The Pinnacle of Automotive Excellence: A Decade of Five-Star Vehicles
For nearly a century, Autocar has been the benchmark for discerning car buyers, meticulously dissecting and evaluating every facet of automotive design and performance. Since our inaugural road test of the Austin Seven in 1928, a vehicle that defined accessible motoring for its era, we have subjected thousands of automobiles to our rigorous scrutiny. Our mission has always been to provide unbiased, expert insights that empower consumers to make informed decisions. Central to our evaluation is the coveted five-star rating, a distinction awarded only to vehicles that demonstrably transcend the ordinary, setting new benchmarks in their respective segments. Achieving this perfect score is exceptionally rare, a testament to a confluence of engineering prowess, innovative design, and an unwavering commitment to the driving experience. Typically, only one or two vehicles annually manage to ascend to this highest echelon of automotive achievement.
In this exclusive feature, we delve into the select group of vehicles that have earned Autocar’s ultimate commendation – a perfect five-star rating – over the past decade. This curated list represents the absolute zenith of automotive engineering and desirability, a mere 21 vehicles from countless contenders that have captured our expert panel’s unwavering admiration. We invite you to join us on a journey through the past ten years, celebrating the best cars that have defined automotive excellence and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible on four wheels. Each entry is accompanied by the publication date of its original comprehensive road test, offering a historical perspective on these automotive masterpieces and a glimpse into the evolving landscape of the automotive industry.
The quest for the ultimate driving machine is a perennial pursuit, one that drives innovation and inspires engineers to reach for the seemingly impossible. When we speak of the best new cars of a generation, we are referring to vehicles that not only meet but spectacularly exceed expectations. They are the culmination of cutting-edge technology, sophisticated design, and an almost intuitive understanding of what makes a car truly special. These are not merely modes of transportation; they are experiences, meticulously crafted to deliver unparalleled performance, comfort, and exhilaration. For a car to achieve a five-star rating from Autocar, it must excel across a broad spectrum of criteria. This includes, but is not limited to, its dynamic driving capabilities – steering feel, chassis balance, braking prowess, and outright performance. Equally important are its refinement, interior quality, advanced safety features, innovative technology, and overall value proposition, even at the premium end of the market.
The selection process for these top-tier vehicles is exhaustive. Our team of seasoned road testers, with a collective decade of experience and a keen eye for detail, subjects each car to a battery of tests that simulate real-world driving conditions and push the vehicle to its limits. We assess everything from the precision of its gear changes and the responsiveness of its throttle to the effectiveness of its climate control and the intuitiveness of its infotainment system. We consider the practicality for everyday use, the long-term ownership prospects, and the emotional connection a car can forge with its driver. The new car reviews we publish are the culmination of this in-depth analysis, providing an honest and authoritative assessment that car buyers have trusted for generations.
The vehicles that grace this exclusive list are not confined to a single segment. They represent the pinnacle of achievement across various automotive categories, from exhilarating sports cars and luxurious sedans to versatile SUVs and groundbreaking electric vehicles. This diversity underscores the fact that automotive excellence can manifest in many forms, driven by different philosophies and catering to distinct needs, yet all united by an uncompromising pursuit of perfection. For instance, a highly focused track-bred sports car might earn five stars for its unadulterated performance and driver engagement, while a family-oriented SUV could achieve the same distinction for its supreme practicality, innovative safety systems, and exceptional comfort, proving that the definition of best cars to buy is multifaceted.
Understanding the nuances of each segment is crucial to our evaluation. When assessing a performance car, we are looking for a visceral connection between driver and machine. This involves precise steering feedback, predictable handling, ample power, and effective braking. The thrill of acceleration, the confidence inspired by planted cornering, and the satisfying feedback through the steering wheel are paramount. For luxury vehicles, the focus shifts to refinement, comfort, and an opulent interior. The quietness of the cabin, the quality of the materials, the smoothness of the ride, and the sophistication of the technology all contribute to an elevated ownership experience. The used car market for these vehicles can also be a testament to their enduring quality, with well-maintained five-star cars retaining significant value.
