People often wonder, “What’s the best car out there?” It’s a tough question because there isn’t just one perfect answer. With so many options on the market, finding the best mix of performance, comfort, and value takes serious testing.
Since 1983, we’ve been putting cars to the test to find the top ten that truly stand out. It’s not just about the newest models—returning favorites also compete. Each car is judged on how well it delivers on its purpose, whether it’s a sporty ride, a family-friendly option, or a luxury experience.
The process is intense. Over two weeks, our team of experts drives, tests, and debates each contender. Only the ones that offer the best driving experience, practicality, and value make the final cut. This year, eight familiar names return, while two newcomers shake things up.
If you’re looking for the best cars on sale today, this list has your answer. These are the vehicles that impress not just on paper but where it truly matters—on the road.
10) Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing, A Sports Sedan That Stands Tall
The sports sedan market is shrinking, especially for those who love rear-wheel drive and manual transmissions. Among the few remaining options, only one comes with a V-8 engine—the Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing. This powerhouse has won the 10Best award four times, proving that it’s one of the best performance sedans available today.
The CT5-V Blackwing is built for every kind of driving—highways, winding back roads, and even daily commutes. Despite its immense power, it remains comfortable and refined. For 2025, Cadillac has made it even better with subtle exterior updates, a redesigned infotainment system, and an improved handling package.
On the outside, the changes are minimal but effective. The front bumper has been slightly redesigned, and the split-running lights have been replaced with a sleeker, slimmer lighting setup. These small tweaks keep the car looking modern while maintaining its aggressive presence on the road.
Inside, Cadillac has swapped the previous dual-screen setup for a single curved display, similar to what you’d find in the Escalade. This new screen enhances the cabin’s premium feel while offering a more streamlined and high-tech interface. These updates make the interior more user-friendly without taking away from the car’s performance focus.
One of the biggest changes for 2025 is the Precision package (V8V). This new handling package costs $18,000 but includes carbon-ceramic brakes, which alone are a $9000 option. While expensive, this upgrade makes the car even more composed and precise without sacrificing comfort on regular roads.
Under the hood, the CT5-V Blackwing remains a beast. Its 668-horsepower, 6.2-liter supercharged V-8 launches the car from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds with the automatic transmission. If you prefer a manual, you’ll only lose a tenth of a second in acceleration but save over $4000 on the car’s price.
Starting at $99,090, the CT5-V Blackwing is on the higher end of the 10Best price range. However, considering its performance, luxury, and practicality, it’s worth every dollar. Whether you’re taking it on a road trip, to the track, or just running errands, this car does it all.
For those who love powerful, engaging sedans, the CT5-V Blackwing is a dream come true. It’s not just a car—it’s an experience that will make any drive unforgettable.
9) Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing, The Compact Sports Sedan Champion
High-performance sports sedans are like legendary gunslingers, battling each year to prove their dominance. Among them, the Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing continues to stand tall, securing its place on the 10Best Cars list for the fourth year in a row. Meanwhile, competitors like the BMW M3 and Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio have failed to make the cut.
The CT4-V Blackwing isn’t just about numbers, though its stats are impressive. It can go from 0 to 60 mph in about four seconds, complete a quarter-mile sprint in 12.5 seconds, and reach a top speed of 189 mph. Whether you choose the six-speed manual or the 10-speed automatic, the performance remains nearly identical.
Despite facing strong rivals, the CT4-V Blackwing holds its ground because of its balanced nature. It isn’t just fast—it’s engaging and enjoyable to drive in any situation. Whether you’re on a track or commuting in city traffic, it adapts effortlessly, making every drive exciting.
In Tour mode, the car becomes smooth and comfortable. The steering lightens up, the 472-horsepower twin-turbo V-6 quiets down, and the suspension absorbs rough roads without making the ride feel disconnected. But switch to Track mode, and it turns into a thrilling performance machine, ready to dominate corners and straightaways alike.
