[2021 Edition] Luxury & Performance Sports Saloons

Alfa Romeo focused again on small and subtle improvements to the Giulia for MY 2021. Nicer interior fixings, aesthetic updates and additional active-safety tech bring Alfa’s core sedan and SUV in line with the competition.

They sound like small changes, but they do make a huge difference. Alfa Romeo have raised the standard on its luxury and technology components; you can see, feel, and experience them. Nice updates.

Learn More

This starts with the engine, which is upgraded to a twin-turbocharged 2.9L V6 with over 500 hp. It has the handling to match, with substantive upgrades which allow the Quadrifoglio to negotiate turns on the racetrack or back country roads with aplomb.

In fact, everything is turned up a few notches in the sportiness department, with aggressive styling and a fantastic sounding exhaust to boot.

Learn More

Designed to compete with the likes of the absolute best and brightest from BMW M and Mercedes-AMG, the GTA is an exclusive variant of the Giulia of which only 500 units will be produced worldwide.

Based on the Quadrifoglio, the GTA is about as track-ready as any production car can get thanks to its up-tuned 540-horsepower engine, and its insanely aggressive aerodynamic and chassis upgrades.

The GTAm is an even more hardcore version of the car, with Sabelt six-point harnesses, a roll bar taking the place of the rear seats, a more spartan interior, carbon fiber bucket seats, and a redesigned front splitter and rear wing being amongst the standard fare.

Buying one and still not feeling like you’re special enough? Then you should be glad to hear that as part of your purchase, you will receive a full set of Alpinestars racing gear, a GTA-themed Bell racing helmet, a personalized car cover, and an invitation to attend the Alfa Romeo Driving Academy. That’s just awesome.

Learn More

The Ghibli Hybrid is the latest variant to join the range and slots in as the new entry-level model. It utilizes a 48-volt mild hybrid system which assists a 2.0L turbocharged engine, in total delivering up to 325 hp.

Other features unique to the Hybrid model are blue-accented brakes and side air ducts, plus a blue trident logo.

Learn More

The Ghibli offers all the thrills of a Ferrari-built V6 engine that the rest of the lineup provides, but at a lower price. Sure, it may not be as powerful as the others, but it still shares the same 3.0L twin-turbocharged infrastructure with them.

Learn More

We recommend this model if you are a rear-wheel drive fanatic, but want some extra power too. The S version adds about 79 ponies and comes standard with more equipment and interior refinements.

Learn More

The S Q4 basically adds all-wheel drive to the Ghibli S platform. This would be the obvious choice for those who live in more slippery climates, or simply prefer the overall traction benefits of an AWD system.

Learn More

Brand new for the 2021 model year is the Ghibli Trofeo. The Trofeo forgoes the 3.0L V6 used in the rest of the lineup and opts for a much more peppy 3.8L V8. Thankfully, this engine is still built by Ferrari, so the essence of the car remains familiar in the most welcome of ways.

For now, the Trofeo is rear-wheel drive only, and also comes with larger brakes, stickier tires and other go-fast goodies such as a Corsa (race) driving mode, launch control, and a limited-slip rear differential. Trofeo-exclusive badging and a special on-board display are also part of the standard fare.

Learn More

The 2021 Maserati Quattroporte S sets itself apart from its German rivals with a distinctly Italian flair. As the base offering, the Quattroporte S makes use of the same 424 hp 3.0L V6 used by other models in the lineup, and comes as rear-wheel drive.

Learn More

The S Q4 is essentially just the all-wheel drive version of the S. The added traction benefits would be most useful for those who live in regularly inclement weather environments, or just prefer the feeling of having power for all four wheels always at their disposal.

Learn More

For the 2021 model year, the Trofeo replaces the GTS as the top trim in the Quattroporte lineup, which is no longer offered. Like other Trofeo models in the lineup, the Quattroporte utilizes a 3.8L V8 engine which produces 580 hp.

In further compliance with the Trofeo formula, the Quattroporte Trofeo also features the most advanced chassis technology in the lineup, with exclusive features such as Corsa driving mode, launch control, and a limited-slip rear differential.

It also gets its own special appointments, such as Trofeo badging.

Learn More

The Aston Martin Rapide AMR represents the ultimate evolution of a spectacular and versatile sports car. With enhanced performance, sharper dynamics and more powerful design language, Aston Martin has taken Rapide to new and exciting extremes.

Drawing inspiration from the concept car unveiled to great acclaim at the 2017 Geneva Motor Show, the Rapide AMR further enhances this charismatic four-door sports car.

