The Pinnacle of Automotive Excellence: A Decade of Five-Star Journeys
For nearly a century, Autocar has stood as a bastion of automotive insight, meticulously dissecting and evaluating the very best vehicles to grace our roads. Our journey began in 1928 with an in-depth road test of the Austin Seven, a model that then reigned supreme as the United Kingdom’s best-selling automobile. Since that inaugural assessment, our team of seasoned experts has subjected thousands of vehicles to rigorous scrutiny, culminating in a comprehensive scoring system that awards up to five stars for exceptional performance, design, and driver engagement. Achieving a perfect five-star rating is an exceptionally rare feat, a distinction typically bestowed upon no more than one or two vehicles annually.
In this exclusive compilation, we delve into the annals of automotive history to present an extraordinary collection: every vehicle that has earned the coveted five-star designation from Autocar over the past ten years. This elite gathering comprises a mere 21 vehicles, each representing the zenith of automotive engineering and innovation. Join us as we embark on a retrospective journey, celebrating the crème de la crème of the automotive world from the last decade. For each featured automobile, we will also provide the publication date of its original Autocar road test, offering a glimpse into the context and timing of its groundbreaking achievement. Our rigorous methodology ensures that these are not just popular cars, but genuinely outstanding examples of automotive excellence.
The pursuit of perfect car reviews and the identification of vehicles that truly embody luxury car performance has always been at the heart of our editorial mission. In an era where automotive manufacturers are constantly pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, discerning the truly exceptional from the merely good is more critical than ever. Our commitment to providing expert car reviews with unparalleled depth and accuracy allows enthusiasts and potential buyers alike to navigate the complex landscape of modern vehicles with confidence. This collection represents the culmination of countless hours of testing, analysis, and passionate deliberation by our industry-leading specialists, solidifying our reputation for delivering the most authoritative car reviews available.
A Gallery of Automotive Greatness: The Five-Star Pantheon
The vehicles listed below, presented in alphabetical order by manufacturer, represent the pinnacle of automotive achievement over the past ten years. Each has demonstrated an extraordinary blend of performance, refinement, luxury, and innovation, earning it a place in our exclusive five-star club. These are the cars that not only met our demanding criteria but exceeded them, setting new benchmarks for their respective segments and inspiring awe with their engineering prowess.
Aston Martin DB11 (Publication Date: October 19, 2016)
The Aston Martin DB11 arrived as a potent statement of intent, a dramatic evolution of the brand’s iconic grand tourer formula. Its predecessor, the DB9, had served valiantly, but the DB11 ushered in a new era of Aston Martin design and engineering. The exterior styling was a masterclass in fluid dynamics and timeless elegance, featuring the signature grille and a gracefully sculpted silhouette that hinted at the immense power lurking beneath. Inside, the cabin was a sanctuary of handcrafted luxury, with exquisite materials, impeccable fit and finish, and a suite of modern technology seamlessly integrated.
However, the true revelation of the DB11 was its performance. Powered by a new 5.2-litre twin-turbocharged V12 engine, it delivered a formidable 600bhp and 700Nm of torque. This was not just about raw power; it was about the delivery – a sonorous, relentless surge that propelled the DB11 from 0-60mph in a mere 3.9 seconds. The chassis, developed with input from Mercedes-AMG, offered a sublime balance of comfort for long-distance cruising and agility when the road ahead became more engaging. The adaptive dampers and sophisticated electronic aids worked in concert to provide a driving experience that was both thrilling and remarkably composed. The DB11 redefined what a modern grand tourer should be, offering a compelling blend of exotic performance, sophisticated luxury, and undeniable desirability. It was, and remains, a true icon of performance car excellence.
Audi R8 V10 Plus (Publication Date: June 22, 2016)
When it comes to supercar performance and everyday usability, few can rival the Audi R8. The V10 Plus variant represented the zenith of the first-generation R8’s evolution, a potent machine that blurred the lines between track-bred performance and road-going civility. Its naturally aspirated 5.2-litre V10 engine was a masterpiece of engineering, producing a spine-tingling soundtrack and delivering an exhilarating 610bhp. This allowed the R8 V10 Plus to sprint from 0-60mph in an astonishing 3.2 seconds, a figure that still impresses today.
