The Pinnacle of Automotive Excellence: A Decade of Five-Star Cars Revealed
For nearly a century, Autocar has stood as a beacon of automotive authority, meticulously dissecting and evaluating vehicles through our comprehensive road tests. Since our inaugural assessment of the Austin Seven in 1928 – a car that once dominated UK sales charts – we’ve subjected thousands of automobiles to our rigorous scrutiny, assigning each a score out of five. Earning a perfect score is an exceptionally rare feat; typically, only one or two vehicles achieve this distinction annually, a testament to our unyielding standards.
This special feature delves into an exclusive echelon of automotive achievement: the select group of vehicles that have earned the coveted full five stars from Autocar over the past decade. This elite collection comprises a mere 21 vehicles, a testament to the extraordinary engineering, innovation, and driving pleasure that define them. Join us as we embark on a retrospective journey, exploring the very best cars to grace our pages, meticulously examining their strengths, and celebrating the marques that have consistently pushed the boundaries of what’s possible in automotive design and performance. We’ll also be noting the publication date of each original road test, providing context and a glimpse into the automotive landscape at the time of their acclaim.
The quest for the ultimate driving machine is a lifelong pursuit for many, and for automotive enthusiasts, discerning the truly exceptional from the merely good is an art form. In a market saturated with models, each vying for attention with promises of unparalleled performance, cutting-edge technology, and luxurious comfort, identifying vehicles that genuinely transcend the ordinary requires a discerning eye and an unwavering commitment to objective evaluation. This is where Autocar’s decades of experience in car road tests become invaluable. We don’t just drive cars; we live with them, analyze their every facet, and compare them against the highest benchmarks of automotive engineering. This curated list represents not just a collection of highly-rated vehicles, but a definitive statement on what constitutes true automotive excellence in the modern era.
The automotive industry is in a constant state of flux, with manufacturers investing billions in research and development. The pursuit of new car reviews that accurately reflect this dynamic landscape is paramount. In the last ten years, we’ve witnessed a seismic shift towards electrification, advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), and increasingly sophisticated in-car connectivity. Our rigorous testing protocols are designed to keep pace with these advancements, ensuring that our evaluations remain relevant and insightful for today’s discerning car buyer. When we award five stars, it signifies a vehicle that not only excels in traditional metrics like performance and handling but also embraces and masterfully integrates these emerging technologies.
Our methodology for these detailed car reviews goes far beyond a simple test drive. We immerse ourselves in the driving experience, assessing everything from the tactile feedback through the steering wheel to the effectiveness of the infotainment system under real-world conditions. We evaluate ride comfort on a variety of road surfaces, the efficacy of braking systems, and the overall sense of refinement. For electric vehicles, this includes meticulous analysis of charging times, battery range real-world performance versus WLTP figures, and the user experience of associated charging infrastructure. The pursuit of performance car reviews that capture the soul of a machine, alongside the practicalities of everyday usability, is at the heart of what we do.
A Decade of Automotive Icons: The Five-Star Hall of Fame
The cars that have achieved our highest accolade are not simply assembled from parts; they are meticulously crafted expressions of automotive passion and engineering prowess. Each vehicle on this list has demonstrated a remarkable ability to connect with the driver, to inspire confidence, and to deliver an experience that is both exhilarating and deeply satisfying. These are not just modes of transport; they are rolling works of art, engineered to deliver an unparalleled driving sensation.
For those seeking the ultimate in luxury SUV reviews, or the sharpest sports car reviews, this list offers a compelling insight into the vehicles that have set the benchmark. We understand that purchasing a new vehicle is a significant investment, and our commitment is to provide the most trustworthy and comprehensive new car advice available. Our expert reviewers, with their extensive experience and deep understanding of automotive engineering, bring a level of insight that is simply unmatched.
