The Pinnacle of Automotive Excellence: Celebrating a Decade of Five-Star Vehicles
For nearly a century, Autocar has stood as a beacon of automotive journalism, meticulously dissecting and evaluating the very best vehicles to grace our roads. Since our inaugural road test of the venerable Austin Seven in 1928 – a car that swiftly became the darling of the British market – we have subjected thousands of automobiles to our rigorous, data-driven scrutiny. Our hallmark evaluation system, a scoring scale out of five stars, has become a trusted benchmark for discerning consumers worldwide. Achieving a perfect five-star rating is an exceedingly rare honor, typically bestowed upon no more than one or two vehicles annually, a testament to the exceptionally high bar we set.
This curated collection represents the apex of automotive achievement over the past decade, a compilation of the select few vehicles that have managed to earn our ultimate accolade: a flawless five-star rating. These are not merely good cars; they are automotive exemplars, pushing the boundaries of design, engineering, performance, and driver engagement. Within these pages, we revisit these iconic machines, delving into what made them truly exceptional and providing the original publication date of their comprehensive road tests, offering a chronological perspective on automotive evolution and innovation. Join us as we celebrate the ultimate five-star cars of the last ten years, a testament to what is possible when innovation meets dedication.
The journey to a five-star rating is an arduous one, demanding perfection across a myriad of critical criteria. Our testers, armed with a decade of unparalleled experience and an unwavering commitment to objectivity, scrutinize every facet of a vehicle. This isn’t just about raw power or luxury amenities; it’s about the holistic driving experience. We assess ride comfort and refinement, a crucial element for daily usability and long-distance touring. Handling dynamics are paramount, evaluating steering precision, body control through corners, and the overall sense of connection between driver and machine. Performance figures, while important, are judged within the context of the vehicle’s intended purpose. Braking systems are tested for their consistency, feel, and fade resistance.
Beyond the quantifiable, we delve into the subjective, yet equally vital, aspects. Interior ergonomics are meticulously examined, ensuring controls are intuitive and within easy reach. Material quality and craftsmanship are assessed, contributing to the overall sense of luxury and durability. Infotainment systems are evaluated for their ease of use, responsiveness, and feature set. Safety, of course, is a non-negotiable pillar, with us scrutinizing advanced driver-assistance systems and overall structural integrity. Furthermore, we consider practicality and versatility, evaluating boot space, passenger accommodation, and the everyday usability of the vehicle. The ability of a car to excel in all these areas, to seamlessly blend performance with comfort, technology with intuitive operation, and safety with sheer enjoyment, is what elevates it to the rarefied air of a five-star vehicle.
The landscape of automotive engineering is in constant flux, with technological advancements rapidly reshaping what we expect from our vehicles. Over the past decade, we’ve witnessed the profound impact of electrification, the maturation of semi-autonomous driving aids, and a renewed focus on sustainable materials and manufacturing processes. These best luxury cars and performance sedans that have achieved our highest commendation reflect these evolving trends, often embracing new technologies not as mere novelties, but as integral components that enhance the overall driving experience and contribute to their exceptional status.
The Elite Few: A Decade of Automotive Perfection
To earn a place among this esteemed group is to have achieved a level of automotive mastery that transcends the ordinary. Each of these vehicles, a testament to meticulous engineering and visionary design, represents a pinnacle of its respective segment. They have captivated our expert panel, not just with their headline-grabbing specifications, but with their ability to consistently deliver an outstanding experience across the board. Let us now turn our attention to these remarkable machines, presented in alphabetical order, a testament to their equal standing in the pantheon of automotive excellence.
Audi RS6 Avant (Test Date: October 17, 2018)
The Audi RS6 Avant has long been a benchmark for the super-estate category, and the C8 generation solidified its legendary status. It’s a car that effortlessly blends blistering supercar performance with the everyday practicality of a wagon. Under its muscular bonnet lies a potent twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine, delivering a thunderous 592bhp and 650lb ft of torque. This immense power is channeled through Audi’s renowned quattro all-wheel-drive system, ensuring tenacious grip and astonishing acceleration, propelling the RS6 Avant from 0-60mph in a mere 3.6 seconds.
What truly sets the RS6 Avant apart, however, is its remarkable duality. Despite its prodigious performance, it offers a surprisingly compliant and comfortable ride, thanks to its adaptive air suspension. The interior is a masterclass in Audi’s design language, showcasing premium materials, cutting-edge technology, and an ergonomic layout that prioritizes driver focus. The expansive boot space makes it an ideal companion for family adventures, grocery runs, or even a weekend getaway, proving that uncompromising performance and everyday usability are not mutually exclusive. This makes the Audi RS6 Avant a compelling choice for those seeking performance wagons that redefine the segment.
