It was one of the most powerful and best-handling family sedans available, making the nameplate competitive in the midsize segment for the first time.

The Learjet 85 fits between the midsize and the super midsize segments of the market.

The midsize segment in which it now competes is the single largest part of the market, accounting for annual United States sales of about four million.

With so much at stake in the midsize segment, virtually every major auto maker offers at least one worthy entry.

The BLS is the first Cadillac of the the premium midsize segment.

Financial losses, layoffs and plant closings have been the focus of attention, but they are consequences of weak car sales, especially in the midsize segment.

Topping the premium midsize segment is the new-for-2011 hybrid version of the front-drive Lincoln MKZ.

John Biel: The Accord has long been a rock-solid choice in the midsize segment and continues to be with this new generation.

The L-Series line, which went on sale this summer, doubles Saturn's offerings and puts it into the midsize segment, the largest part of the auto market.

The Durango is a 'tweener in price as well as size, straddling the midsize and full-size segments.