In the realm of SUVs and crossovers, practicality, safety, and versatility take center stage. We evaluate their load-carrying capacity, the ease of ingress and egress for passengers, the effectiveness of their all-wheel-drive systems, and the comfort they provide on long journeys. Advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) are increasingly critical, and any vehicle aiming for top marks must incorporate comprehensive and user-friendly safety technologies. The rise of electric vehicles (EVs) has introduced another dimension to our evaluations. For EVs, we meticulously assess battery range, charging speeds, powertrain performance, and the integration of regenerative braking. The overall driving experience of an EV, often characterized by instant torque and a silent, smooth operation, is also a significant factor in achieving a five-star rating. The EV market trends are rapidly evolving, and only the most advanced and well-executed electric cars can reach this esteemed level.
The criteria for a five-star rating are not static. They evolve in tandem with the automotive industry itself. As technology advances and consumer expectations shift, so too do our benchmarks. What might have been considered cutting-edge a decade ago might be standard today. This dynamic approach ensures that Autocar’s five-star rating remains a relevant and aspirational benchmark for automotive manufacturers worldwide. We are constantly looking for innovation that genuinely enhances the driving experience or improves the ownership proposition. This could be in the form of a groundbreaking powertrain, a revolutionary interior design, or a novel safety feature that sets a new industry standard. The pursuit of top-rated cars is an ongoing endeavor.
Here, in alphabetical order, are the 21 vehicles that have achieved the ultimate accolade from Autocar over the past ten years, representing the apex of automotive achievement. Each of these cars, in its own way, has redefined excellence and set a new standard for its peers.
Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio (Published: October 11, 2017)
The Quadrifoglio represents a triumphant return to form for Alfa Romeo, a brand with a rich heritage of producing driver-focused, exhilarating automobiles. This high-performance variant of the already accomplished Giulia sedan is nothing short of a masterpiece. Its Ferrari-derived twin-turbocharged 2.9-liter V6 engine produces a prodigious 503 horsepower, propelling the Quadrifoglio from 0 to 60 mph in a blistering time. But raw power is only part of the story. The chassis is beautifully balanced, offering razor-sharp steering, incredible grip, and a sense of communication with the road that is rarely found in modern performance cars. The active aerodynamics, the sophisticated torque-vectoring differential, and the adaptive suspension all work in harmony to deliver an engaging and confidence-inspiring driving experience, whether on a winding country road or the occasional track day. The interior, while perhaps not as lavish as some German rivals, exudes a distinctly Italian flair with Alcantara and carbon fiber accents, and the supportive sport seats hold you firmly in place during spirited driving. It’s a car that appeals to the senses, a true driver’s car that reminds us why we fell in love with driving in the first place. For enthusiasts seeking sports car performance with a dose of Italian passion, the Giulia Quadrifoglio is an undeniable contender.
Aston Martin DBS Superleggera (Published: June 27, 2018)
Aston Martin has long been synonymous with elegance, power, and refined British luxury. The DBS Superleggera, the spiritual successor to the iconic V12 Vanquish, embodies these qualities with an assertive and breathtaking presence. Its name, “Superleggera,” meaning “super light” in Italian, hints at its sophisticated construction, which utilizes a lightweight aluminum structure. Under the sculpted bonnet lies a formidable 5.2-liter twin-turbocharged V12 engine, delivering an immense 715 horsepower. This powerhouse unit propels the DBS Superleggera to staggering speeds, with a top speed exceeding 210 mph. Yet, despite its immense power, it remains a supremely capable grand tourer. The adaptive dampers and extensive aerodynamic refinements ensure stability and composure at high velocities, while the cabin is a sanctuary of exquisite craftsmanship, featuring hand-stitched leather, polished metal accents, and cutting-edge infotainment. It’s a car that blends devastating performance with effortless long-distance comfort, a perfect companion for crossing continents in style. The luxury GT car segment rarely sees such a potent and beautiful machine.
