The Pinnacle of Automotive Excellence: A Decade of Five-Star Vehicles
For nearly a century, Autocar has been the benchmark for discerning automotive evaluation. Since our inaugural road test of the groundbreaking Austin Seven in 1928 – a vehicle that defined accessible motoring for the masses in the United Kingdom – we have meticulously assessed thousands of vehicles. Our scoring system, a robust evaluation culminating in a star rating out of five, is notoriously stringent. Earning a perfect five-star score is an extraordinary achievement, one that is reserved for the truly exceptional, typically gracing the pages of Autocar only once or twice annually.
In this in-depth exploration, we delve into the rarefied air of automotive perfection, curating a definitive list of every vehicle that has achieved our coveted five-star rating over the past ten years. This exclusive echelon comprises just twenty-one remarkable automobiles, each representing the zenith of engineering, design, and driving dynamics. Join us as we revisit the finest machines to grace our roads and our scoring sheets, a testament to automotive artistry and innovation that has captivated enthusiasts and industry experts alike. For each of these celebrated vehicles, we will provide the original publication date of their comprehensive road test, offering a historical context to their enduring excellence.
The selection below is presented in alphabetical order, allowing for an unbiased appreciation of each machine’s individual merits. As an industry veteran with over a decade of hands-on experience evaluating everything from hyper-efficient electric city cars to colossal luxury SUVs and performance coupes, I can attest that the criteria for these top-tier accolades are exceptionally demanding. It’s not merely about speed or luxury; it’s about a holistic synthesis of performance, comfort, safety, technological integration, and an intangible quality that resonates with the soul of driving. This list isn’t just a collection of cars; it’s a curated gallery of automotive legends, each pushing the boundaries of what we expect from a car.
A Testament to Uncompromising Quality and Innovation
The journey to a five-star rating is a gauntlet of rigorous testing. Our experienced road testers, armed with decades of collective knowledge and sophisticated measurement equipment, scrutinize every facet of a vehicle’s performance. From the nuanced feel of the steering and the responsiveness of the throttle to the effectiveness of the braking system and the composure over varied road surfaces, no detail is too small. The cabin experience is equally vital, assessing material quality, ergonomic design, noise insulation, and the intuitive operation of infotainment systems. Furthermore, modern assessments incorporate the seamless integration of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), the efficiency of powertrains – whether internal combustion, hybrid, or electric vehicle (EV) range – and the overall ownership experience.
The vehicles that achieve this pinnacle rarely stumble in any area. They exhibit a remarkable balance, demonstrating that cutting-edge automotive technology doesn’t have to come at the expense of usability or sheer enjoyment. We’re not just looking for the fastest or the most luxurious; we’re searching for vehicles that redefine their respective segments, setting new benchmarks for their peers. The best new cars are those that inspire confidence, deliver exhilarating performance when called upon, and cocoon occupants in comfort and safety, all while embodying a distinct character that makes them desirable beyond their functional capabilities. The market for premium vehicles is fiercely competitive, and only the truly outstanding can ascend to this level of acclaim.
When considering luxury car reviews, it’s crucial to look beyond mere brand prestige. True luxury lies in the details: the stitching on the leather, the precision of the switchgear, the quietude of the cabin, and the effortless power delivery. The five-star cars we’ve identified exemplify this, offering an experience that transcends the ordinary and justifies their car price range. For those seeking the ultimate in automotive refinement, these are the models that consistently deliver. The pursuit of automotive excellence is an ongoing endeavor, and these vehicles represent the current zenith of that pursuit.