Bentley Continental GT V8 (Test Date: February 20, 2019)
The Bentley Continental GT V8 represents the epitome of British luxury and performance, a grand tourer that effortlessly combines opulence with exhilarating dynamics. While the W12 engine garners much attention, the V8 variant offers a compelling balance of power, agility, and efficiency. Its 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine produces a robust 542bhp and 568lb ft of torque, providing brisk acceleration and a satisfying soundtrack.
However, the Continental GT V8 is more than just its engine. It’s about the experience. The cabin is a sanctuary of exquisite craftsmanship, adorned with hand-stitched leather, polished veneers, and brushed metal accents. The ride quality is sublime, ironing out imperfections in the road with graceful composure. Yet, when the mood strikes, the V8 bellows to life, and the Continental GT V8 can be hustled with surprising verve through winding roads, its advanced chassis providing confidence-inspiring stability. This is a car designed for comfortable long-distance cruising, but equally capable of delivering thrills when required, a true luxury grand tourer.
BMW M2 Competition (Test Date: October 10, 2018)
The BMW M2 Competition arrived as a spiritual successor to the purest M cars of yesteryear, delivering an unadulterated driving experience that has become increasingly rare. Stripping back the complexity, it focused on what truly matters: driver engagement. Powered by a potent 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged inline-six engine, it churned out 405bhp and 406lb ft of torque, channeled through either a six-speed manual or a rapid dual-clutch transmission.
The magic of the M2 Competition lies in its compact dimensions and meticulously tuned chassis. It feels incredibly agile and communicative, allowing the driver to precisely place the car exactly where they want it. The steering is sharp and direct, the suspension strikes an ideal balance between firmness and compliance, and the brakes offer reassuring stopping power. Inside, the cabin is driver-focused, with supportive M Sport seats and a clean, uncluttered dashboard. For enthusiasts seeking a sports coupe that offers raw, analogue thrills and exceptional handling, the M2 Competition is an undisputed champion.
Ferrari 488 Pista (Test Date: April 11, 2018)
When Ferrari unleashes a Pista variant, the world pays attention. The 488 Pista represents the pinnacle of Ferrari’s V8 supercar engineering, a track-focused machine that is surprisingly usable on the road. Its 3.9-liter twin-turbocharged V8 is an absolute masterpiece, producing a colossal 711bhp and 568lb ft of torque, catapulting the Pista from 0-60mph in a breathtaking 2.8 seconds.
But raw power is only part of the story. The Pista’s aerodynamic enhancements, derived directly from Ferrari’s racing programs, generate immense downforce, allowing it to corner with astonishing grip and stability. The S-duct at the front, the sculpted diffuser, and the prominent rear wing all work in harmony to create a car that feels glued to the asphalt. The driving experience is utterly immersive, with razor-sharp responses, immense mechanical grip, and a symphony of engine notes that would make any enthusiast weep. This is a car that pushes the boundaries of supercar performance, demanding respect and rewarding skill.
Ford Focus RS (Test Date: January 24, 2018)
The Ford Focus RS, in its Mk3 guise, proved that a hot hatch could deliver an extraordinary driving experience, blurring the lines between hot hatch and performance car. Its 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine, boosted by a turbocharger, produced a healthy 345bhp and 347lb ft of torque, sending power to all four wheels via a sophisticated all-wheel-drive system with torque vectoring.
What made the Focus RS so special was its ability to entertain. The ‘drift mode’ might have been a novelty for some, but it highlighted the car’s playful and engaging nature. Beyond the headline-grabbing features, the chassis was brilliantly tuned, offering superb grip, responsive handling, and a surprisingly compliant ride for a car of its performance. The interior was functional and robust, befitting a performance hatch, and the practicality of the Focus platform ensured it remained a viable everyday car. It remains a benchmark for performance hatchbacks, offering immense fun for the money.
Honda Civic Type R (Test Date: August 8, 2017)
The Honda Civic Type R has consistently been a benchmark for the hot hatch segment, and the FK8 generation was no exception. This front-wheel-drive icon delivered a level of performance and handling prowess that defied its layout. Its 2.0-liter VTEC Turbo engine produced a formidable 306bhp and 295lb ft of torque, which, combined with its exceptional chassis tuning, resulted in an incredibly capable and engaging driving machine.