The AMR treatment provides a comprehensive suite of power, chassis and styling upgrades – plus a new interior treatment. Only 210 will be produced.

Learn More

With a graceful yet commanding form, intricate detailing and sharp design lines, the new Flying Spur has an assertive road presence.

Inside, tactile materials and modern craftsmanship combine to create a stylish and tranquil environment.

The Flying Spur benefits from the standard 6.0L twin-turbocharged W12, though like the Bentayga, more engine options will likely become available in the near future.

Learn More

The Flying Spur range gets a new model for 2021. Known as the 2021 Bentley Flying Spur V8, the big change is the inclusion of the 4.0L twin-turbocharged V8 that produces 542 horsepower and 569 lb-ft of torque and uses cylinder deactivation for better fuel economy.

Bentley says that more of its drivers want to hustle their cars and be chauffeured less, so the more efficient and fun V8 is becoming a popular choice these days.

Learn More

The ‘entry-level’ Rolls-Royce has been completely redesigned for the 2021 model year, and will feature its own unique chassis – it had been built upon the BMW 7-series frame until this change.

The 2021 Rolls-Royce Ghost will however, share the same engine used in the new Cullinan SUV - a 6.8L twin-turbocharged V12. The power plant is mated to an 8-speed automatic, which sends power to all four wheels.

It also features all-wheel steering and a 50/50 weight distribution, allowing for smooth and dynamic driving characteristics in spite of its hefty weight. The Ghost will also be available in Extended Wheelbase configuration.

Learn More

The Rolls-Royce Phantom is the status symbol car to rule all status symbol cars. Armed with a new platform for the 2020 model year, the Phantom has also been designed to be fitted with an EV powertrain in the future.

Many say that the Phantom has created its own class of car for itself, and the new iteration looks to extend that trend for the long run; improving the model now, and preparing it for relevancy in the more distant future.

It remains unchanged for the 2021 MY, which is understandable given it was overhauled just a year earlier.

Learn More

In this case, EWB stands for ‘extended wheelbase’, alluding to what could be duly described as a stretched out Phantom. If one were to ever be chauffeured around in a car, this one would probably top most wishlists.

Aside from the glaringly obvious, the EWB also has some unique offerings that can only be seen from inside the car, such as the “private gallery”.

The aforementioned is created by a single panel of glass that spans the entire fascia to house a unique gallery displaying bespoke artwork – private museum of art on wheels, if you will.

Learn More

The 2021 Audi RS 3 is getting a significant refresh for the new model year. Meanwhile, it is still wrapping up its final testing phase at the time of writing - and you know it’s going to be a big deal, as this is all going down at none other than the Nurburgring.

Most of the details have yet to be confirmed officially, but we do know that the new RS 3 will continue using Audi’s iconic 2.5L TFSI turbocharged inline-5 engine. Rumours have it that this will be a re-tuned version of last year’s unit, delivering more power and more torque than before.

In following with the rest of the 2021 A3 lineup changes, the RS 3 is expected to feature other upgrades including a refreshed exterior design, new interior tech and equipment, and additional body color choices.

Learn More

Probably the hottest performance-oriented station wagon on the market right now, the 2021 Audi RS 6 Avant sheds the conservative styling of the car it is based on, but keeps in line with the high-performance estate concept.

Derived from the already-excellent Audi A6 sedan, this souped-up station wagon adds RS-specific bodywork and exclusive go-fast goodies. The Audi RS 6 Avant is a powerful car with a mild-hybrid powertrain – a 48-volt hybrid system performs tasks such as restarting the engine and helps to manage electrical power.

At the heart of the car is the twin-turbocharged 4.0L V8 engine that puts out a whopping 591 hp and 590 lb-ft of torque. The results are impressive, too – the car can sprint from 0-62 mph in just 3.6 seconds, on its way to a top speed of 155 mph. This is the first RS wagon to come to America, and Audi wants to make it count.

Learn More

The RS 7 Sportback is what you get when you take the RS 6 Avant’s engine, then place it in a sleeker Audi Sportback frame. The resulting Audi RS 7 Sportback is an aggressive and beautiful car, with the specs to back up its appearance. This strikingly athletic, yet elegant, four-door sports car is the perfect blend of practicality and performance.

At the heart of the car is the twin-turbocharged 4.0L V8 engine with a mild-hybrid system, that puts out a whopping 591 hp and 590 lb-ft of torque. The results are impressive, too – the car can sprint from 0-62 mph in just 3.6 seconds, on its way to a top speed of 155 mph.

