G8 GXP
Pontiac adds a sport-themed GXP model to the G8 family for 2009.

Large cars aren't as large in the marketplace as they once were. Once the staple of the American automotive marketplace, large cars have fallen from grace in recent decades, supplanted by minivans, SUVs, and smaller sedans.

That doesn't mean this segment is dead. Far from it. Large cars still have a lot of appeal, both for cargo-carrying ability and passenger capacity.

Some folks think large cars are simply boring family sedans. While this class may not be all about flash and dash, it's not all drudgery either. You'll find powerful V8 engines, provocative styling, and all-wheel drive available in this segment. Some cars have more personality--like the Pontiac G8; some are skewed toward luxury--like the Toyota Avalon; and some are just plain commodious--like the Ford Taurus and its Mercury Mariner sibling.

What is a Large Car?

Large cars offer plenty of cargo room and passenger space, making them a good fit for buyers who need or want a lot of space but aren't interested in minivans or SUVs. Not only do large cars offer plenty of passenger space, but they usually have large trunks--perfect for stowing golf clubs, luggage, and groceries.

Cars in this class were primarily used as family haulers. Lately, however, SUVs have taken on that role, leaving large cars to find a niche as taxis, police cars, and rentals. The public has been rediscovering large cars in recent years, however. High gas prices have driven customers out of large SUVs, and many of those customers have found large cars capable of meeting their needs.

While the large-car marketplace has changed dramatically over the past decade, one thing hasn't changed: value. Large cars still offer buyers a decent feature-per-dollar ratio and bottom-line prices only slightly higher than mainstream midsize sedans. That makes large cars a great deal for today's shoppers.

New for 2009

The large car has made a bit of a comeback in recent years, with models like the Chrysler 300 leading the way. The 300--and its twin, the Dodge Charger--gain more available V8 power for 2009. Their available 5.7-liter Hemi V8 jumps to 359 horsepower in the 300 and 370 in the Charger, an increase of 19 and 30, respectively.

Pontiac's rear-drive G8, which was a late 2008 model-year addition, returns and adds a sport-themed GXP model for 2009. According to General Motors, the GXP's 6.2-liter V8 makes an estimated 402 horsepower. It will be paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission or an optional 6-speed manual. GXP-specific features should include a performance suspension, 19-inch wheels, and unique exterior styling. Pontiac is counting on GXP to raise G8's performance profile.

Also making news for 2009 is Buick Lucerne's new 3.9-liter V6. It replaces the old 3.6-liter mill. In addition, Ford's Taurus adds a new base trim level, the SE. Lastly, the Kia Amanti and the Mercury Grand Marquis each add a few new features and Toyota's Avalon loses its Touring trim level.

One car won't be returning for 2009. The only wagon available in this class, Dodge Magnum, was a sales dud and got the axe during 2008.  
 
What to Look for in a Large Car

Shoppers in this class are usually looking for cargo room and passenger space. As important as space is in this class, some contenders focus more on power or luxury.

A high feature-per-dollar ratio is important in all classes, and the large car segment is no exception. Options such as satellite radio and navigation systems are available on most cars in this class. For example, Taurus and Sable offer a navigation system, and they also offer Ford's Sync, which is a voice-activated interface system for cell phones and digital music players.

Front-wheel drive and rear-wheel drive powertrains are available in this class, and a few selections offer all-wheel drive. Taurus, Sable, Charger, and 300 are among those that offer all-wheel drive. Those who live in areas that often suffer inclement weather would be well served to consider front-wheel or all-wheel drive. Those who plan to tow may want to consider rear- or all-wheel-drive vehicles.

V6 powerplants are the norm in this class, but a few models--such as 300, Charger, Lucerne, Grand Marquis, and G8--offer V8 power. Extra power comes at a cost, however. Larger engines consume more fuel, and in some cases, they also mean higher insurance premiums.

Large Car Safety

Safety is important in every class, and large cars excel in this area, thanks to a combination of size and features. Many large car owners have families, and as such, tend to be more responsible drivers.

ABS and front airbags are standard equipment on most large cars. ABS is optional on Charger and 300 base models. Curtain and side airbags are recommended, as well. On some cars, these airbags are standard, on others--like 300, Charger, and Grand Marquis--they're optional.

Drivers who often deal with snowy or rainy conditions should consider an antiskid system. An antiskid system works with the ABS to help drivers maintain the intended path on a slippery road. These systems can come in handy during poor weather. These systems are worth the extra money if inclement weather occurs frequently in the area where you live. Antiskid systems are optional on 300, Charger, and Kia Amanti. An antiskid system is not available on Mercury Grand Marquis.

Consumer Guide recommends that buyers purchase as much safety equipment as possible, even if it means foregoing some luxury equipment. Safety should always take priority over comfort, performance, and luxury.

Large Car Shopping Tips

There are several things that shoppers in this class need to think about. For example, cash rebates and financing offers may be available, which can help tip the scale in one direction. Also, large cars aren't in high demand compared to vehicles in other classes, which means buyers may have the upper hand when negotiating price.

It's also wise to carefully select options. Base prices in this class are reasonable, but they can rise quickly depending on what equipment is added to the bottom line. It's not hard to make a sticker jump from around $20,000 to near $40,000 if options aren't chosen judiciously.

The Dodge Charger is a great example. A Charger SE with the 2.7-liter V6 starts at $23,895. A Charger R/T, which comes standard with a V8 and a host of performance and luxury features, adds up to $31,860. That's a big jump.

You might have guessed that luxury and performance are big-time players in the large-car marketplace--and the automakers' biggest profit centers. As a buyer, it is your job to make sure you pay only for the amount of luxury and performance you need. In most cases, that means a reasonably fuel-efficient V6 engine and a few features. Load the car up with equipment and you might as well purchase a luxury car.

The bottom line is shop smart. Choose the least-expensive model that meets your needs, select only the options that you require, and don't skimp on safety.