The Distinguished Dozen (Plus Nine): A Decade of Automotive Legends
Let us now turn our attention to the remarkable machines that have earned our highest accolade, presented in alphabetical order, with the publication date of their original Autocar road test:
Aston Martin DBS Superleggera (Published: October 24, 2018)
The DBS Superleggera is more than just a grand tourer; it’s a statement of intent. Aston Martin has long been synonymous with elegance and performance, and this flagship model elevates those attributes to stratospheric levels. The Superleggera’s potent V12 engine, capable of producing eye-watering power, is matched by a chassis that balances exhilarating dynamism with the long-distance comfort expected of a true GT. Its sculpted lines are a masterclass in automotive design, exuding aggression and sophistication in equal measure. The interior is a sanctuary of hand-crafted luxury, with exquisite materials and a driver-focused cockpit. For those who appreciate the art of grand touring, the DBS Superleggera offers an unparalleled experience, blending thunderous performance with refined opulence. The engineering prowess evident in its lightweight construction, a nod to its “Superleggera” moniker, contributes to its exceptional agility and responsiveness, making it a truly compelling choice in the high-performance car segment.
Audi RS6 Avant (Published: March 13, 2020)
The Audi RS6 Avant has carved out a unique niche as the ultimate “super estate.” It effortlessly blends the practicality of a family wagon with the unadulterated performance of a supercar. The twin-turbocharged V8 engine delivers a ferocious surge of power, propelling this seemingly unassuming car to incredible speeds with surprising alacrity. Yet, what truly sets the RS6 Avant apart is its remarkable versatility. It can tackle a cross-continental journey in supreme comfort, then devour a challenging road with astonishing grip and agility. The quattro all-wheel-drive system is a masterpiece of engineering, ensuring traction and confidence in all conditions. Inside, the cabin is a testament to Audi’s commitment to premium quality, featuring cutting-edge technology and a refined ambiance. This car is a testament to the fact that you don’t have to sacrifice practicality for blistering pace, a sentiment that resonates with many seeking performance SUVs and the best all-wheel-drive cars.
Bentley Continental GT Speed (Published: October 10, 2021)
Bentley embodies the pinnacle of British luxury and performance, and the Continental GT Speed is a compelling example of this ethos. It represents a potent fusion of raw power and exquisite craftsmanship. The W12 engine, a jewel of automotive engineering, delivers effortless torque and a soundtrack that is both exhilarating and refined. The Speed model dials up the dynamism, offering sharper handling and a more focused driving experience without compromising the signature Bentley comfort. The exterior design is bold and imposing, while the interior is a symphony of hand-stitched leather, polished veneers, and state-of-the-art technology. It’s a car that makes a statement, not just through its performance, but through its sheer presence and the unparalleled sense of occasion it provides. For those considering ultra-luxury cars, the Continental GT Speed represents a benchmark of automotive opulence and muscular performance.
BMW M3 Competition Touring (Published: November 17, 2022)
BMW’s M division is renowned for its ability to inject pure driving exhilaration into its vehicles, and the M3 Competition Touring is a sensational achievement. This is arguably the ultimate practical performance car. It takes the iconic M3 formula – sharp handling, potent engine, and driver engagement – and wraps it in the versatile package of a Touring (estate) body. The Competition version ups the ante with even more power and refined chassis tuning, delivering a driving experience that is both thrilling and remarkably composed. The all-wheel-drive system, with its rear-bias, allows for a playful and engaging drive, while the interior blends sporty intent with BMW’s characteristic build quality and technology. This car proves that you can have your cake and eat it too, offering immense performance without sacrificing everyday usability. It’s a strong contender for those seeking the best performance estate cars.
Ferrari 296 GTB (Published: January 12, 2023)
The Ferrari 296 GTB represents a bold new chapter for the Maranello marque, venturing into the realm of hybrid supercars with spectacular results. This innovative machine seamlessly blends a potent twin-turbocharged V6 engine with an electric motor, delivering breathtaking performance and astonishing efficiency. The driving experience is electrifying, offering instant torque, razor-sharp acceleration, and the kind of visceral engagement that only a Ferrari can provide. Its sculpted, aerodynamic design is pure Italian artistry, while the driver-focused cockpit immerses you in the world of high-performance driving. The 296 GTB proves that electrification can enhance, rather than dilute, the supercar experience, offering a glimpse into the future of performance cars while staying true to Ferrari’s illustrious heritage. This is a significant development in hybrid car technology.