The Type R’s advanced suspension system, including its clever multi-link rear setup, allowed it to put its power down effectively, even out of corners, minimizing torque steer – a common pitfall for potent front-wheel-drive cars. The steering was precise and communicative, the brakes were powerful and consistent, and the overall balance of the chassis was outstanding. The aggressive styling, deeply supportive bucket seats, and a general sense of purpose permeated the interior. It solidified its reputation as a driver’s car and a top contender in the fastest hot hatches market, delivering an exhilarating driving experience that’s hard to beat.
Jaguar F-Type SVR (Test Date: August 2, 2017)
The Jaguar F-Type SVR was the ultimate expression of the F-Type’s performance potential, a V8-powered beast that offered a thrilling blend of power, agility, and dramatic styling. Powered by a supercharged 5.0-liter V8 engine producing a potent 575bhp and 516lb ft of torque, it delivered blistering acceleration and a spine-tingling soundtrack.
However, the SVR wasn’t just about straight-line speed. Jaguar’s engineers endowed it with a chassis that could handle the power with aplomb, offering razor-sharp handling, impressive grip, and a beautifully balanced feel. The all-wheel-drive system, combined with the sophisticated suspension, ensured stability and confidence, even when pushing the limits. The interior, while perhaps not as overtly luxurious as some rivals, was driver-focused and featured supportive seats and premium materials. The F-Type SVR was a masterclass in creating a sports car with V8 power, offering a visceral and exhilarating driving experience that appealed to the senses.
McLaren 720S (Test Date: April 25, 2018)
The McLaren 720S redefined what was possible in the supercar segment, setting new benchmarks for performance, dynamics, and driver engagement. Its revolutionary Monocage II carbon-fiber chassis, coupled with a potent twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine producing 710bhp and 568lb ft of torque, resulted in a car that was astonishingly light, incredibly rigid, and blisteringly fast.
The 720S could sprint from 0-60mph in a mere 2.9 seconds and reach a top speed of over 210mph. But it’s the way it achieves these figures that is truly remarkable. The aerodynamic design, with its distinctive dihedral doors and integrated cooling channels, not only looks stunning but also generates significant downforce. The suspension system, a unique form of Proactive Chassis Control II, provides an uncanny ability to offer both a compliant ride and race-car levels of agility. The driving experience is utterly pure and immersive, offering a level of feedback and connection that is rarely found in such a high-performance machine. It remains a benchmark for modern supercars and a testament to McLaren’s engineering prowess.
Mercedes-AMG A45 S 4Matic+ (Test Date: September 11, 2019)
The Mercedes-AMG A45 S 4Matic+ proved that a compact hatchback could deliver supercar-rivalling performance. Its handcrafted 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, the most powerful production four-cylinder engine in the world at the time of its release, produced a staggering 416bhp and 369lb ft of torque. This immense power was sent to all four wheels via a sophisticated AMG Performance 4Matic+ all-wheel-drive system.
The A45 S could launch from 0-60mph in just 3.9 seconds, a figure that rivals many dedicated sports cars. But its performance wasn’t just about straight-line speed. The chassis was incredibly well-sorted, offering remarkable grip, precise handling, and a level of adjustability that allowed drivers to explore its limits with confidence. The interior mirrored the exterior’s performance focus, with sporty AMG seats, performance-themed displays, and a luxurious feel that belied its hatchback origins. It set a new standard for all-wheel-drive performance cars in its class.
Mercedes-AMG GT R (Test Date: October 4, 2017)
The Mercedes-AMG GT R, affectionately known as “The Beast of the Green Hell,” was the ultimate expression of the AMG GT sports car, honed and perfected on the legendary Nürburgring Nordschleife. Its potent 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine produced 577bhp and 516lb ft of torque, delivering exhilarating acceleration and a ferocious soundtrack.
However, the GT R’s true genius lay in its chassis. It featured active aerodynamics, rear-wheel steering, an adaptive coil-over suspension system, and an aggressive torque-vectoring differential, all meticulously tuned to deliver unparalleled track performance. The result was a car that cornered with astonishing grip and precision, offering a level of driver involvement that was both thrilling and confidence-inspiring. The cabin was a blend of sportiness and luxury, with deeply supportive bucket seats and a driver-focused layout. For those seeking the ultimate track-day car that is also road-legal, the GT R was an exceptional choice.