The landscape of the automotive industry is increasingly influenced by global trends, and our reviews reflect this. The demand for electric vehicle reviews that are thorough and unbiased has never been higher. As the transition to sustainable mobility accelerates, understanding the nuances of EV performance, battery technology, and charging infrastructure is crucial. The cars that have achieved five stars in the EV segment represent the vanguard of this revolution, showcasing the immense progress made in electric performance and usability.
Let’s delve into the specific vehicles that have earned their place in this distinguished pantheon, presented in alphabetical order:
Alpine A110 (Originally Tested: August 2018)
The Alpine A110 is a masterclass in lightweight sports car design. Reviving a legendary nameplate, this mid-engined coupé recaptures the spirit of its forebear with an almost defiant commitment to agility and driver engagement. Its relatively modest power output belies a performance envelope that is astonishingly broad, thanks to its exceptional chassis tuning and communicative steering. The A110 doesn’t rely on brute force; instead, it offers a balletic dance with the road, rewarding precise inputs with immediate and intuitive responses. It’s a car that encourages you to explore its limits, not with trepidation, but with joyous abandon. In a world increasingly dominated by powerful but sometimes detached machines, the Alpine A110 stands out as a purist’s delight, proving that pure driving pleasure can still be the ultimate luxury. Its ability to deliver such an engaging experience, even at moderate speeds, solidifies its place as a truly special automobile. For those seeking performance car reviews that prioritize finesse over raw power, the A110 is a compelling case study.
Aston Martin DB11 (Originally Tested: October 2016)
The Aston Martin DB11 represents a significant leap forward for the iconic British marque. It’s a grand tourer in the truest sense, blending breathtaking styling with immense power and a cosseting interior. The growl of its V8 or V12 engine is an intoxicating soundtrack to journeys both long and short. While undeniably a performance machine, the DB11 prioritizes comfort and refinement, making it a supremely capable long-distance companion. Its ride quality is exceptional, absorbing imperfections with a sophisticated composure that few cars can match. The cabin is a sanctuary of fine materials and exquisite craftsmanship, a testament to Aston Martin’s enduring commitment to luxury. It’s a car that makes you feel special from the moment you slide behind the wheel, a sophisticated statement of intent for those who appreciate the finer things in life. When considering luxury car reviews, the DB11 consistently sets a high bar.
Audi RS6 Avant (Originally Tested: January 2020)
The Audi RS6 Avant is a car that defies categorization and expectations. It’s a supercar masquerading as a practical estate car, a potent blend of blistering performance and everyday usability. The sheer pace of the RS6 is astonishing, its potent V8 engine delivering relentless acceleration that can pin you to your seat. Yet, what truly sets it apart is its ability to do so while comfortably accommodating a family and their luggage. The quattro all-wheel-drive system ensures tenacious grip in all conditions, while the sophisticated suspension manages to balance sporty prowess with a compliant ride. It’s a testament to German engineering that such a powerful and engaging vehicle can also be so supremely versatile. For anyone who needs practicality without compromising on driving thrills, the RS6 Avant is an almost irresistible proposition. This vehicle exemplifies the best in performance estate car reviews.
Bentley Continental GT (Originally Tested: February 2018)
The Bentley Continental GT is the epitome of a modern grand tourer. It’s a car that oozes opulence, power, and effortless style. With its iconic silhouette and commanding presence, the Continental GT is instantly recognizable. Underneath its sculpted exterior lies a masterpiece of engineering, powered by a thunderous W12 engine that delivers prodigious torque and a soundtrack to match. The cabin is a haven of bespoke luxury, with the finest leathers, exquisite wood veneers, and meticulous attention to detail. It’s a car designed for effortless high-speed cruising, soaking up miles with a serene composure that is utterly captivating. The Continental GT isn’t just a car; it’s an experience, a statement of enduring quality and refined performance. For discerning buyers seeking high-performance luxury car reviews, the Continental GT remains a benchmark.