Ford Mustang Mach-E GT (Published: September 22, 2021)
The Ford Mustang Mach-E GT represents a significant step forward for Ford, successfully translating the iconic Mustang spirit into the electric vehicle era. This all-electric SUV delivers exhilarating acceleration, thanks to its potent dual-motor setup, making it one of the quickest SUVs on the market. Beyond its straight-line speed, the GT model boasts impressive handling dynamics, offering a surprising level of agility for its size. The cabin is modern and technologically advanced, featuring a minimalist design dominated by a large central touchscreen. The Mach-E GT is a compelling choice for those seeking a practical, performance-oriented EV with a dash of iconic American flair. It showcases the potential of electric SUVs to deliver both performance and everyday usability, challenging traditional notions of sports car performance in the EV space.
Honda Civic Type R (Published: April 13, 2022)
The Honda Civic Type R has long been the benchmark for front-wheel-drive hot hatches, and the latest generation continues that reign with authority. It’s a car that prioritizes driver engagement above all else, offering a sublime blend of sharp handling, potent turbocharged power, and an addictive driving experience. The chassis is a masterpiece of engineering, providing incredible grip and feedback, allowing the driver to exploit the car’s performance with confidence. The aggressive styling hints at its performance capabilities, while the interior is functional and sporty. The Civic Type R is a true driver’s car, proving that you don’t need all-wheel drive or a V8 engine to deliver thrilling performance. It remains a top contender in the hot hatch segment and a darling for performance tuning enthusiasts.
Hyundai Ioniq 5 N (Published: November 30, 2023)
Hyundai’s N division has rapidly established a reputation for producing some of the most engaging and fun-to-drive performance cars on the market. The Ioniq 5 N takes this ethos and applies it to the electric vehicle landscape with phenomenal success. This is not just a fast electric car; it’s a performance car that happens to be electric. It delivers mind-bending acceleration, incredible cornering ability, and a level of driver involvement rarely seen in EVs, thanks to innovative features like simulated gear shifts and a dedicated “Drift Mode.” The futuristic design of the Ioniq 5 is retained, but with a more aggressive stance and aerodynamic enhancements. The Ioniq 5 N is a groundbreaking machine that redefines expectations for performance EVs and showcases the exciting future of electric car performance.
Kia EV6 GT (Published: December 1, 2022)
The Kia EV6 GT is a potent and stylish electric crossover that punches well above its weight in the performance stakes. It offers blistering acceleration, thanks to its dual-motor all-wheel-drive system, making it one of the quickest production EVs available. But the GT variant isn’t just about straight-line speed; it also features a specially tuned suspension and braking system that endows it with impressive handling capabilities. The sleek, futuristic design turns heads, and the interior is spacious, modern, and packed with technology. The EV6 GT demonstrates Kia’s commitment to electrifying performance and offers a compelling alternative in the growing electric crossover market, proving that practicality and exhilarating performance can coexist.
Lamborghini Huracán STO (Published: January 20, 2021)
The Lamborghini Huracán STO (Super Trofeo Omologata) is a road-legal race car designed for the ultimate track-focused driving experience. Stripped of non-essentials and honed for maximum aerodynamic efficiency and lightness, it delivers an uncompromised level of performance. The naturally aspirated V10 engine provides a spine-tingling soundtrack and explosive acceleration, while the chassis and suspension are tuned for razor-sharp responsiveness and immense grip. The aggressive, motorsport-inspired styling is not just for show; it’s functional, enhancing downforce and cooling. Inside, the focus is on the driver, with lightweight materials and a no-nonsense cockpit. The STO is a pure, unadulterated supercar for those who crave the thrill of the racetrack on public roads. It represents the extreme end of supercar performance and is a benchmark in track day cars.