Porsche 911 Carrera 2.7 RS (Test Date: December 6, 2017)
While not a new car, the inclusion of the Porsche 911 Carrera 2.7 RS in our “past 10 years” retrospective highlights its enduring and timeless appeal. This iconic model, a homologation special built for racing, is a pure driver’s car that continues to inspire awe and admiration. Its air-cooled 2.7-liter flat-six engine produced a spirited 210bhp, a figure that may seem modest by today’s standards, but when combined with the RS’s feather-light weight, minimalist interior, and exceptional chassis dynamics, it delivered a driving experience of unparalleled purity.
The 2.7 RS is renowned for its incredible steering feel, its communicative suspension, and its ability to provide a direct connection between the driver and the road. It’s a car that demands driver input and rewards finesse, offering a visceral and engaging experience that modern cars, with their layers of electronic assistance, often struggle to replicate. Its enduring legacy as one of the greatest classic sports cars is undisputed, and its inclusion serves as a reminder of the fundamental principles of driving pleasure.
Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 (Test Date: January 23, 2019)
The Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 represented a significant moment for the mid-engined Cayman, showcasing its potential as a truly focused driver’s car. It was powered by a naturally aspirated 4.0-liter flat-six engine, borrowed from the 911, producing 414bhp and 309lb ft of torque. This engine, known for its thrilling power delivery and intoxicating soundtrack, was a significant draw for purists.
The GT4’s chassis was a masterpiece of engineering, featuring a highly focused suspension setup, powerful brakes, and precise steering that provided an exceptional level of feedback. The mid-engine layout contributed to a beautifully balanced weight distribution, making the GT4 incredibly agile and responsive through corners. The interior was driver-centric, with supportive sports seats and a functional, no-nonsense design. It proved that a car could deliver immense performance and driving enjoyment without relying solely on sheer horsepower, solidifying its reputation as a benchmark for mid-engined sports cars.
Porsche 718 Spyder (Test Date: January 23, 2019)
Sharing its platform and powertrain with the GT4, the Porsche 718 Spyder offered a similar, yet distinct, open-top driving experience. Its naturally aspirated 4.0-liter flat-six engine delivered 414bhp and 309lb ft of torque, providing exhilarating performance and a glorious exhaust note that was amplified by the open roof.
The Spyder’s chassis was tuned for maximum driver engagement, offering razor-sharp handling, superb balance, and an intimate connection with the road. The absence of a fixed roof amplified the sensory experience, allowing drivers to fully immerse themselves in the engine’s roar and the sensation of open-air motoring. While retaining the GT4’s exceptional mechanical grip and precise steering, the Spyder added an extra layer of visceral thrill. It stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of convertible sports cars that prioritize driver involvement and sensory engagement.
Porsche Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid (Test Date: August 1, 2018)
The Porsche Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid demonstrated that electrification and high performance could coexist in a luxurious and practical package. This potent plug-in hybrid combined a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine with an electric motor, producing a combined output of 671bhp and a colossal 627lb ft of torque.
This hybrid powertrain delivered astonishing acceleration, allowing the Panamera to sprint from 0-60mph in around 3.4 seconds, while also offering the potential for significant fuel efficiency and electric-only driving for shorter commutes. Beyond its powertrain, the Panamera offered a refined and opulent interior, a comfortable ride, and a sophisticated suite of technology. It proved that hybrid sports sedans could be both exhilarating and environmentally conscious, offering a compelling proposition for the discerning buyer.
Radical RXC Turbo 650 (Test Date: November 1, 2017)
The Radical RXC Turbo 650 is not a car for the faint of heart. It’s a road-legal track weapon, a machine built with the primary objective of delivering uncompromised performance. Powered by a Ford EcoBoost V6 engine, boosted by a turbocharger, it produced a staggering 650bhp. This immense power, coupled with its ultra-lightweight construction and advanced aerodynamics, resulted in acceleration and performance figures that rivalled many hypercars.
The RXC Turbo 650’s chassis was a work of art, designed for maximum downforce and grip. It featured a sophisticated suspension system, powerful brakes, and a direct steering rack that provided an unfiltered connection to the road. The interior, while functional, was focused on the driver, with racing-inspired seats and instrumentation. This car represents the extreme end of performance vehicles, showcasing what is possible when the pursuit of speed and handling takes precedence.
Tesla Model 3 Performance (Test Date: August 7, 2019)
The Tesla Model 3 Performance, in its earlier iterations, fundamentally altered perceptions of electric vehicle performance. It demonstrated that electric cars could be not only environmentally friendly but also exhilaratingly fast and engaging to drive. Its dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup delivered instant torque, propelling the Model 3 Performance from 0-60mph in under 3.5 seconds, a feat that few internal combustion engine cars could match.
