the fact that the specific market they’re courting with their executive offerings are good at making sound decisions, it’s just that they’re a bit harder to please.