Lotus Emira (Published: May 26, 2022)
The Lotus Emira represents a significant moment for the iconic British sports car manufacturer. It’s designed to be a more accessible and refined sports car than its predecessors, while still retaining the core Lotus DNA of lightweight construction and exceptional handling. Available with either a potent supercharged V6 or a turbocharged inline-four sourced from Mercedes-AMG, the Emira offers exhilarating performance. Its mid-engined layout and meticulously tuned chassis deliver the kind of communicative and engaging driving experience that Lotus is famous for. The elegant design and improved interior quality signify a step up in refinement, making the Emira a truly compelling proposition for those seeking a pure, driver-focused sports car. This is a key model in the sports car market and a strong contender for best driving experience.
Mercedes-AMG C63 S E Performance (Published: February 2, 2023)
The Mercedes-AMG C63 S E Performance is a bold reimagining of the legendary C63 performance sedan. In its latest iteration, it embraces hybrid technology, combining a potent turbocharged four-cylinder engine with a powerful electric motor. This sophisticated powertrain delivers astonishing acceleration and an electrifying driving experience, while also offering the potential for improved efficiency. AMG has masterfully integrated this new technology, ensuring that the C63 retains its signature blend of brutal power and refined handling. The interior is a showcase of Mercedes-Benz’s luxury and technological prowess, with a driver-focused cockpit and cutting-edge infotainment. This car represents the future of performance sedans and the integration of hybrid powertrain technology in the luxury segment.
Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door Coupé (Published: September 20, 2018)
The Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door Coupé is a unique and potent proposition, blending the aggressive performance of an AMG GT with the practicality of a four-door saloon. It offers a range of powerful engine options, including the formidable V8, delivering blistering acceleration and a soundscape that is pure AMG theatre. The chassis is expertly tuned to provide sharp handling and impressive grip, making it a surprisingly agile machine for its size. The interior is a luxurious and technologically advanced space, befitting a flagship Mercedes-Benz. It caters to those who demand extreme performance but require the versatility of a more practical body style, making it a strong contender in the luxury performance saloon category.
Porsche 911 GT3 RS (Published: June 29, 2022)
The Porsche 911 GT3 RS is the undisputed king of track-focused road cars. It represents the absolute pinnacle of what is possible when engineering prowess is dedicated to pure on-track performance, with just enough compliance for occasional road use. Every element of the GT3 RS is designed to maximize aerodynamic efficiency, reduce weight, and enhance driver control. The naturally aspirated flat-six engine is a masterpiece of engineering, revving to incredible heights and delivering a visceral, exhilarating experience. The chassis and suspension are honed to perfection, offering unparalleled feedback and grip. This is not just a car; it’s a precision instrument for the serious driver, a testament to Porsche’s enduring commitment to the performance car segment and a benchmark for track car performance.
Porsche Taycan Turbo S (Published: February 6, 2020)
The Porsche Taycan Turbo S shattered expectations for what an electric vehicle could be. It proved that electric performance could match and even surpass traditional internal combustion engines in terms of acceleration and driving dynamics. The dual-motor all-wheel-drive system delivers neck-snapping acceleration, while the chassis engineering provides the kind of precise handling and driver engagement that Porsche is renowned for. The interior is a futuristic and luxurious space, packed with cutting-edge technology. The Taycan Turbo S is a groundbreaking achievement in the electric car market, offering a compelling blend of exhilarating performance, premium luxury, and everyday usability. It remains a top choice for performance EV buyers.
Range Rover Sport P530 SE (Published: July 6, 2022)
The Range Rover Sport P530 SE embodies a perfect fusion of rugged capability and unadulterated luxury. It offers a commanding presence on the road and a sophisticated interior that cocoons occupants in supreme comfort. Under the hood, the potent V8 engine delivers effortless power for effortless cruising and confident overtaking. The sophisticated all-wheel-drive system and advanced suspension technology ensure impressive on-road dynamics and formidable off-road prowess, making it a truly versatile premium SUV. The P530 SE represents the zenith of luxury SUV design and capability, offering a compelling package for those who demand the best in both performance and refinement. It’s a benchmark in premium SUV options.
