The Bolt proves that electric cars need not apologize for a lack of
driving performance. This distinctive-looking hatchback delivers brisk
acceleration and tight handling, plus a 250-mile electric range at a
mainstream price (when tax incentives are factored in). This pure
electric is built around a 60-kWh battery pack that holds a generous
charge, reducing anxiety that you'll run out of power and be stranded.
The driver sits high up in the Bolt, with a commanding view on a par
with a small SUV. Like most electric cars, the Bolt is strikingly
silent, and road and wind noise are minimal. Controls take a little
getting used to, and at times the ride can become choppy. All told, GM
has performed an impressive feat with the Bolt.
•BMW M5
Half the point of an M5 is the ability to A) run 150 mph all day long
with no pain or undue stress, B) fit car seats or two grown adults in
the back, C) look like you're a respectable citizen, and D) feel like
you're driving around in a quiet supercar. The other half is some
slidey-funky-schnitzel drifts. With the nannies off, this car does
that. It even does tidy little side-slips in all-wheel-drive Sport
mode, with stability control on. You just grab the car by the scruff,
and goofy things happen.
You have to wonder how many customers will take advantage of that. The
truth, of course, is that it barely matters. Cars like this sell on
possibility and fantasy. What normal person finds the limits of a
600-hp sedan with 10.5-inch-wide rear tires? What normal person even
goes looking? If you track an F90 M5, you are a rare dude. If you
track the car and slide it enough to catch bugs on the side windows,
you're even more rare. And good for you. Good for BMW for making this
happen.
•Audi A4
The A4 shines by being sporty, luxurious, and polished in a segment
populated by superstars. It's very satisfying to drive, with nimble,
secure handling helped by its minimal body roll and responsive
steering. The controlled ride is on the firm side, but proves steady
and absorbent.
The powerful turbocharged four-cylinder engine accelerates with gusto,
proving ever-eager to make a quick getaway, yet doesn't hurt your
wallet at the pump. Slide into the A4's cabin and you're greeted by a
high-quality interior. The controls have a precise feel and a clean,
modern look. The front seats are firm yet comfy, but the rear seat
space is tight. The A4 is an exquisite sedan for discriminating
buyers. It comes with standard forward-collision warning and
city-speed automatic emergency braking.
•Bugatti Chiron
Here's how badly the Bugatti Chiron messes with your mind: I just did
217mph on an ordinary Portuguese highway in daytime traffic and came
home slightly disappointed that I didn't go faster.
We could have done 236mph if we'd waited until the next off-ramp, no
question. That's the car's electronically limited top speed in its
normal driving setup. Insert a second key down between the driver's
seat and the rocker panel and the ride height and spoilers reconfigure
themselves in a low drag mode that subs stability for the ability to
slip through the air, and the speed limiter is raised to 261mph
(420kmh).
What'll it do without that limiter? We'll have to wait until next
year to find out when Bugatti conducts a maximum attack run at VW's
Ehra Lessien test track, but at least 280mph seems likely.
•Porsche Panamera Turbo
How it drives is the most striking part of the Panamera. You expect it
to be good. You don't expect it to be this good.
This Panamera Turbo, which has no hybrid tech on board whatsoever,
weighs in at approximately 4,400 pounds. That is not light. It's the
sort of weight that'd make you expect the Panamera to be relaxing on
the highway but floaty and unresponsive in corners.
As expected, it is relaxing on the highway; the ideal GT car. You can
gobble up hours at high speed effortlessly. A road with corners is
where you need to drive it, because it masks its heft so well that it
defies physics. This is something Porsche knows how to hide thanks to
supercar projects like the 918 Spyder.
•Toyota Camry
The Camry has earned its reputation as a competent, well-rounded
family sedan. With its recent redesign, Toyota added more styling
flair and handling acumen. And Toyota elevated its fuel economy to 32
mpg overall with the base four-cylinder, matching its smaller Corolla
cousin. The hybrid LE version returned an impressive 47 mpg overall in
CR tests, almost reaching rarefied Toyota Prius territory.
This Camry offers spry handling, an absorbent ride, and a quiet
cabin. (The SE and XSE allow buyers to add sportiness at the expense
of quiet and comfort.) Forward-collision warning, automatic emergency
braking, and lane-departure warning are standard, and blind-spot
detection and rear cross-traffic warning are available.
•Chevrolet Impala
The Impala continues to be a gem among large cars, providing a driving
experience that's more akin to a luxury car. The spacious, quiet cabin
is well-dressed with high-quality materials and trim. The controls are
refreshingly intuitive and easy to use, including the feature-rich
infotainment system.
The roomy, supportive front seats coddle occupants, and the rear
seats are generously proportioned. Its smooth ride is a true standout,
soaking up bumps like a sponge. Handling is commendable, as proven in
our accident-avoidance maneuver and when confronting corners at our
track. We favor the V6 engine for its abundant, smooth power. Those in
the market would be wise to consider an Impala
•Toyota Sienna
Minivans are the ultimate solution for moving people and their stuff.
In this segment, the Sienna offers the best all-around package. Its
long list of pluses includes a comfortable ride and an energetic
powertrain that returns respectable fuel economy.
And those looking for an all-wheel-drive minivan quickly realize the
Sienna is the only option out there. The cabin is spacious, with
convenient folding seats and available seating for eight. The interior
is nicely furnished, with top versions dressed with upscale materials
and trim accents.
The fancy top-line Limited versions offer second-row lounge seating,
complete with footrests. Its strong reliability track record and
abundant standard advanced safety features make the Sienna a savvy
choice.
•BMW X3
Redesigned for 2018, the X3 tops its class. This luxury compact SUV
combines driving enjoyment, comfort, slick technology, and utility in
one appealing package. Its power is smooth and nearly immediate when
you press the gas pedal, even with the base turbo four-cylinder
engine. (Drivers can step up to the 355-hp M40i for truly exhilarating
performance.) Sharp, sporty handling encourages drivers to seek curvy
roads. The firm suspension makes you feel safe and confident, and yet
the X3 does a good job soaking up ruts and bumps. Because it's
extremely quiet, richly appointed, and offers supportive seats and an
easy-to-use infotainment system, the X3 is certain to delight those
looking for an upscale SUV that is polished and fun to drive.
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