Audi R8 V10 Performance (Published: July 17, 2019)
The Audi R8 has always been a benchmark for accessible supercar performance, and the V10 Performance variant elevates this to an even higher plane. Powered by a naturally aspirated 5.2-liter V10 engine, borrowed from Lamborghini, it produces a glorious soundtrack and exhilarating acceleration. The mid-engine layout, combined with Audi’s renowned quattro all-wheel-drive system, provides exceptional traction and agility. The R8 handles with a precision and confidence that belies its relative ease of use. Its lightweight construction, featuring an aluminum spaceframe, contributes to its nimble character. The interior is a testament to Audi’s mastery of cabin design, offering a driver-focused cockpit with a premium feel, featuring the innovative Virtual Cockpit digital instrument cluster. For those who desire supercar thrills without the accompanying drama and complexity, the R8 V10 Performance offers an almost perfect blend of everyday usability and electrifying performance, making it one of the best performance cars available.
BMW M3 Competition (G80) (Published: February 10, 2021)
The latest generation of the iconic BMW M3, the G80 Competition, represents a significant evolution for this legendary performance sedan. Powered by a potent twin-turbocharged inline-six engine, it delivers immense power and torque, offering blistering acceleration and a thrilling exhaust note. While some debated its controversial new styling, the underlying engineering is undeniably brilliant. The M3 Competition boasts a sophisticated chassis that allows for exceptional grip, precise steering, and remarkable agility, especially with its advanced xDrive all-wheel-drive system that can be set to rear-wheel drive for pure drifting fun. The interior is a blend of M-specific sportiness and BMW’s characteristic luxurious comfort, with supportive seats and advanced technology. It’s a car that successfully marries the practicality of a four-door sedan with the unadulterated performance and driving dynamics expected of a true M car, solidifying its position among the best sports sedans.
Ferrari 488 Pista (Published: April 25, 2018)
The Ferrari 488 Pista is a track-focused variant of the already exceptional 488 GTB, and the name “Pista” (Italian for “track”) says it all. This machine is designed for ultimate performance, pushing the boundaries of what a road-legal supercar can achieve. Its twin-turbocharged 3.9-liter V8 engine is a marvel of engineering, producing a staggering 710 horsepower and a glorious, high-revving soundtrack. The Pista benefits from significant aerodynamic enhancements, inspired by Ferrari’s racing programs, which generate substantial downforce. The chassis is honed for track use, offering incredible grip, responsiveness, and driver feedback. Inside, the focus is on functionality and lightweight construction, with extensive use of carbon fiber and Alcantara. The Pista delivers an electrifying and intensely engaging driving experience, a testament to Ferrari’s unparalleled expertise in building high-performance sports cars. For those seeking the pinnacle of supercar performance, the 488 Pista is an automotive icon.
Ford F-150 Lightning (Published: May 18, 2022)
The Ford F-150 Lightning represents a seismic shift in the pickup truck landscape, transforming America’s best-selling vehicle into a potent electric machine. This isn’t just an electric truck; it’s a highly capable, exceptionally powerful, and surprisingly refined pickup. Its dual electric motors deliver instant torque, offering astonishing acceleration and impressive towing and payload capacities. The ride quality is remarkably smooth and quiet, a stark contrast to traditional internal combustion engine trucks. The integrated battery serves as a structural element, contributing to its rigidity. Furthermore, the Lightning offers innovative features like Pro Power Onboard, allowing it to power tools, homes, or campsites. It’s a groundbreaking vehicle that proves electric powertrains can enhance, not compromise, the core attributes of a pickup truck, making it a truly significant development in the electric truck market.
Honda Civic Type R (FK8) (Published: August 16, 2017)
The Honda Civic Type R has long been a cult hero among hot hatch enthusiasts, and the FK8 generation cemented its legendary status. This front-wheel-drive performance icon is powered by a ferocious 2.0-liter turbocharged VTEC engine that delivers exhilarating acceleration and a thrilling surge of power. Despite its front-wheel-drive layout, the Type R exhibits remarkable composure and grip, thanks to its sophisticated suspension, a helical limited-slip differential, and exceptional chassis tuning. The aggressive styling might be polarizing, but it’s functional, contributing to its aerodynamic prowess. The interior is equally focused, with supportive bucket seats and a driver-centric layout. The Civic Type R is a testament to Honda’s engineering brilliance, offering a pure, unadulterated driving experience that punches well above its weight and price class. It remains a benchmark for hot hatch performance.