Learn More

BMW has refreshed the M3 sedan and M4 coupe for 2021, and the 6th-gen siblings remain as driver-focused as ever. By not caving in to conventional wisdom - and in doing so, honoring the wishes of its enthusiast fanbase - BMW is offering the base versions of the cars with a 6-speed manual transmission as standard.

By all appearances, the M3/M4 are superior cars to their predecessors in every regard; a bump in power, a better chassis, fresh styling, and more luxuries all coming together in a very formidable looking and high-performing package. They should hit showrooms sometime in early 2021.

Learn More

Besides the notable increase in power and torque over the regular M3/M4, the Competition models will exclusively have the option of adding xDrive all-wheel drive. BMW has promised that the rear-biased system will offer all of the traction benefits, without any drawbacks on the thrill-o-meter. Nice.

Inevitably, the potent power plant was decidedly a better match for the 8-speed M Steptronic transmission. While this may not be the purists’ first choice, the Competition models are better equipped for those who find lap times to be the more pressing matter at hand.

Learn More

Updates for 2021: Nothing in the power department, but the M5 does receive a freshened-up appearance with redesigned front and rear bumpers, new headlights and taillights, and a larger grille. Convenience features such as a larger touchscreen, Android Auto, and cloud-based navigation have also been added.

Where else can you walk into a dealership and buy a sedan that has 600+ horsepower, all-wheel drive traction, four doors and stunning performance both in a straight line and on the race track? This car can really do it all, and more than justifies its 6-figure price tag.

The 2021 BMW M5 is more than just your regular sports sedan. It is an epic sports car and the leader in its class.

Learn More

For us, it’s really a no brainer to spend the wee-bit extra to step up to the M5 Competition. Just a touch more powerful, the M5 Competition comes with 617 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque.

Where you really get your money’s worth is through the stiffer dampers, stiffer anti-roll bars, and a .28” lower ride height. All things considered the M5 Competition is a sharper, stiffer, and an even more performance-oriented version of the M5.

Or, you could just call it a 10.9-second quarter-mile car that you ferry your kids around in. Take your pick.

Learn More

Updates for 2021: BMW has announced that the coupe and convertible versions of the M8 will no longer be available in North America, with the Gran Coupe remaining as the sole body-style option. The Gran Coupe can also be optioned with a new Donington Grey Metallic paint.

The BMW M8 is available in three body configurations - coupe, convertible, and Gran Coupe. It borrows its twin-turbocharged 4.4L V8 engine from the M5, which makes 600 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque.

The M8 also gives drivers the ability to switch between all-wheel drive and 100% rear-wheel drive, making the car both thrilling and well-suited for any situation thrown its way.

Learn More

In keeping with the Competition formula as used in the rest of the lineup, the Competition version of the M8 offers up a more hardcore, track-focused version of the base car.

The M8 Competition also borrows its engine from its M5 counterpart, producing an additional 17 horsepower over the regular M8.

While we don’t expect many M8s to show up to the race track, the Competition package is nevertheless a worth-it option for the more discerning pilots out there.

Learn More

Considered the entry-level car of its kind, the AMG C 43 is still as deeply infused with AMG performance as any other car in the lineup.

From its 385 hp biturbo V6 and quick-shifting 9-speed transmission, to its adaptive air suspension; there is German performance in every nook and cranny of this car.

Best of all, the AMG C 43 wraps it all nicely together in a package which features bold style, rich luxury, and advanced driver assists which help ensure that the car can be enjoyed in all situations.

Learn More

As the best-selling AMG vehicle, the 4-door C 63 features a handcrafted biturbo V8 which produces an ample and usable 469 hp.

Other AMG goodies include adaptive ride control, a limited-slip differential, and quick-shifting 9-speed transmission.

The C 63 is as luxurious as it is quick, making for a car that is as comfortable on the streets as it is capable on the race track. Having 4 doors also makes it a more family friendly and easily justifiable purchase for many - hence it’s popularity.

Learn More

The Mercedes-AMG C 63 S ups the ante over the C 63, with an uprated 503 hp engine that further pushes the performance envelope.

It has more aggressive styling which is enveloped by the latest and most advanced technologies from the AMG parts bin.

This is the car to get if you have eyes only for the C 63, but just wanted a little bit more out of it at the same time.

Learn More

Updates for 2021:The AMG E 53 gets a mild refresh for 2021, which includes a redesigned front and rear bumper, improved infotainment system, more driver assists and an updated powertrain.

