Does The Cadenza Signal The End Of The Premium Class?

Big, regal sedans wore propellers or stars on their hoods a decade or so ago — imposing executive expressions as ruthlessly polished as their owners.

Bimmers, Benzes and others had a finely stirred mix of performance, head-turning style and leather-soaked luxury that no mainstream sedan could hope to match.

They glistened in traffic like a gold Rolex on a rich man's tanned arm.

Meanwhile, we got Ford Tauruses and Nissan Maximas. Whoopee.

But here's a little secret about the auto industry today: While the rich eat more cake than ever — and can still buy and sell most of us over French appetizers before $50 lunches — the class gap continues to narrow in cars.

jeffgall - 10/7/2013 12:11:32 PM

+4 Boost

No. On paper these cars check the boxes on features and options, similar to the premium brands, but when looked closer, quality is still behind - materials used, the drive experience, etc... Many who don't care will be fooled, but those in the know are less likely to consider.

xjug1987a - 10/7/2013 6:08:53 PM

+2 Boost

I agree with Jeffgall, these cars are nice, but the pedigree isn't there. Perhaps in 20 years the others will be diluted, but I don't see it. Cadenza... where that come from? The name alone completely turns me off.

rumnyc - 10/9/2013 1:29:23 AM

+1 Boost

the headlamps look like a straight rip-off off the BMW 5GT

carsnyc - 10/9/2013 12:44:24 PM

+1 Boost

I don't know. Everybody said the same thing about Lexus and look where they are now.