Beyond performance, the CT4-V Blackwing is practical. It’s a car you can enjoy on weekends and still use for everyday driving. Whether you’re heading to the racetrack, taking a road trip, or going out for dinner, it delivers a balance of power and refinement few cars can match.
However, it isn’t perfect. The rear seats are cramped, making long rides uncomfortable for passengers. The interior materials also don’t feel as premium as they should, especially compared to the BMW M3. Given its price, which starts at over $60,000 and can exceed $80,000 with options, a more upscale cabin would be a welcome improvement.
Despite these minor flaws, the CT4-V Blackwing remains a standout in its class. It’s powerful, engaging, and more affordable than many of its rivals. For driving enthusiasts looking for a thrilling yet practical sports sedan, this Cadillac remains the best choice.
8) Chevrolet Corvette, A Supercar for Everyone
The Chevrolet Corvette is experiencing one of the greatest moments in its long history. After years of speculation, Chevrolet made the bold decision to switch to a mid-engine design. Though controversial at first, this move has proven to be a massive success, pushing the Corvette to an entirely new level of performance and prestige.
One of the most impressive things about the Corvette lineup is how each version feels unique while still staying true to its heritage. Whether it’s the base Stingray with 490 horsepower, the all-wheel-drive hybrid E-Ray, or the track-ready Z06, every Corvette delivers a thrilling driving experience. Each model offers a blend of incredible speed, precision handling, and everyday usability.
Even the standard Stingray is shockingly quick. It can go from 0 to 60 mph in just 2.8 seconds, which is faster than many supercars that cost twice as much. The E-Ray, which adds all-wheel drive and hybrid power, improves on that with an astonishing 2.5-second sprint. These numbers put the Corvette in the same league as some of the world’s best performance cars.
The Z06, the most extreme version of the Corvette, is no longer eligible for the 10Best list due to its price exceeding $110,000. However, that doesn’t take away from the greatness of the entire Corvette lineup. No matter which model you choose, the Corvette remains one of the most exciting and rewarding cars to drive.
Despite its mind-blowing acceleration and sharp handling, the Corvette is surprisingly comfortable. It offers a smooth ride for daily use and remains practical enough for long trips. This balance of power and comfort is what makes it stand out among high-performance sports cars.
Over the years, the price of the Corvette has increased, with the base model now costing over $10,000 more than when the C8 generation was introduced. Even so, it remains one of the best performance bargains on the market, offering supercar-level speed at a fraction of the cost of its competitors.
Whether you’re a racing enthusiast or just looking for an exciting car that you can drive every day, the Corvette is a perfect choice. It continues to redefine what an American sports car can be, making every drive an unforgettable experience.
7) Honda Civic, The Compact Car That Delivers More
Building an affordable compact car that feels premium is no easy task, but Honda has mastered it with the Civic. With decades of experience, Honda has refined the Civic over 11 generations, making it one of the most respected small cars on the market.
One of the most impressive things about the current Civic is the variety of options available. The base model, offered as both a sedan and a hatchback, is designed for budget-conscious buyers. Despite its affordable price, it provides a smooth and polished driving experience, making it feel more expensive than it actually is.
For those looking for better fuel efficiency, the new Civic Hybrid is an excellent choice. Unlike some hybrids that can feel sluggish, this model delivers a balanced combination of performance and efficiency. It offers up to 49 mpg in combined driving while still feeling fun to drive. It’s a hybrid that might even change the minds of those who usually dislike hybrid cars.
The Civic Si is designed for driving enthusiasts. It comes only with a manual transmission, appealing to those who love the experience of shifting gears themselves. Honda continues to show its dedication to performance by offering summer tires as an option, improving the car’s grip and handling for a sportier feel.
At the top of the Civic lineup is the powerful Civic Type R. With 315 horsepower, it is one of the fastest front-wheel-drive cars ever built. Honda’s racing expertise is clear in how the Type R handles, making it an exciting car for anyone who loves performance. It even holds the record for the fastest front-wheel-drive lap in Car and Driver’s Lightning Lap competition.