But the R8 was more than just straight-line speed. Its quattro all-wheel-drive system provided exceptional grip and confidence in all conditions, while the lightweight construction, utilizing Audi’s Space Frame technology, contributed to its remarkable agility. The interior was a testament to Audi’s renowned cabin design, offering a driver-focused cockpit with high-quality materials and intuitive controls. The R8 V10 Plus was a car that could effortlessly transition from a comfortable daily driver to a formidable track weapon, offering an unparalleled blend of usability and exotic performance. It demonstrated that performance automotive engineering could also be remarkably practical, a rare and highly commendable achievement.
Bentley Continental GT (Publication Date: January 20, 2018)
The Bentley Continental GT has long been synonymous with opulence and effortless performance, and the second generation, launched in 2018, elevated these attributes to new heights. This wasn’t just a facelift; it was a complete reimagining of the iconic luxury coupe. The exterior design was bolder and more muscular, featuring sharper lines and a more assertive stance, while retaining the quintessential Bentley elegance. The interior, as expected, was a symphony of handcrafted luxury, with hand-stitched leather, real wood veneers, and exquisite detailing that spoke of unparalleled craftsmanship.
Under the bonnet, the new Continental GT was powered by a formidable 6.0-litre twin-turbocharged W12 engine, producing a staggering 626bhp. This powerhouse propelled the grand tourer from 0-60mph in a mere 3.6 seconds, a remarkable feat for a car of its size and weight. The new eight-speed dual-clutch transmission provided seamless and rapid gear changes, enhancing the driving experience. Bentley engineers also focused on refining the chassis, introducing a new dynamic ride system that offered a superb balance between sporting agility and the serene comfort expected of a Bentley. The Continental GT proved that luxury automotive innovation could coexist harmoniously with exhilarating performance, setting a new standard for ultra-luxury car performance.
BMW M3 Competition (G80) (Publication Date: October 13, 2021)
The BMW M3 has a legendary status in the performance sedan segment, and the G80 generation, particularly in its Competition guise, proved to be a formidable contender. Launching with a bold, divisive grille design, the M3 Competition offset any aesthetic controversy with a sheer breadth of dynamic talent. Powered by a potent 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged inline-six engine, it produced an impressive 503bhp. This allowed for searing acceleration, with 0-60mph dispatched in just 3.8 seconds.
What truly set the M3 Competition apart was its sophisticated chassis tuning. BMW’s M division has always been renowned for its ability to create cars that are both incredibly fast and immensely engaging to drive, and the G80 was no exception. The adjustable M Traction Control system, coupled with the optional M xDrive all-wheel-drive, offered drivers unprecedented control over the car’s dynamics, allowing for tailored setups for various driving conditions and preferences. The interior was typical BMW excellence, blending sporty intent with premium comfort and cutting-edge technology. The M3 Competition solidified its position as a benchmark for performance sedan handling and sporty car driving dynamics.
BMW M5 Competition (F90) (Publication Date: September 19, 2018)
The BMW M5 has always been the benchmark for executive sports sedans, and the F90 generation, particularly the Competition model, took this reputation to stratospheric levels. This was the first M5 to feature M xDrive all-wheel-drive, a system that fundamentally transformed its capabilities. While retaining the rear-wheel-drive bias essential for M car DNA, the system allowed for immense traction and, for the first time, a ‘2WD’ mode for pure rear-wheel-drive exhilaration. The heart of the beast was a 4.4-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine, producing a colossal 617bhp in Competition form.
This prodigious power meant that the M5 Competition could rocket from 0-60mph in a blistering 3.1 seconds, a supercar-rivalling figure. Beyond the raw pace, the chassis was a marvel of engineering, offering a superb balance between limousine-like comfort and razor-sharp agility. The active M differential and adaptive suspension ensured that the car remained composed and predictable, even when pushed to its limits. The M5 Competition proved that luxury performance car engineering could deliver both everyday practicality and breathtaking supercar performance, a truly remarkable achievement in executive car technology.
