Car and Driver magazine released its annual "10 Best Cars" list online today, rating its favorite driving experiences based on models available for sale in 2010 and less than $80,000. Michigan Auto provided an analysis:
Among the winners, only two Detroit-bred entries made the cut: the Ford Fusion Hybrid and the Cadillac CTS, which C&D describes as "the best American car ever made."
1. Audi S4: "The S4 stands apart from the A4 line like a narc at a Dead show, and the rest of our staff can’t deny its capabilities. They outnumber the purists."
2. BMW 3-Series/M3: "It’s the extraordinary precision and response of the perfectly weighted steering, the smooth predictability of the unwavering chassis, the optional sport seats that adjust and embrace in all the right ways, the slick six-speed manual transmissions, the firm but never harsh ride."
3. Cadillac CTS/CTS-V: "The CTS manages to blend refinement, driving dynamics, comfort, and performance in a refreshing, even exhilarating, way that satisfies enthusiast drivers and luxury seekers simultaneously."
4. Ford Fusion Hybrid: "The Fusion’s hybrid powertrain is so refined and compact that it’s almost not there, but the driver-selectable, power-tracking gauge display gives the game away: It is Donkey Kong addictive, challenging its driver to run on electric power all the way up to a possible 47 mph."
5. Honda Accord: "The automatic transmission never draws attention to itself, body motions are subdued, the cockpit is hushed, the steering discreetly reveals what the front tires are up to, and the 2.4-liter four is not only quick to rev but also offers the idle quality of a six."
6. Honda Fit: "Everything about this Honda feels like a more expensive, more upmarket vehicle."
7. Mazda MX-5 Miata: "Agility and affordability. In a sports car, it’s a combination that’s tough to beat."
8. Mazda 3/Mazdaspeed 3: "Getting behind the wheel of the Mazda 3 is a comforting reminder that there is a fun-to-drive car for every economic stratum."
9. Porsche Boxster/Cayman: "There are a lot of words beginning with the letter “P” that can describe the mechanically identical Boxster and Cayman—poised and profitable leap to mind— but we think the most appropriate one is perfect."
10. Volkswagen GTI: "It’s relatively inexpensive and supremely practical yet is an immensely entertaining vehicle that’s as happy meandering around mall parking lots as it is being flogged along a great back road."