BMW M3 Competition (G80) (Originally Tested: March 2021)
The current generation BMW M3 Competition (G80) represents a bold evolution of a legendary performance sedan. While its controversial grille design initially divided opinion, its driving dynamics have silenced the critics. This M3 is a ferociously fast and incredibly capable machine, offering a level of chassis sophistication and engine response that is truly breathtaking. The turbocharged inline-six engine delivers immense power, and the chassis can be honed through various driving modes to suit different moods and conditions. It’s a car that can be docile enough for daily commuting but transforms into a razor-sharp track weapon with a few tweaks. The M3 Competition is a testament to BMW M’s enduring expertise in creating driver-focused performance cars that remain incredibly usable. Its ability to blend everyday practicality with electrifying performance places it at the pinnacle of performance sedan reviews.
BMW M4 Competition (G82) (Originally Tested: March 2021)
Sharing much of its underpinnings with its M3 sibling, the BMW M4 Competition (G82) offers a sleeker, coupé silhouette for those who prefer a sportier aesthetic. The driving experience is equally compelling, with the same potent engine and sophisticated chassis providing a thrilling connection to the road. The M4 Competition delivers a level of agility and feedback that is rare in cars of this performance bracket. It’s a car that begs to be driven enthusiastically, rewarding the driver with precise handling and exhilarating acceleration. The combination of its aggressive styling and its potent performance makes it a formidable contender in the sports coupé segment. This is a prime example of sports coupé reviews that highlight a perfect balance of style and substance.
Ford Puma ST (Originally Tested: December 2019)
The Ford Puma ST is a delightful surprise, proving that exhilarating driving fun doesn’t always come with a supercar price tag. This compact SUV injects a potent dose of performance into a practical and stylish package. Its turbocharged engine delivers punchy acceleration, and the chassis is tuned for maximum engagement, offering sharp steering and impressive body control. The Puma ST manages to be both immensely enjoyable on a twisty road and perfectly usable as a daily driver, thanks to its compact size and surprisingly spacious interior. It’s a car that injects a welcome dose of everyday excitement, demonstrating that practicality and driving pleasure can indeed coexist. For those seeking compact SUV reviews with a serious performance edge, the Puma ST is a standout.
Honda Civic Type R (FK8) (Originally Tested: September 2017)
The Honda Civic Type R (FK8) has cemented its status as a modern performance icon. This front-wheel-drive hot hatch pushes the boundaries of what’s possible, offering incredible grip, razor-sharp handling, and a truly intoxicating driving experience. The turbocharged VTEC engine delivers exhilarating performance, and the chassis is a marvel of engineering, providing a level of driver feedback and agility that is simply outstanding. It’s a car that encourages you to push harder, to explore its considerable limits, and to enjoy every moment behind the wheel. The Type R is more than just a hot hatch; it’s a statement of Honda’s performance engineering prowess and a benchmark for front-wheel-drive dynamics. It remains a top contender in hot hatch reviews.
Hyundai i30 N (Originally Tested: October 2017)
The Hyundai i30 N arrived with a bang, instantly establishing itself as a serious contender in the hot hatch segment. It’s a car built with a clear focus on driver enjoyment, offering a compelling blend of strong performance, sharp handling, and a truly engaging driving experience. The turbocharged engine delivers a healthy dose of power, and the chassis is well-balanced, providing confidence-inspiring grip and feedback. The i30 N’s appeal lies in its accessible performance and its infectious sense of fun, making it a joy to drive on both familiar roads and new challenges. It signaled Hyundai’s serious intent in the performance car market and earned its accolades through sheer competence and driver-focused engineering. This vehicle is a highlight in affordability and performance car reviews.
Jaguar F-Type R Convertible (Originally Tested: June 2015)
The Jaguar F-Type R Convertible is a symphony of performance, style, and sonic drama. It’s a car that ignites the senses, from its breathtaking design to the thunderous roar of its V8 engine. This potent convertible delivers blistering acceleration and exhilarating handling, making every drive an occasion. Yet, it also possesses a level of refinement that allows for comfortable cruising. The F-Type R is a celebration of the sports car ethos, offering a passionate and engaging driving experience that captivates from the first moment. Its combination of head-turning looks and raw performance makes it a truly desirable machine. For fans of convertible sports car reviews, the F-Type R is an exceptional example.