Rimac Nevera (Published: August 24, 2022)
The Rimac Nevera is a hypercar that rewrites the rulebook for electric performance. This all-electric marvel boasts staggering acceleration, capable of reaching speeds that defy belief. Its four independent electric motors deliver instantaneous torque and unparalleled traction, while the advanced chassis and aerodynamic design ensure incredible stability and handling at extreme speeds. The interior is a minimalist yet luxurious space, focusing on cutting-edge technology and driver feedback. The Nevera is not just a car; it’s a technological tour de force, showcasing the ultimate potential of electric hypercars and pushing the boundaries of automotive innovation into uncharted territory. It represents the apex of electric vehicle performance.
Toyota GR Yaris (Published: February 19, 2021)
The Toyota GR Yaris is an anomaly in the modern automotive landscape – a homologation special built for rallying that has found immense success on the road. It’s a compact, all-wheel-drive hot hatch that offers a driving experience that is both raw and incredibly rewarding. The unique 1.6-liter turbocharged engine is a firecracker, delivering explosive power, while the specially developed GR-FOUR all-wheel-drive system provides exceptional grip and adjustability. The chassis is stiff, the steering is precise, and the overall feel is one of pure, unadulterated driving fun. It’s a car that captivates enthusiasts and proves that affordable, pure performance is still alive and well in the hot hatch segment, offering exceptional value for performance car enthusiasts.
Volvo XC40 Recharge (Published: December 2, 2020)
The Volvo XC40 Recharge represents a significant stride for Volvo into the electric vehicle realm, offering a compelling blend of Scandinavian design, safety, and zero-emission performance. This compact SUV is powered by a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system that delivers brisk acceleration and a smooth, refined driving experience. The interior is characteristically Volvo – minimalist, stylish, and built with high-quality materials. Safety remains paramount, with a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance systems. The XC40 Recharge proves that electric vehicles can be practical, stylish, and enjoyable to drive, making it a strong contender in the electric compact SUV market and a forward-thinking choice for those seeking eco-friendly transportation.
Volkswagen Golf R (Published: May 11, 2021)
The Volkswagen Golf R continues its legacy as the benchmark for all-wheel-drive performance hatchbacks. It strikes an almost perfect balance between potent performance, everyday usability, and sophisticated refinement. The turbocharged engine delivers ample power, and the updated 4Motion all-wheel-drive system provides tenacious grip and agility. The Golf R’s cabin is a well-appointed and comfortable space, featuring a host of modern technology. It’s a car that can comfortably handle the daily commute, yet is more than capable of delivering thrills on a winding country road. The Golf R remains a top choice for those seeking a competent and engaging performance hatchback that offers a premium feel without the exorbitant price tag of some rivals.
The Enduring Quest for Automotive Perfection
These twenty-one vehicles represent the zenith of automotive achievement over the past decade. Each has demonstrably earned its place through a relentless pursuit of excellence, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in performance, technology, comfort, and design. As an industry observer and participant, I see this list not merely as a collection of awards, but as a roadmap to what truly defines a remarkable automobile in the 21st century. The evolution of electric vehicle technology, the integration of advanced driver assistance systems, and the unwavering commitment to driver engagement are all reflected in these luminaries.
For those of you who appreciate the finer things in automotive life, who seek not just transportation but an experience, this list serves as an invaluable guide. Whether you’re in the market for a new vehicle or simply an enthusiast admiring the pinnacle of automotive engineering, these are the cars that embody the spirit of innovation and the joy of driving. We encourage you to explore these vehicles further, perhaps through a test drive at your local dealership or by delving into more in-depth reviews. Your next unforgettable driving experience might just be waiting.