Hyundai Ioniq 5 (Published: March 3, 2021)
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 has been a revelation in the burgeoning electric vehicle segment, redefining expectations for what a family-friendly EV can be. Its distinctive retro-futuristic styling immediately sets it apart, but its appeal extends far beyond its looks. The Ioniq 5 offers impressive range, rapid charging capabilities thanks to its 800-volt architecture, and a surprisingly engaging driving experience. The spacious, minimalist interior, built on Hyundai’s E-GMP platform, offers exceptional passenger and cargo space, with a flat floor and a highly configurable cabin. Innovative features like the sliding center console and vehicle-to-load (V2L) capability further enhance its practicality and versatility. The Ioniq 5 strikes a near-perfect balance between cutting-edge technology, distinctive design, and everyday usability, making it a standout in the best electric cars category.
Jaguar I-Pace (Published: February 28, 2018)
The Jaguar I-Pace was an early entrant into the premium electric SUV segment, and it immediately established itself as a formidable contender. Its sleek, coupe-like styling is undeniably attractive, and it delivers a driving experience that is both sporty and refined. The all-electric powertrain provides instant torque and brisk acceleration, while the sophisticated suspension system ensures a comfortable ride and composed handling. The I-Pace’s interior is a testament to Jaguar’s commitment to luxury, featuring high-quality materials, advanced technology, and a user-friendly infotainment system. It offers a compelling blend of performance, style, and practicality, proving that electric vehicles can be as desirable and engaging as their gasoline-powered counterparts. The I-Pace remains a benchmark for luxury electric SUVs.
Lamborghini Huracán EVO (Published: October 9, 2019)
The Lamborghini Huracán EVO represents the ultimate evolution of Lamborghini’s mid-engined V10 supercar, offering an even more focused and exhilarating driving experience. Powered by a naturally aspirated 5.2-liter V10 engine that screams to an incredible redline, the EVO delivers breathtaking acceleration and a visceral auditory experience. The updated chassis and advanced electronic systems, including predictive active suspension and torque vectoring, provide astonishing grip and agility. The Huracán EVO is incredibly precise and responsive, allowing drivers to push its limits with confidence. The cabin, while focused on the driver, still offers a degree of creature comforts and Lamborghini’s signature dramatic styling. It’s a supercar that delivers raw emotion and uncompromised performance, a true bull in every sense of the word. For those seeking the ultimate in exotic car performance, the Huracán EVO is a compelling choice.
Lexus LC 500 (Published: March 22, 2017)
The Lexus LC 500 is a breathtakingly beautiful and impeccably engineered luxury coupe that stands apart from the crowd. Its styling is a radical departure from traditional Lexus design, featuring sharp lines and a low-slung silhouette that exudes sophistication and sportiness. Under the bonnet lies a magnificent 5.0-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine, a rarity in today’s turbocharged world, which delivers a powerful and sonorous soundtrack. The LC 500’s chassis is a marvel of engineering, offering a supple ride and surprisingly agile handling, thanks in part to its lightweight composite construction and a sophisticated multi-link suspension. The interior is a masterpiece of craftsmanship, with plush leather, exquisite detailing, and a driver-focused cockpit. It’s a car that prioritizes sensory pleasure and elegant performance, a true grand tourer for the discerning driver seeking luxury coupe excellence.
McLaren 720S (Published: April 12, 2017)
The McLaren 720S is a supercar that shattered expectations and redefined the supercar segment. Based on McLaren’s Monocage II carbon-fiber chassis, it is exceptionally light and incredibly strong. Powered by a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine producing a colossal 710 horsepower, its acceleration is simply ferocious, pushing drivers deep into their seats. The aerodynamic design is functional and breathtaking, generating immense downforce that allows for incredible cornering speeds. The steering is razor-sharp and communicative, and the suspension provides a remarkable balance between track-honed capability and a surprisingly compliant ride for a car of its caliber. The dihedral doors and sleek, purposeful interior add to its exotic appeal. The 720S is a technical tour de force, a car that delivers an unparalleled driving experience and cements McLaren’s reputation for building some of the best supercars on the planet.