Lamborghini Huracán EVO (Originally Tested: July 2019)
The Lamborghini Huracán EVO is a purebred supercar that delivers an unadulterated dose of Italian passion and performance. Its naturally aspirated V10 engine produces a spine-tingling soundtrack and delivers ferocious acceleration. The all-wheel-drive system ensures immense grip, allowing drivers to exploit its capabilities with confidence. The Huracán EVO is a car that demands attention, both for its outrageous styling and its blistering speed. It’s an experience designed to thrill, to excite, and to push the boundaries of what’s possible in a road-legal machine. For those seeking the ultimate supercar reviews, the Huracán EVO represents the pinnacle of accessible exotic performance.
McLaren 720S (Originally Tested: May 2017)
The McLaren 720S is a technological tour de force and a benchmark for modern supercar performance. Its twin-turbocharged V8 engine delivers prodigious power, and its lightweight carbon-fibre construction contributes to astonishing agility and responsiveness. The 720S offers a driving experience that is both incredibly fast and remarkably intuitive, with steering and chassis feedback that are second to none. It’s a car that blurs the lines between road car and race car, offering a level of performance that few other vehicles can approach. The 720S is a testament to McLaren’s engineering prowess and a formidable competitor in the hypercar arena. For those interested in high-performance supercar reviews, the 720S is a defining machine.
Mercedes-AMG A45 S (Originally Tested: November 2019)
The Mercedes-AMG A45 S redefines the concept of a four-door performance car. It packs a truly astonishing amount of power into a compact hatchback body, featuring the world’s most powerful production four-cylinder engine. The acceleration is brutal, and the all-wheel-drive system provides immense grip, allowing for incredible traction out of corners. Despite its prodigious performance, the A45 S retains a surprising level of everyday usability, making it a formidable and exciting option for those who demand speed and practicality. It’s a testament to AMG’s ability to create incredibly potent and engaging vehicles. This vehicle is a highlight in performance hatchback reviews.
Mercedes-AMG E63 S Estate (Originally Tested: January 2017)
The Mercedes-AMG E63 S Estate is a colossal achievement in automotive engineering, seamlessly blending immense power with the practicality of an estate car. Its twin-turbo V8 engine delivers relentless acceleration, effortlessly propelling this large car with supercar-like pace. The chassis is a marvel, offering a sophisticated balance between sporty dynamism and the comfort expected of a Mercedes-Benz. It’s a vehicle that can devour hundreds of miles with ease, carrying passengers and luggage in opulent comfort, while still offering an exhilarating driving experience when the mood strikes. For those who need space and capability without compromising on performance, the E63 S Estate is an almost perfect solution. This is a prime example of luxury estate car reviews that showcase extreme performance.
Porsche 911 Carrera 4S (992) (Originally Tested: January 2020)
The latest generation Porsche 911 Carrera 4S (992) continues the iconic lineage with evolutionary refinements that enhance its legendary status. It delivers a driving experience that is both incredibly precise and deeply rewarding, with a chassis that communicates every nuance of the road to the driver. The turbocharged flat-six engine provides strong performance, and the all-wheel-drive system offers exceptional traction and confidence. The 992 generation feels more connected, more capable, and more refined than ever before, solidifying its position as the benchmark for sports car engineering. It’s a testament to Porsche’s unwavering commitment to perfecting its iconic model, making it a consistently top-tier choice in sports car reviews.
