Premium medium sedans are not dead just yet

There was a time when the nameplates here represented the most attainable entry points into their respective marques.

There was also a time when some of these monikers accounted for positions within the top five of the best-selling new models in the country.

But a lot has changed in the automobile landscape over the last two decades. The rise of crossovers and sport-utility vehicles has just about supplanted the popularity of hatchbacks and sedans.

Still, there remain options for buyers who want three-box sensibilities – with the added prestige of a premium badge.

The models listed here have grown to play in a medium-sized position, neither the smallest nor the largest saloon offerings in their line-ups. Save for the Alfa Romeo, the only sedan in its brand's portfolio.

Alfa Romeo Giulia

Taking the baton from the achingly beautiful 159, the Giulia was positioned as a car that would breathe new life into the Italian brand. But then, that seems to be said about virtually all new Alfa Romeo entrants. Predictably, the Giulia remains a niche product. This is a pity because its blend of unique style, dynamic handling abilities and spirited performance are attributes should experience at least once in their motoring lives.

From: R1,135,900 (2.0 T Veloce)
Engines: 2.0-litre (petrol, turbocharged)
Warranty: Five-year/100,000km
Maintenance plan: Five-year/100,000km
Boot size: 480l

Audi A4

The original A4 was a genuine game-changer for Audi, which reinvigorated its hopes in the premium compact class, turning the brand into a serious volume player. That initial B5 generation was also locally built, in case you forgot, with subsequent iterations being imported. It's hard to believe that the current B9 is nearly a decade old. Its styling might be bland versus newer rivals, but the core substance of the four rings car means it has aged well. As with various other models in the Audi range, the A4 recently received Black Edition styling treatment to boost interest.

From: R952,600 (35 TFSI Black Edition)
Engines: 1.4-litre and 2.0-litre (both turbocharged-petrols)
Warranty: One-year/unlimited mileage
Maintenance plan: Five-year/100,000km
Boot size: 460l

BMW 3 Series

Regarded as the archetypal sports sedan, BMW had cultivated an enviable reputation for its 3 Series over seven generations. The current G20 model, despite having undergone various improvements throughout its life cycle, has not altered the recipe dramatically. Thankfully it has not taken on a set of goofy grilles either. Its poised rear-drive chassis, near-perfect weight distribution and subtle, athletic looks make for a likable package overall. Unlike its predecessors in Mzansi, the latest 3 Series is no longer built at the Rosslyn, Tshwane plant.

From: R913,731 (320i)
Engines: 2.0-litre (turbocharged-petrol and turbocharged-diesel); 3.0-litre (turbocharged-petrol)
Warranty: Two-year/unlimited mileage
Maintenance plan: Five-year/100,000km
Boot size: 480l

Lexus IS

The first generation of the junior Lexus sedan tried to outright emulate the recipe of its nemesis BMW. But following iterations showed that Lexus learned to march to its tune. In its latest guise, the sharp-looking IS has an unmistakable identity. Praiseworthy refinement – and the offering of hybrid technology – positions it as a compelling alternative to the German triumvirate. The continuously variable transmission and normally aspirated motor may not be everyone's cup of tea. But the IS does offer the best warranty and maintenance plan here.

From: R1,080,400 (IS 300h SE)
Engines: 2.5-litre (normally aspirated, hybrid)
Warranty: Seven-year/105,000km plus eight-year/195,000km for the hybrid system
Maintenance plan: Seven-year/105,000km
Boot size: 450l

Mercedes-Benz C-Class

Of all the cars here, the three-pointed star model is the only one that might truly pander to your feelings of patriotism. It remains the last locally built offering of its kind, manufactured in East London at the Mercedes-Benz facility which has been running since the 1950s. The W206 C-Class took on a much sharper aesthetic profile, with a more digitised cabin than its predecessor. There were some build quality criticisms to be levelled at the model, however. And the significant pricing premium over rivals such as the vaunted BMW also raises an eyebrow.

From: R1,065,342 (C200 Avantgarde)
Engines: 2.0-litre (turbocharged petrol and turbocharged diesel)
Warranty: Two-year/unlimited mileage
Maintenance plan: Five-year/100,000km
Boot size: 455l