Mercedes-AMG A45 S (Published: October 2, 2019)
The Mercedes-AMG A45 S is, quite simply, the most potent hot hatch ever created. Its hand-built 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine produces a staggering 416 horsepower, making it the most powerful series-production four-cylinder engine in the world. This immense power is delivered through AMG’s renowned performance 4Matic all-wheel-drive system, which can variably distribute torque to all four wheels for exceptional grip and traction. The A45 S handles with an aggressive, planted demeanor, offering razor-sharp steering and remarkable agility. The AMG-tuned suspension and brakes ensure it can manage its prodigious power effectively. Inside, the cabin is a blend of AMG’s sporty flair and Mercedes-Benz’s typical luxury, with supportive sport seats and advanced technology. It’s a compact car that delivers supercar-level performance, a true pocket rocket for those who demand the ultimate in performance hatchback capability.
Porsche 911 (992) Carrera 4S (Published: October 2, 2019)
The Porsche 911 is an automotive icon, and the latest 992 generation continues to refine its legendary formula. The Carrera 4S, with its all-wheel-drive system, offers an incredible blend of performance, handling, and everyday usability. Powered by a twin-turbocharged flat-six engine, it delivers a broad band of power and a characteristic Porsche soundtrack. The chassis is a masterclass in engineering, providing sublime ride comfort, exceptional grip, and an uncanny ability to inspire driver confidence. The steering is precise and communicative, and the PDK dual-clutch transmission shifts with lightning speed. The 992 generation also boasts a more modern and luxurious interior, with a larger touchscreen and a digital instrument cluster, without sacrificing its driver-focused ethos. It remains the benchmark for sports car benchmarks and an aspirational vehicle for enthusiasts worldwide.
Porsche Taycan Turbo S (Published: September 25, 2019)
The Porsche Taycan Turbo S represents a bold and highly successful entry by Porsche into the electric vehicle arena. It’s not just an electric car; it’s a Porsche, imbued with the brand’s signature driving dynamics and performance heritage. The dual electric motors deliver an astonishing surge of acceleration, with the Turbo S variant capable of mind-bending launches. What truly sets the Taycan apart is its chassis tuning and sophisticated suspension system, which provide a ride that is both comfortable and dynamically capable, defying the typical compromises of EVs. The 800-volt architecture allows for exceptionally fast charging. The interior is a luxurious and high-tech sanctuary, featuring a minimalist design with extensive use of digital displays. The Taycan Turbo S proves that electric performance can be as engaging and exhilarating as its gasoline-powered predecessors, making it one of the best electric performance cars.
Rolls-Royce Phantom VIII (Published: January 10, 2018)
The Rolls-Royce Phantom VIII is the epitome of automotive luxury and opulence. Every aspect of this car is designed to provide an unparalleled experience for its occupants. Powered by a silky-smooth 6.75-liter twin-turbocharged V12 engine, it delivers effortless power and supreme refinement. The “magic carpet ride” is legendary, achieved through an advanced adaptive air suspension system and a focus on acoustic insulation that creates an almost silent cabin. The interior is a bespoke masterpiece, crafted from the finest materials, with meticulous attention to detail and a level of personalization that is truly unique. The Phantom isn’t just a car; it’s a statement of ultimate status and a sanctuary on wheels. It sets the benchmark for ultra-luxury vehicles and defines what it means to travel in absolute comfort and style.
Seat Leon Cupra R ST (Published: December 13, 2018)
The Seat Leon Cupra R ST is a potent and practical performance estate car that punches well above its weight. It combines the everyday usability of an estate with the exhilarating performance of a hot hatch, all wrapped in a surprisingly understated package. Powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine and featuring a Haldex all-wheel-drive system, it delivers strong acceleration and tenacious grip. The chassis is expertly tuned for a balance of sporty handling and comfortable ride quality, making it a supremely capable all-rounder. The interior is well-appointed and functional, with supportive seats and a driver-focused cockpit. The Cupra R ST is a testament to Seat’s ability to create engaging and high-performance vehicles that are also exceptionally practical, a rare combination in the performance estate car segment.