When the Civic was first introduced in the 1970s, Americans were demanding small, fuel-efficient cars. Today, SUVs dominate the market, but Honda has remained committed to the Civic. Thanks to its balance of affordability, performance, and efficiency, the Civic continues to be one of the best compact cars available.
6) Honda Accord, The Family Sedan That Surprises
The Honda Accord may seem like an ordinary family sedan, but take it on a twisty road, and it will surprise you. It handles corners with ease, making driving enjoyable.
What makes the Accord so special is its ability to balance comfort, practicality, and fun. It has a spacious interior, a smooth ride, great fuel efficiency, and user-friendly features.
Yet, unlike many other mid-size sedans, it also delivers sharp handling that brings joy to drivers. Even the base model, starting at $29,390, offers an engaging drive.
For those looking for more power and efficiency, the hybrid versions are a great choice. In the EX-L hybrid and higher trims, the 1.5-liter turbocharged engine is replaced with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder and two electric motors. This setup produces 204 horsepower while maintaining impressive fuel economy, reaching 39 mpg on the highway. The hybrid version isn’t just fuel-efficient; it’s also quick and responsive.
Inside, the Accord is designed for comfort and practicality. The back seat is spacious enough to impress SUV owners, and the front seats provide excellent visibility and support.
While some interior materials, like the door panels, feel basic, Honda makes up for it with stylish design touches like the honeycomb mesh on the dashboard. Higher trims add leather seats and a 12.3-inch infotainment screen, making the cabin feel more upscale.
Every Accord comes with Honda Sensing, a suite of advanced safety features. This includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. These features enhance both convenience and safety, making the Accord a smart choice for families and commuters alike.
The Accord continues to dominate the mid-size sedan segment, though competition is getting tougher. With its perfect mix of practicality and driving enjoyment, the Accord remains one of the best sedans you can buy.
Also read:10 Best Budget-Friendly Cars Launching Soon With Style, Innovation, and Affordability
5) Tesla Model 3 Long Range: Subtle Upgrades, Big Impact
At first glance, the 2024 Tesla Model 3 Long Range looks very similar to the original version introduced eight years ago. However, while the changes are not dramatic, they add up to a significantly improved vehicle. Tesla has made smart enhancements throughout, making this Model 3 more refined, comfortable, and efficient.
One of the biggest upgrades is the battery. Its capacity has increased from 75.0 to 79.7 kilowatt-hours, which improves the EPA-estimated range from 311 to 363 miles. The rear motor has also gained 65 horsepower, now producing 286 horsepower. As a result, acceleration is quicker, with both the zero-to-60 mph time and quarter-mile time seeing noticeable improvements.
Inside, the Model 3 gets a more premium feel with better materials, improved color coordination, and an more attractive cabin. The exterior remains largely the same, but minor styling tweaks give it a slightly more sophisticated look while keeping the sleek and aerodynamic shape. These changes make the Model 3 feel fresher without altering its well-known design.
Passengers will find the front seats spacious and comfortable, though the rear seats are a bit tight. Still, they offer about the same space as the much larger Porsche Taycan’s back seat. Cargo space is another strength, with a roomy trunk and a useful front trunk (frunk) that can fit an airline carry-on bag.
The real highlight is the driving experience. While it may not match the sporty feel of a BMW M car, the Model 3 offers a smooth, well-controlled ride. The steering is sharp and accurate, and even the brake pedal feels natural, which is rare for electric vehicles. The car feels so effortless to drive that it almost disappears around you, making every journey relaxing.
Another major improvement is noise reduction. Tesla has added soundproofing measures and acoustic glass, making the cabin as quiet as a luxury Mercedes EV. Earlier versions of the Model 3 had more road noise, but now, ride impacts are softer, and freeway driving is peaceful.