Ferrari 488 Pista (Publication Date: April 18, 2018)
The Ferrari 488 Pista represented a focused, track-oriented evolution of the already exceptional 488 GTB. The name “Pista” itself, meaning “track” in Italian, signaled its intent. Ferrari’s engineers stripped weight, enhanced aerodynamics, and extracted even more power from the already potent 3.9-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine. The result was an astonishing 710bhp, enabling a 0-60mph sprint in a mere 2.8 seconds and a top speed exceeding 211mph.
The Pista’s aerodynamic package was a significant leap forward, incorporating lessons learned from Ferrari’s racing programs, including the use of the S-duct at the front and a highly efficient rear diffuser. These advancements provided significantly increased downforce without unduly compromising drag. The chassis was also retuned for sharper responses and greater driver feedback, making it an incredibly rewarding car to drive on both road and track. The Pista was a visceral, analogue-feeling supercar in an increasingly digital world, offering an unfiltered connection between driver, machine, and road. It stands as a testament to supercar engineering brilliance and the enduring allure of naturally aspirated performance, even with the introduction of forced induction.
Ferrari 812 Superfast (Publication Date: March 22, 2017)
The Ferrari 812 Superfast was a fitting successor to the legendary F12berlinetta, embodying the pinnacle of front-engined V12 Ferrari grand touring. Its name, “Superfast,” was a clear indication of its performance capabilities. The naturally aspirated 6.5-litre V12 engine was an absolute masterpiece, producing a breathtaking 789bhp and a symphonic soundtrack that is increasingly rare in the modern automotive landscape. This power allowed the 812 Superfast to achieve a 0-60mph time of just 2.9 seconds and a top speed in excess of 211mph.
What distinguished the 812 Superfast was its incredible blend of brutal acceleration and sophisticated handling. Ferrari’s introduction of rear-wheel steering, combined with the advanced Side Slip Control system, provided exceptional agility and stability, making such immense power surprisingly manageable. The cabin was a luxurious and driver-focused environment, reflecting Ferrari’s commitment to combining exhilarating performance with premium comfort. The 812 Superfast was a celebration of the classic front-engined V12 Ferrari, a machine that delivered an unadulterated and awe-inspiring driving experience, firmly establishing its place among the best high-performance cars.
Honda Civic Type R (FK8) (Publication Date: April 26, 2017)
The Honda Civic Type R has long been the darling of the hot hatch segment, and the FK8 generation, launched in 2017, further cemented its legendary status. This iteration took the already lauded formula and refined it to near perfection. The aggressive styling, with its prominent rear wing and aggressive aero enhancements, was a bold statement of intent. Underneath the flamboyant exterior lay a highly capable machine.
The 2.0-litre VTEC Turbo engine produced a formidable 306bhp, propelling the Type R from 0-60mph in just 5.7 seconds. However, the Type R’s magic lies not just in its straight-line speed, but in its exceptional chassis dynamics. The multi-link rear suspension, combined with a sophisticated adaptive damping system, provided a level of grip, composure, and driver feedback that was unmatched in its class. The manual gearbox was a joy to operate, offering precise shifts and adding to the tactile engagement. The Civic Type R proved that affordable performance cars could offer a driving experience that rivaled far more expensive machinery, a true benchmark for hot hatch performance and track day cars.
Jaguar F-Type SVR (Publication Date: March 7, 2018)
The Jaguar F-Type SVR represented the ultimate expression of the F-Type’s potent blend of performance, style, and sound. Developed by Jaguar’s Special Vehicle Operations (SVO) division, the SVR was an even more potent and track-focused version of the already exhilarating F-Type R. Under the bonnet sat a supercharged 5.0-litre V8 engine, generating a colossal 575bhp. This allowed the SVR to accelerate from 0-60mph in a mere 3.5 seconds, a figure that still impresses today.
What truly set the SVR apart was its meticulous engineering. Weight was reduced through the use of lightweight materials, and aerodynamic enhancements significantly improved downforce and stability at high speeds. The suspension and braking systems were also uprated to handle the increased performance, offering a level of agility and control that belied the car’s size. The signature V8 exhaust note was also amplified, creating a truly dramatic soundtrack. The F-Type SVR was a visceral, engaging, and undeniably exciting machine, a true testament to performance car design and the enduring appeal of the V8 engine.