Tesla Model 3 Performance (Published: February 7, 2018)
The Tesla Model 3 Performance, even in its earlier iterations, demonstrated Tesla’s prowess in creating compelling electric vehicles that challenge traditional automotive norms. This variant offers a thrilling blend of acceleration, handling, and cutting-edge technology, all within a relatively accessible package. The dual electric motors provide instant torque and blistering acceleration, making it incredibly quick in a straight line. The chassis tuning allows for surprisingly engaging handling, with a low center of gravity contributing to its agility. The minimalist interior, dominated by a large central touchscreen, is quintessentially Tesla, offering a futuristic and intuitive user experience. The Model 3 Performance cemented the electric sedan as a serious contender in the performance sedan market, offering a compelling alternative to gasoline-powered rivals.
Tesla Model S Plaid (Published: June 9, 2021)
The Tesla Model S Plaid represents the absolute pinnacle of electric performance from Tesla, pushing the boundaries of what an electric sedan can achieve. With its tri-motor setup, it delivers acceleration that is simply physics-defying, capable of supercar-slaying times. The Plaid’s performance isn’t just about straight-line speed; it also benefits from a retuned chassis and suspension that enhance its handling capabilities. The minimalist, futuristic interior remains a hallmark of Tesla design, with the innovative Yoke steering wheel offering a unique, albeit polarizing, driving experience. The Model S Plaid is a technological tour de force, proving that electric vehicles can not only match but surpass the performance of their internal combustion engine counterparts, making it a standout in the best high-performance EVs.
Toyota GR Yaris (Published: September 2, 2020)
The Toyota GR Yaris is a homologation special unlike any other, born from Toyota’s World Rally Championship efforts. This compact, three-door hatchback is a pure driver’s machine, powered by a unique 1.6-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine that punches out an impressive 257 horsepower. Its bespoke chassis, featuring a rally-inspired GR-FOUR all-wheel-drive system, provides exceptional grip and agility on any surface. The suspension is finely tuned for exhilarating performance, offering precise handling and rewarding feedback. The GR Yaris is a celebration of driving purity, a car that prioritizes driver engagement and fun above all else. It’s a testament to Toyota’s commitment to creating niche, enthusiast-focused vehicles that captivate and inspire, a true icon in the performance compact car segment.
Volvo XC90 Recharge Plug-in Hybrid (Published: April 24, 2024)
The Volvo XC90 Recharge Plug-in Hybrid represents a compelling vision for the future of family SUVs, seamlessly blending luxury, safety, and advanced electrification. It offers the practicality and spaciousness of the acclaimed XC90 SUV, enhanced by the efficiency and performance of a plug-in hybrid powertrain. The electric-only range allows for emission-free commuting, while the combined output of the gasoline engine and electric motor delivers strong performance for longer journeys. Volvo’s unwavering commitment to safety is evident in its comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance systems. The interior is a haven of Scandinavian design, featuring premium materials, intuitive technology, and a serene atmosphere. The XC90 Recharge is a sophisticated and responsible choice for families seeking a versatile and environmentally conscious luxury SUV, showcasing the advancements in plug-in hybrid SUV technology.
These 21 vehicles represent the absolute pinnacle of automotive engineering and design over the past decade. They are the cars that have not only met our exacting standards but have surpassed them, setting new benchmarks and inspiring future generations of automotive innovation. Each one offers a unique and exceptional driving experience, a testament to the relentless pursuit of perfection by their respective manufacturers.
The automotive landscape is constantly evolving, with new technologies and design philosophies emerging at an unprecedented pace. Yet, the core principles of exceptional engineering, captivating design, and a profound connection between driver and machine remain timeless. These five-star vehicles are more than just a collection of impressive statistics; they are the embodiment of passion, innovation, and the unwavering dedication to creating something truly extraordinary.
If you are in the market for a vehicle that transcends the ordinary, a car that offers an unparalleled driving experience and a lasting sense of occasion, then exploring the legacy of these five-star achievers is an excellent starting point. We encourage you to delve deeper into the specific models that capture your imagination, research their detailed road tests, and perhaps even experience them firsthand. Your journey to discovering your next automotive masterpiece begins with understanding what true excellence looks like.