One drawback is the lack of physical controls. The removal of stalks and reliance on a touchscreen may take some time to get used to. However, Tesla’s touchscreen is better organized than most, making it relatively easy to operate once you learn its functions.
Perhaps the most surprising aspect of the Model 3 is its price. It starts at $44,130, but with a $7500 federal rebate, the cost drops to $36,630. Some states offer additional rebates, making it an even better deal. Given how well this car performs, it’s surprising that other automakers struggle to sell expensive EVs while losing money.
With its combination of efficiency, comfort, and technology, the 2024 Tesla Model 3 Long Range is better than ever. It may not look dramatically different, but its upgrades make it a smarter and more refined electric car.
4) Porsche 718 Boxster/Cayman, Timeless Thrill Machines
The Porsche 718 Boxster and Cayman offer a thrilling driving experience, whether you choose a coupe or convertible, a four-cylinder or six-cylinder engine, a manual transmission or an automatic. No matter the version, every model delivers excitement and precision. While the Cayman GTS 4.0 with a manual transmission is a favorite, even the base Cayman—priced at around $75,000—feels special.
These Porsches are not just beautiful but also reliable. Unlike some exotic sports cars that are difficult to maintain, the Boxster and Cayman are built to last. Many used models have over 100,000 miles on the odometer, proving their durability. The Boxster, with its drop-top, makes even a short drive feel like an adventure, turning simple errands into long, enjoyable drives.
What truly sets these cars apart is their incredible handling. The steering is so precise that it feels like an extension of the driver’s mind. Every movement of the wheel or press of the pedal results in an immediate, predictable response. Despite their sharp handling, these cars never feel overly sensitive or difficult to control. They are always ready for action.
Performance is another strong point. The base model has a 300-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged engine and can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds. The more powerful Boxster GTS 4.0, equipped with a dual-clutch automatic transmission (PDK), cuts a full second off that time. However, these cars are not built for drag racing. Instead, they shine on twisty roads, where their lightweight bodies, perfect balance, and impressive grip make every turn a joy.
Thanks to their excellent chassis design, these Porsches handle like high-end supercars while remaining easy to drive. Even an average driver can push these cars to their limits without feeling overwhelmed. Most models achieve 1.00 g on a skidpad, meaning they grip the road exceptionally well, making them perfect for curvy backroads.
With electric versions of the Boxster and Cayman on the horizon, some enthusiasts worry about losing the excitement of their internal combustion engines.
However, Porsche has always listened to its customers. When they first replaced the six-cylinder engine with a turbocharged four-cylinder in 2017, fans were disappointed. In response, Porsche brought back the six-cylinder engine in 2021 with the powerful GTS 4.0, proving they care about driver experience.
Even if the future of the Boxster and Cayman is electric, their legacy as incredible sports cars is undeniable. They have provided some of the best driving experiences for years, and whatever comes next, Porsche’s commitment to performance will likely remain unchanged.
3) Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86, Affordable Sports Car Fun
Sports cars are typically expensive and impractical, but the Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 break this trend. Starting at $31,085 for the GR86 and $32,265 for the BRZ, both cars offer excellent driving dynamics at an affordable price. They also provide practical features, such as rear seats and enough cargo space for three carry-on suitcases.
The driving experience is what truly makes the BRZ and GR86 stand out. Both are rear-wheel drive, with a standard six-speed manual transmission that makes driving fun. These cars are light and nimble, with a surprisingly comfortable ride, even on long trips. The standard adaptive cruise control adds to their everyday usability.
The real excitement begins when you hit twisty roads. The 2.4-liter flat-four engine in both cars produces 228 horsepower, which is plenty to push these sub-3000-pound coupes.
The engine reaches its peak torque at 3700 rpm, making the cars feel quick. Manual versions can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.3 seconds. Even with the optional six-speed automatic, the cars are still quick, though it adds a second to the 0-60 time.
For the purest driving experience, the manual transmission is the way to go. It offers better control over the engine’s power band, and the shifter’s short throws make gear changes a delight. Even with the automatic, the cars maintain a responsive chassis and smooth steering, making them fun to drive on winding roads.
