The grand sedan, once a symbol of automotive luxury and prestige, is quietly fading from the automotive landscape. Major manufacturers like Lexus (with the LS), Infiniti, and even Audi seem hesitant to fully commit to the segment, while Cadillac’s CT6 departure left a noticeable gap in the American market. This trend isn’t limited to flagship models; a wave of large sedans from mainstream brands – including the Chevrolet Impala, Nissan Maxima, Ford Taurus, and Volkswagen Passat – have also been discontinued in recent years.
Why Sedans Are Struggling
The core reason for this decline is simple: declining consumer demand. SUVs and crossovers have surged in popularity, offering versatility and a commanding view of the road that many buyers find appealing. As a result, automakers have prioritized developing and marketing these more popular vehicles, often at the expense of traditional sedans.
The Chinese Solution: Embracing Long-Wheelbase Sedans
However, there’s a compelling exception to this trend: China. In the Chinese market, long-wheelbase sedans remain popular, offering a blend of luxury, comfort, and status. These extended models prioritize rear passenger space – often considered a key factor for buyers who are driven by others. This leads to a crucial question: should Western markets follow suit?
A Pragmatic Approach: Repurposing Existing Platforms
One potential solution lies in adapting existing platforms to create long-wheelbase versions. For instance, an extended Altima could effectively replace the departed Maxima without requiring a massive investment in a completely new model. Similarly, a “Lexus ES L” could offer a more affordable alternative to the flagship LS, providing increased rear passenger space and potentially additional features. While it wouldn’s match a purpose-built flagship, the increased comfort would still be desirable.
German Automakers Lead the Way in China
German manufacturers have long recognized the demand for long-wheelbase sedans in China, offering a range of extended models tailored to the market. Recent sightings of a redesigned Audi A6 L – including a variant with an extra 5.2 inches (132 mm) wheelbase – demonstrate their ongoing commitment to this segment. This suggests a viable market for longer sedans beyond the ultra-luxury realm.
A Glimpse into the Past: The Infiniti Q70L
There’s precedent for this approach in the United States as well. The Infiniti Q70L, revealed at the 2014 New York Auto Show, extended the car’s wheelbase by 5.9 inches (150 mm), adding valuable rear legroom and lending the car a more stately presence. Its success – or lack thereof – offers valuable insight into the potential demand for this type of vehicle.
The decline of the flagship sedan isn’t just about changing tastes; it’s also about strategic resource allocation. Embracing long-wheelbase versions of existing models could provide a cost-effective way to cater to a niche market without breaking the bank.
Ultimately, the question remains: would American car buyers welcome long-wheelbase sedans? The answer likely hinges on a combination of factors, including pricing, features, and a willingness among manufacturers to experiment with this intriguing alternative to the ubiquitous SUV. While it may not return the grand sedans of yesteryear, the long-wheelbase model could represent a pragmatic and appealing compromise.