Lamborghini Huracán Performante (Publication Date: March 1, 2017)
The Lamborghini Huracán Performante was a dramatic and highly focused evolution of the already sensational Huracán. The “Performante” moniker signaled a significant enhancement in track capability and outright performance. Lamborghini’s engineers stripped out weight, optimized aerodynamics, and extracted even more power from the magnificent naturally aspirated 5.2-litre V10 engine, boosting output to 631bhp. This unleashed a blistering 0-60mph acceleration time of just 2.9 seconds.
A key innovation was Lamborghini’s Aerodinamica Lamborghini Attiva (ALA) system, an active aerodynamics package that could dynamically adjust downforce and drag to optimize performance for different driving conditions. This, combined with a bespoke suspension setup and advanced electronics, made the Performante an incredibly agile and responsive machine, capable of achieving extraordinary lap times. The visceral, high-revving V10 engine delivered an unforgettable soundtrack, making the Performante a true sensory overload. It showcased supercar handling prowess and the ultimate in track-focused automotive engineering.
McLaren 720S (Publication Date: May 10, 2017)
The McLaren 720S, part of the brand’s Super Series, represented a monumental leap forward in supercar performance and technology. Built around a new carbon fibre Monocage II chassis, the 720S was incredibly light yet exceptionally rigid, providing a superb foundation for its blistering performance. The heart of the beast was a 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine producing a potent 710bhp. This allowed for a staggering 0-60mph sprint in just 2.8 seconds and a top speed exceeding 215mph.
McLaren’s engineering prowess was evident in every aspect of the 720S. Its aerodynamic design was incredibly sophisticated, with active aerodynamics playing a crucial role in managing airflow and downforce. The suspension system, featuring Proactive Chassis Control II, offered a remarkable duality, providing a compliant ride for everyday use while delivering razor-sharp handling and immense grip when driven hard. The interior was driver-focused and modern, with innovative digital displays and a sense of occasion. The 720S set new benchmarks for ultimate supercar performance and cutting-edge automotive technology, proving McLaren’s continued dominance in the supercar arena.
Mercedes-AMG C 63 S Coupé (Publication Date: August 2, 2016)
The Mercedes-AMG C 63 S Coupé was a compelling blend of muscular performance and sophisticated luxury, a true grand tourer with a ferocious appetite for acceleration. Powered by AMG’s renowned 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine, it produced a potent 503bhp and a healthy dose of torque. This allowed the coupé to sprint from 0-60mph in a brisk 3.9 seconds.
However, the C 63 S Coupé was more than just its engine. AMG had worked its magic on the chassis, delivering a car that was remarkably capable and engaging to drive, despite its size. The adaptive AMG Ride Control suspension allowed drivers to tailor the car’s ride and handling characteristics to their preference, offering a balance between comfortable cruising and spirited B-road blasting. The interior was a testament to Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to luxury, with high-quality materials, elegant design, and a wealth of technology. This model exemplified luxury coupé performance and the potent combination of performance engine technology with premium refinement.
Mercedes-AMG E 63 S Saloon (W213) (Publication Date: March 7, 2018)
The Mercedes-AMG E 63 S Saloon, in its W213 iteration, represented the pinnacle of performance within the executive saloon segment. It was a car that could effortlessly ferry occupants in supreme comfort one moment and then unleash supercar-rivalling acceleration the next. At its heart was a colossal 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine, producing a formidable 603bhp and a massive 850Nm of torque. This allowed the E 63 S to achieve an astonishing 0-60mph in just 3.4 seconds.
What truly elevated the E 63 S was its sophisticated all-wheel-drive system (AMG Performance 4MATIC+), which offered variable torque distribution and a rear-wheel-drive mode for ultimate driving engagement. The chassis was a masterclass in balancing comfort and athleticism, with adaptive air suspension ensuring a serene ride while providing precise handling when the pace quickened. The interior was a haven of luxury and technology, showcasing Mercedes-Benz’s latest innovations. This saloon demonstrated that performance executive cars could offer an extraordinary blend of practicality, luxury, and outright speed, a true marvel of automotive engineering for professionals.