What makes the BRZ and GR86 so special is how much fun they offer at an affordable price. For just a bit more than $30,000, you get a true sports-car experience that can also be practical for everyday use.
These cars prove that driving excitement and practicality can go hand in hand, and that sports cars don’t always have to be out of reach financially.
2) Mercedes-Benz E450, The Luxury Sedan That Does It All
The Mercedes-Benz E450 is a luxury sedan that delivers on its promise of comfort and refinement. It provides a smooth and relaxing experience, making every journey a pleasant one. This model marks the first time the new W214 generation of the E-Class has won a spot on Car and Driver’s 10Best list, following its predecessor’s past success.
The E450 is powered by a smooth inline-six engine that offers both power and refinement. This engine is not only quiet but also provides impressive acceleration, reaching 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds. It delivers a seamless mix of comfort and performance, making it ideal for those seeking a luxury ride with sporty capabilities.
When it comes to handling, the E450 stands out. It’s agile enough to corners with ease and provides a level of feedback that rivals other luxury brands, like BMW. On the other hand, when you switch to Comfort mode, it becomes a serene cruiser that glides over roads with minimal effort, even on large 21-inch wheels.
What sets the E450 apart is its fuel efficiency. With a combined 35 mpg on the highway, the E450 can travel over 600 miles between fuel stops, thanks to its 17.4-gallon tank. This makes it perfect for long road trips, offering both performance and practicality without sacrificing comfort or range.
Inside, the cabin exudes luxury with high-quality materials and an impeccable finish. Although some of the tech features can be overwhelming, the leather seats are comfortable and even offer a massage function. The cabin is spacious, and the car’s ambiance is designed to improve the driver’s mood, making it a joy to spend time in.
The E450 excels in every aspect of what a luxury sedan should be. It offers a mix of comfort, sportiness, and efficiency that few can match. Whether you’re cruising down the highway or city streets, the E450 ensures that you arrive relaxed and satisfied, making it the perfect luxury car for any driver.
Also read:10 Most Powerful Supercars Coming This Year Delivering Extreme Performance and Innovation
1) Lucid Air, The Luxury EV That Does It All
The Lucid Air is an impressive luxury EV that offers over 400 miles of EPA range, making it one of the best options on the market. It combines smooth, quiet performance with a sleek, modern design, earning a spot on the 2025 10Best Cars list in both the Pure and Touring trims.
On the outside, the Lucid Air features a clean, aerodynamic design that stands out without being flashy. The exterior is both functional and stylish, with a look that’s distinctive yet refined. The interior, though dominated by screens, is high-tech, offering a well-organized and stylish interface that is easier to use than many other screen-heavy EVs, such as those from Tesla or Rivian.
The cabin of the Lucid Air feels like a true luxury space, with a blend of materials, including cloth, leather, and genuine metal accents. Despite the screen-heavy design, the cabin maintains a sense of quality, offering both comfort and elegance for the driver and passengers.
What makes the Lucid Air stand out is its spacious interior. The back seat provides ample room, more akin to a Mercedes-Benz S-class than a typical luxury sedan. The trunk opening is incredibly wide, making it highly practical, with ample cargo space to easily fit large items, such as a golf bag.
The Lucid Air provides a fantastic driving experience. Even in the base Pure trim with a single-motor rear-wheel-drive setup, the car accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.3 seconds, which is fast for a luxury EV. The Touring trim adds all-wheel drive and 190 extra horsepower, reducing the 0-60 mph time to a mere 3.0 seconds, offering sports car-like acceleration.
Although the Lucid Air isn’t exactly affordable, its $71,400 starting price is a good value. The Pure model offers a range of 420 miles and a powerful 430 horsepower, with an interior nearly identical to the more expensive versions. The Lucid Air delivers a into the future of sports luxury sedans, proving that future is already here.
