The Future of Flagship Sedans in a World of SUVs

There used to be a time when flagship sedans were the pulse of luxury car brands. The BMW 7 Series, Mercedes S‑Class, Lexus LS, and Audi A8 didn’t only carry executives—they embodied automotive greatness.

But cut to 2025, and something’s different: SUVs dominate. From suburbanites to CEOs, everyone’s grabbing crossovers and sport‑utes. So where does that leave the luxury sedan? Are we seeing the slow demise of the sedan—or the start of a revolutionary makeover?

Let’s dive into the future of flagship sedans in this SUV‑dominated universe, from the view of a mechanic who has witnessed this transformation over service bays, test drives, and world launches.

🚗 Sedans: Once the Symbol of Automotive Power

Flagship sedans used to be more than vehicles—they were statements:

• Mercedes S‑Class led the way on safety and technology
• BMW 7 Series was a precision driver’s limo
• Lexus LS redefined reliability with sophistication

These vehicles were about legacy, lineage, and leadership. They weren’t volume sellers—they were brand ambassadors.

🔺 SUV Takeover: The Market Shift That Changed Everything

From 2015 to 2025, the SUV segment exploded—not just rugged off‑roaders, but luxury SUVs that took sedans’ top‑spot as best sellers.

U.S. Market Share: 2025 Snapshot

Today’s customers demand height, room, presence, and practicality. Sedans—no matter how stylish—aren’t delivering the raised driving position or family‑friendly configurations they’re seeking.

⚙️ Mechanic’s View: Why Sedans Still Matter

Here’s the one thing most consumers tend to forget: sedans are highly engineered for long‑term comfort and performance.

• Drive better at high speeds
• Improved aerodynamics, boosting EV range
• Less wear on tires and suspension
• Lower ride height simplifies service access and fluid changes
• More efficient—less weight and drag

And flagship sedans still get the latest tech first, before it filters down to SUVs.

🔋 The Revival of the Flagship Sedan in 2025

Sedans haven’t been abandoned by luxury brands—they’re reinventing them.

Advances Currently Underway

• EV Powertrains:
  • Porsche Taycan, BMW i7, Mercedes EQS deliver instant torque and eerie quiet
• Design Revolution:
  • Long, coupe‑bodied sedans like Lucid Air or Audi A7 pair performance with flair
• Tech Showcase:
  • MBUX Hyperscreen, BMW Theatre Screen, Lexus Teammate AI debut first on sedans

Real‑World Examples

🌟 Why Sedans Are Still Worth Buying (and Building)

Even with SUV domination, flagships remain necessary for three key reasons:

1. Brand Identity: A flagship sedan is a brand’s crown jewel
2. Global Demand: Strong sedan markets in China, the Middle East, and Germany
3. Driving Experience: No SUV tops the balance, poise, and highway smoothness of a sedan

Even Tesla—built on the Model S sedan—continues to develop its flagship four‑door.

👤 Who Should Still Purchase a Flagship Sedan in 2025?

🔧 Last Word from the Garage

SUVs might be taking the sales crown—but sedans still take the prize on feel, finesse, and future‑luxury.