The Best Cars of 2010
Written by
The best cars offer the most enjoyment per dollar, whether you’re a speed demon in a supercar or a family hauler that combines SUV-like space with car-like handling. They accelerate quickly, handle well, keep occupants safe and comfortable and get great fuel economy. They’re also fun to drive, with power and torque to burn and a look that commands respect.
The latest generation of the Porsche 911 is a case in point. It’s faster, handles better and keeps occupants safer than the car it replaces. It’s a benchmark vehicle that’s objectively improved in every way, making it one of the most exciting cars to drive.
These days, SUVs and crossovers (hell, arguably even pickup trucks) have become the preferred ride for many buyers, but a few hundred miles behind the wheel of a fancy sedan like the new S-Class will remind you why they remain so appealing. This model feels nimble, responsive and refined, with a driving experience that can’t be replicated in any truck or SUV.
This model is the best car you can buy for $25,000, and it’s also one of the most fun to drive on the road or in a racetrack. It delivers the same power, torque and performance as a BMW M5 for a fraction of the price. It may not be as refined as a BMW X5, but it’s more than capable enough for most drivers and will still make you the envy of anyone at your local autocross.
If you’re interested in electric vehicles, the Hyundai Ioniq 6 is a great choice. It’s one of the most spacious and fuel-efficient EVs you can buy, and its battery has enough range to cover most commutes without needing a recharge. It’s also reasonably priced and has a design that won’t offend any sensibilities.
The Volvo V60 Recharge sounds like parental driving nirvana, and it is. But it’s also fast, roomy and offers a ton of all-wheel drive capability for off-road enthusiasts. It can even do a 20-mile, round-trip commute with no gas at all.
This is the most recent ranking, but BMW’s win suggests that you don’t have to spend big bucks to get a top-rated car. It ranked higher than Subaru, Mini and Lexus this year, and it earned high scores in our evaluations of braking, handling, comfort, safety, reliability and owner satisfaction. Consumer Reports also analyzed the data from 32 brands to rank them in order of their quality score, with BMW earning the top spot for the first time. Land Rover finished last.