Slightly revised for 2021, the E 53 provides the perfect combination of sportiness and luxury. It comes equipped with a modern version of the classic Mercedes-AMG inline-6 - a turbocharged, beltless engine with a 48-volt hybrid system known as “EQ Boost”.

The result is a much more responsive powertrain which is amalgamated with E-Class innovation and AMG inspiration.

Learn More

Updates for 2021: The CLS 53 gets the latest infotainment upgrades from the company and benefits from updated driver assist systems. Such assists include predictive functions, navigation with augmented reality, automated emergency braking and adaptive cruise control.

A twin-scroll turbo, 48-volt hybrid-assist system and electric auxiliary compressor, turn AMG enhancement into groundbreaking advancement in the AMG CLS 53. Air suspension, aggressive aero bodywork and an artful cockpit make it quite a breathtaking package.

Learn More

Updates for 2021:The AMG E 63 S gets a mild refresh for 2021, which includes a redesigned front grille, revised headlights and taillights, improved infotainment system and new 20” wheels.

Brutal acceleration and exceptional handling is what you get in the refreshed 2021 E 63 S. The car features a handcrafted 603 hp engine mated to an AMG performance 4MATIC+, making the E 63 S sedan one of the quickest Mercedes-AMG models you can buy today.

With no shortage of luxuries despite its high-performance demeanor, the E 63 S is just as calm, cool and collected on the streets as it is blisteringly quick on the race track. No compromises with this one here.

Learn More

The AMG S 63 is the high-performance variant of Mercedes-Benz’ top-of-the-line large luxury sedan.

Featuring an adaptive sport suspension and more torque than anything else in the lineup, the car might be a bit of a porker but it is as self-assured and blistering quick as ever.

On point with the rest of the S-class models, its innovations, tech and luxury appointments give it one of the most lavishing experiences you can have on the road.

Learn More

There are few things more alluring to us than a high-performance estate. Inherently, the AMG E 63 Wagon’s design is a beautiful mish-mash of utilitarianism and sporty aggression that make it so wonderful to look at.

With a 603 hp 4.0L biturbo V8 engine mated to an AMG Performance 4MATIC+ system, the E 63 Wagon outperforms anything else in its class.

The distinction between unconventional supercar and unnecessarily quick family car gets pretty blurry here. Not that we mind, though.

Learn More

Updates for 2021: The GT 43 is new for 2021, and becomes the entry-level offering of the AMG GT sedans. It features the least powerful engine of the bunch, but allows for around $10,000 in savings versus the higher-up GT 53.

The first 4-door AMG GT has opened a new chapter in driving passion, and is by all accounts, the four-door variant of Mercedes-Benz’ GT sports cars. Combining the practicality of a saloon with the looks and performance of an AMG GT, the company looks to cater to fanatics of the latter with a more family-friendly alternative.

It features a hybridized turbocharged inline-6 with EQ Boost which is mated to an AMG Performance 4MATIC+ system. Its cabin is specially appointed with a healthy dose of wealth and luxury that can be thoroughly enjoyed by as many as 4 occupants.

Learn More

The first 4-door AMG GT has opened a new chapter in driving passion, and is by all accounts, the four-door variant of Mercedes-Benz’ GT sports cars.

Combining the practicality of a saloon with the looks and performance of an AMG GT, the company looks to cater to fanatics of the latter with a more family-friendly alternative.

It features a hybridized turbocharged inline-6 with EQ Boost, which is mated to an AMG Performance 4MATIC+ system. Its cabin is specially appointed with a healthy dose of wealth and luxury that can be thoroughly enjoyed by as many as 4 occupants.

Learn More

The AMG GT 63 shares the same platform as the lower GT sedan models, but really differentiates itself when it comes to its engine.

Instead of the 3.0L hybrid drivetrain, the GT 63 employs a monstrous 4.0L biturbo V8, making this a prime candidate for performance junkies.

With 577 hp and 590 lb-ft of torque at hand, the GT 63 is as true as a sports sedan can get. An AMG Performance 4MATIC+ brings it all together quite nicely.

Learn More

If you just have to get the very best that this platform can offer, then the AMG GT 63 S is the one you should buy. It squeezes every ounce of the engine, bringing both hp and torque numbers well above the 600-mark.

Brilliant handling. Exquisite appointments. Seductive style. And a handcrafted biturbo V8 sending 630 hp to its four wheels. Direct competition for the Porsche Panamera Turbo, we would reckon.