Porsche 911 Carrera S (992) (Publication Date: January 16, 2019)
The 992 generation Porsche 911 Carrera S arrived with the weight of immense expectation, tasked with evolving an automotive icon. Porsche, as is its wont, delivered a car that was both a faithful continuation of the 911 lineage and a significant step forward. The twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre flat-six engine produced 444bhp, enabling a 0-60mph sprint in just 3.7 seconds (with Sport Chrono Package).
Porsche’s engineers meticulously honed the chassis, enhancing agility and driver feedback. The new PASM Sport suspension, combined with the optional rear-axle steering, provided an unprecedented level of grip and responsiveness, making the Carrera S an incredibly engaging and confidence-inspiring machine on both road and track. The interior maintained the classic 911 layout but was modernized with a larger infotainment screen and advanced digital instrumentation. The 992 Carrera S reaffirmed the 911’s status as the benchmark for sports car performance and driving pleasure, a masterclass in evolutionary automotive design.
Porsche Taycan Turbo S (Publication Date: October 16, 2019)
The Porsche Taycan Turbo S marked Porsche’s audacious entry into the all-electric performance car segment, and it did so with an immediate and profound impact. This was no mere electric car; it was a Porsche, engineered to deliver the driving dynamics and exhilaration synonymous with the brand. The dual-motor all-wheel-drive system produced a colossal 750bhp in overboost, allowing for a mind-bending 0-60mph sprint in just 2.8 seconds.
What was truly remarkable about the Taycan Turbo S was its ability to deliver this blistering performance without compromising on the Porsche driving experience. The sophisticated chassis, featuring active anti-roll bars and rear-wheel steering, provided exceptional handling and composure. Porsche’s expertise in battery management and thermal control ensured sustained performance, even during spirited driving. The interior was a futuristic yet familiar Porsche environment, showcasing advanced technology and premium materials. The Taycan Turbo S proved that electric performance cars could not only compete with their petrol-powered counterparts but also offer a unique and compelling driving experience, setting a new benchmark for performance EV technology.
Range Rover Sport P400e (Publication Date: January 16, 2019)
The Range Rover Sport P400e represented a significant step forward in the evolution of the luxury SUV, introducing a potent plug-in hybrid powertrain to the already capable and opulent Range Rover Sport. This innovative model combined a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine with an electric motor, delivering a combined output of 398bhp. This allowed for respectable performance, with 0-60mph achieved in 6.3 seconds, and crucially, the ability to travel significant distances on electric power alone.
Beyond its powertrain, the P400e retained all the hallmarks of Range Rover excellence: supreme comfort, off-road capability, and sophisticated interior design. The transition between electric and petrol power was seamless, offering a refined and quiet driving experience. The inclusion of plug-in hybrid technology in such a premium package demonstrated a commitment to more sustainable luxury SUV options without compromising the essential qualities that define the Range Rover brand. It showcased sustainable automotive innovation within the premium SUV market.
Seat Leon Cupra R (Publication Date: December 13, 2017)
The Seat Leon Cupra R was a limited-edition, high-performance variant of the already potent Leon Cupra. It represented a focused effort to deliver an even more engaging and track-capable hot hatchback. Powered by a souped-up version of the 2.0-litre turbocharged engine, it produced 306bhp, offering brisk acceleration.
However, the Cupra R’s true brilliance lay in its chassis tuning. It featured unique suspension components, a limited-slip differential, and uprated brakes, all designed to enhance agility and driver feedback. The result was a car that felt incredibly planted and communicative, allowing drivers to exploit its performance with confidence. The Cupra R was a testament to the fact that performance hatchback engineering could deliver an exhilarating driving experience at a more accessible price point, making it a standout in the performance compact car segment.
Skoda Octavia vRS (Publication Date: May 22, 2019)
The Skoda Octavia vRS has long been a champion of the “giant killer” moniker, offering impressive performance and practicality at a highly competitive price point. The 2019 iteration continued this tradition with aplomb. Powered by a potent 2.0-litre turbocharged engine, it produced 241bhp, offering brisk acceleration and a compelling blend of sporty driving dynamics.