Beyond its blistering acceleration, the Model 3 Performance offered sharp handling and a surprisingly communicative steering system for an electric vehicle. The minimalist interior, dominated by a large central touchscreen, was a departure from traditional car design, but it proved to be intuitive and functional. The Model 3 Performance became a benchmark for electric performance cars, proving that the future of automotive excitement could be powered by electrons.
Tesla Model S Plaid (Test Date: July 28, 2021)
The Tesla Model S Plaid took electric performance to an entirely new level, shattering existing benchmarks and setting new standards for acceleration. With its tri-motor powertrain, the Plaid delivered an eye-watering 1,020bhp, enabling it to achieve 0-60mph in an astonishing 1.99 seconds. This level of acceleration is simply mind-bending, placing it in a category of its own.
However, the Plaid is more than just a drag strip warrior. Tesla has worked to refine its handling, offering a surprisingly composed and capable chassis for such a powerful machine. The interior, with its controversial yoke steering wheel and minimalist design, reflects Tesla’s futuristic vision. The Model S Plaid is a clear indication of the trajectory of performance EVs, showcasing the immense potential of electric powertrains to deliver unprecedented levels of speed and excitement.
Volkswagen Golf GTI (Test Date: September 19, 2018)
The Volkswagen Golf GTI has been the benchmark for the hot hatch segment for decades, and the Mk7.5 generation continued that illustrious legacy. It represented the perfect balance of performance, practicality, and everyday usability. Its 2.0-liter turbocharged TSI engine produced a lively 245bhp, providing brisk acceleration and a satisfying exhaust note.
The GTI’s chassis was brilliantly tuned, offering a superb blend of sharp handling and a comfortable ride. It was a car that could be enjoyed on a spirited drive through country lanes, yet remain perfectly docile and comfortable for the daily commute. The interior was well-appointed, with supportive seats and intuitive controls, reflecting the Golf’s reputation for quality and refinement. The Golf GTI remains a perennial favorite and a gold standard for practical performance cars, a testament to its enduring formula.
Volkswagen Golf R (Test Date: November 1, 2017)
The Volkswagen Golf R elevated the Golf’s performance credentials, offering a more potent and sophisticated all-wheel-drive experience. Its 2.0-liter turbocharged engine produced a robust 310bhp, and its 4Motion all-wheel-drive system provided exceptional grip and traction in all conditions.
The Golf R offered a thrilling blend of speed and composure. It could accelerate with impressive urgency and handle corners with confidence and stability, making it a formidable all-rounder. The interior was refined and well-equipped, offering a premium feel that belied its hatchback origins. It was a car that could deliver thrilling performance without sacrificing everyday practicality, setting a high bar for all-wheel-drive hot hatches.
Volvo XC90 T8 Twin Engine (Test Date: June 21, 2017)
The Volvo XC90 T8 Twin Engine represented a significant step forward in the luxury SUV segment, proving that a large, practical vehicle could also be incredibly efficient and powerful, thanks to its innovative plug-in hybrid powertrain. Combining a supercharged and turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, it produced a combined output of 400bhp and 472lb ft of torque.
This powertrain delivered strong acceleration and impressive fuel economy, offering the ability to travel on electric power alone for shorter journeys. Beyond its powertrain, the XC90 T8 offered a serene and luxurious cabin, equipped with the latest safety features and a clean, Scandinavian-inspired design. It demonstrated that hybrid luxury SUVs could offer a compelling blend of performance, efficiency, and family-friendly practicality.
The Pursuit of Automotive Excellence
These 21 vehicles, meticulously selected over a decade, represent the very zenith of automotive engineering and design. They are machines that have not only met but exceeded our exacting standards, delivering unforgettable driving experiences and setting new benchmarks within their respective classes. They are a testament to the passion, innovation, and relentless pursuit of perfection that drives the automotive industry forward.
Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast seeking the ultimate driving machine, a discerning buyer looking for unparalleled luxury and performance, or simply someone who appreciates the art of automotive creation, these five-star vehicles offer a compelling glimpse into what is truly possible on four wheels.
Ready to discover the ultimate driving experience? Explore our extensive range of current models and find the vehicle that embodies your passion for automotive excellence. Contact us today to schedule your personal test drive and experience firsthand what makes a car truly exceptional.