Porsche Taycan Turbo S (Originally Tested: December 2019)
The Porsche Taycan Turbo S represents a groundbreaking moment in the automotive industry – a fully electric sports car that delivers on the Porsche promise of performance, handling, and desirability. Its dual-motor powertrain provides ferocious acceleration and a sophisticated all-wheel-drive system. The chassis is a masterclass in dynamics, offering a driving experience that is both exhilarating and confidence-inspiring, despite the weight of the battery. The Taycan Turbo S is a compelling vision of the electric future, proving that electrification doesn’t mean compromising on the thrill of driving. For those seeking electric sports car reviews that blend cutting-edge technology with pure driving pleasure, the Taycan is a revelation.
Range Rover Sport (Originally Tested: November 2022)
The latest iteration of the Range Rover Sport has elevated the game for luxury SUVs. It combines formidable off-road capability with on-road refinement and a striking modern design. The cabin is a sanctuary of luxury, featuring premium materials and cutting-edge technology. Performance is strong across the range, with powertrains that offer a blend of power and efficiency. What truly sets this Range Rover Sport apart is its ability to deliver a supremely comfortable and composed ride, whether tackling challenging terrain or cruising on the motorway. It’s a vehicle that exudes confidence and competence in every situation, embodying the pinnacle of luxury SUV reviews for those who demand versatility and sophistication.
Renaultsport Clio RS 18 (Originally Tested: July 2018)
The Renaultsport Clio RS 18 is a brilliant example of a focused, driver-centric hot hatch. While its predecessor may have favored a more raw and engaging experience, the RS 18 offered a potent blend of performance and refinement. Its turbocharged engine delivered spirited acceleration, and the chassis was honed for agility and responsiveness, providing a thoroughly enjoyable driving experience on a variety of roads. It represented a more mature take on the hot hatch formula, proving that fun and practicality could coexist in a well-engineered package. This car showcased the continued excellence of hot hatch reviews from established performance brands.
Tesla Model 3 Performance (Originally Tested: July 2019)
The Tesla Model 3 Performance has been a disruptive force in the automotive market, demonstrating the immense potential of electric vehicles. Its instant torque delivers blistering acceleration, making it one of the quickest sedans available. The chassis has been tuned for a more engaging driving experience, offering sharp handling and impressive grip. The Model 3 Performance combines its electrifying performance with the practical benefits of electric propulsion, such as zero emissions and access to Tesla’s Supercharger network. It’s a car that has redefined expectations for electric performance and accessibility. For comprehensive electric car reviews that highlight groundbreaking performance, the Model 3 Performance is a key subject.
Volkswagen Golf GTI (Mk7.5) (Originally Tested: April 2017)
The Volkswagen Golf GTI (Mk7.5) represents the quintessential hot hatch experience. It strikes an almost perfect balance between sporty performance, everyday usability, and refined comfort. The turbocharged engine provides punchy acceleration, and the chassis is exceptionally well-tuned, offering a dynamic and engaging driving experience without sacrificing ride quality. The GTI is a car that can be driven enthusiastically on a weekend blast or used for the daily commute with equal aplomb. It’s a testament to Volkswagen’s ability to consistently deliver a benchmark hot hatch that appeals to a broad range of drivers. This model remains a strong reference point in performance hatchback reviews.
The Enduring Quest for Automotive Perfection
Over the past decade, these 21 vehicles have not only met our stringent criteria but have surpassed them, earning the highest possible mark. They represent the zenith of automotive engineering, design, and driving pleasure. Whether powered by internal combustion or by electricity, they share a common thread: an unwavering commitment to delivering an exceptional experience for the driver.
At Autocar, our commitment to providing the most accurate and insightful car reviews is unwavering. We understand the passion that drives automotive enthusiasts and the practical considerations that guide everyday car buyers. Our team of seasoned experts dedicates themselves to exploring every facet of a vehicle, ensuring that our readers receive the most comprehensive and trustworthy advice available.
As the automotive landscape continues to evolve at an unprecedented pace, with new technologies and trends emerging constantly, our rigorous testing methodologies will continue to adapt. We are dedicated to staying at the forefront of automotive evaluation, bringing you the insights you need to make informed decisions.
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