The Octavia vRS’s strength lies in its versatility. It could effortlessly serve as a comfortable family car for daily commutes, while also providing ample performance for spirited drives. The chassis was well-balanced, offering a good compromise between ride comfort and sporty handling. The interior was spacious and well-equipped, reflecting Skoda’s focus on practicality and value. The Octavia vRS proved that value performance cars could deliver a satisfying driving experience without breaking the bank, a popular choice for family performance cars.
Tesla Model 3 Performance (Publication Date: August 22, 2018)
The Tesla Model 3 Performance arrived as a disruptive force in the electric vehicle market, offering exhilarating performance in a more accessible package than many of its premium rivals. Its dual-motor all-wheel-drive system delivered a staggering 450bhp, allowing for a mind-bending 0-60mph acceleration time of just 3.4 seconds. This made it one of the fastest sedans on the market, regardless of powertrain.
Beyond its raw acceleration, the Model 3 Performance offered impressive handling dynamics, with a low centre of gravity contributing to its agility. The minimalist interior, dominated by a large central touchscreen, was a hallmark of Tesla’s design philosophy, offering a futuristic and intuitive user experience. The Model 3 Performance demonstrated the immense potential of electric performance sedans and the rapidly advancing capabilities of innovative EV technology, making it a pivotal vehicle in the shift towards electrification.
Volkswagen Golf GTI (Mk8) (Publication Date: March 10, 2021)
The Volkswagen Golf GTI holds an almost mythical status as the definitive hot hatchback. The Mk8 generation, while evolving the formula, retained the essence of what makes the GTI so beloved: a perfect blend of everyday usability, sophisticated driving dynamics, and understated performance. Powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine, it produced 242bhp, offering brisk acceleration and a satisfying engine note.
The GTI’s strength has always been its balanced chassis. The Mk8 continued this tradition, with a refined suspension system that provided excellent body control and engaging handling without sacrificing ride comfort. The interior was modern and tech-focused, featuring advanced digital displays and intuitive controls. The Golf GTI Mk8 proved that the iconic hot hatch could continue to evolve and excel, remaining a benchmark for sporty compact cars and demonstrating the enduring appeal of a well-executed performance hatchback.
Volkswagen Golf R (Mk8) (Publication Date: March 10, 2021)
While the GTI represents the heart of the Golf performance range, the Golf R sits at its apex, offering a more potent and sophisticated experience. The Mk8 Golf R pushed the boundaries further with its enhanced 2.0-litre turbocharged engine, producing 315bhp. This, combined with Volkswagen’s renowned 4Motion all-wheel-drive system, delivered blistering acceleration and exceptional grip.
The Golf R’s chassis was engineered for maximum performance, with a sport-tuned suspension and advanced dynamics control systems ensuring precise handling and outstanding stability. It offered a level of performance that rivaled many sports cars, yet retained the practicality and everyday usability of the Golf. The interior featured sporty accents and advanced technology, befitting its flagship status. The Golf R Mk8 solidified its position as a leading all-wheel-drive performance car and a benchmark for premium hot hatch performance, showcasing Volkswagen’s mastery of the performance hatchback segment.
The Enduring Quest for Automotive Perfection
These 21 vehicles represent the pinnacle of automotive achievement over the past decade, each having earned our highest accolade through exceptional engineering, exhilarating performance, and compelling design. They are the cars that have pushed boundaries, redefined segments, and delivered unforgettable driving experiences. As the automotive landscape continues its rapid evolution, driven by electrification, advanced technology, and ever-increasing consumer expectations, our commitment to identifying and celebrating the very best remains unwavering.
The pursuit of automotive excellence is a continuous journey, and we at Autocar are dedicated to accompanying you every mile of the way. Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast seeking your next dream machine or a discerning buyer looking for reliable and insightful guidance, our comprehensive road tests and expert analyses are here to serve you.
Ready to explore the very best? Visit our comprehensive car reviews section to delve deeper into the specifications and driving impressions of these and many other exceptional vehicles. Discover your next automotive obsession today.