Learn More

The entry-level Panamera remains rear-wheel drive. It forgoes the 3.0L turbocharged V6 used in the previous year’s model, now opting to use the 2.9L twin-turbocharged V6 from the 4S.

Although the said engine has been detuned to 325 hp - which is 5 hp less than last year’s base model - the car will be much more responsive and provide better dynamics than the outgoing single-turbo setup.

Learn More

The Panamera 4 is the all-wheel drive version of the Panamera, and is otherwise mechanically identical.

Learn More

The Panamera 4 Executive is based on the Panamera 4, and features a lengthened body (0.59”) to provide more comfort for rear passengers. Silver-colored elements on the exterior are also exclusive to the trim.

Learn More

The Panamera 4 Sport Turismo provides the sultry, yet utilitarian wagon body-style. Extra room in the back allows for an impressive storage capacity of up to 49 cubic feet. It also comes standard with a 4+1 seating arrangement for extra versatility.

Learn More

Mechanically, the 4S is essentially the same as last year with a modest gain of just 3 hp in engine output. The 2020 Panamera 4S was a popular pick as it was the lowest variant which offered the excellent 2.9L twin-turbocharged V6, which is now shared with the trims below it.

The 4S however, continues to have a huge power advantage over the aforementioned and should continue to be a sweet spot in the lineup for pragmatists.

Learn More

The Panamera 4S Executive is based on the Panamera 4S, and features a lengthened body (0.59”) to provide more comfort for rear passengers. Silver-colored elements on the exterior are also exclusive to the trim.

Learn More

The Panamera 4S Sport Turismo provides the sultry, yet utilitarian wagon body-style. Extra room in the back allows for an impressive storage capacity of up to 49 cubic feet. It also comes standard with a 4+1 seating arrangement for extra versatility.

Learn More

The Panamera 4 E-Hybrid combines a twin-turbocharged V6 which produces 325 hp and 331 lb-ft of torque, with an E-Hybrid electric motor which adds up to 134 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. It is the entry-level E-Hybrid model in the lineup.

Learn More

The Panamera 4 E-Hybrid Executive is based on the Panamera 4 E-Hybrid, and features a lengthened body (0.59”) to provide more comfort for rear passengers. Silver-colored elements on the exterior are also exclusive to the trim.

Learn More

The Panamera 4 E-Hybrid Sport Turismo provides the sultry, yet utilitarian wagon body-style. Extra room in the back allows for an impressive storage capacity of up to 49 cubic feet. It also comes standard with a 4+1 seating arrangement for extra versatility.

Learn More

The Panamera 4S E-Hybrid combines the 443 hp petrol engine used in the 4S model, with an E-Hybrid electric motor which adds up to 134 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque.

New for 2021, the 4S E-Hybrid could very well become the new sweet spot in the range thanks to its bountiful amounts of power, and the benefits of a hybrid engine. In terms of specs, it essentially replaces the outgoing Turbo.

Learn More

The Panamera 4S E-Hybrid Executive is based on the Panamera 4S E-Hybrid, and features a lengthened body (0.59”) to provide more comfort for rear passengers. Silver-colored elements on the exterior are also exclusive to the trim.

Learn More

The Panamera 4S E-Hybrid Sport Turismo provides the sultry, yet utilitarian wagon body-style. Extra room in the back allows for an impressive storage capacity of up to 49 cubic feet. It also comes standard with a 4+1 seating arrangement for extra versatility.

Learn More

The Panamera GTS is the first foray into V8 territory, with the car now equipped with a more powerful 4.0L twin-turbocharged engine which produces 473 hp.

The GTS model continues to be the quintessential driver’s car among the bunch, thanks to its bias towards a serving of more sporty features. In true “real sports car” fashion, the GTS does not have an Executive trim.

Learn More

The Panamera GTS Sport Turismo provides the sultry, yet utilitarian wagon body-style. Extra room in the back allows for an impressive storage capacity of up to 49 cubic feet. It also comes standard with a 4+1 seating arrangement for extra versatility.

Learn More

New for 2021, is the Panamera Turbo S trim which becomes the fully-petrol-powered direct alternative to the Turbo S E-Hybrid.

In honoring its nomenclature, the Turbo S comes equipped with a 4.0L twin-turbocharged V8 which produces a massive 620 hp and 604 lb-ft of torque.

For those who wanted top-of-the-line without being pigeonholed into getting an E-Hybrid, your wish has been granted.

Learn More

The Panamera Turbo S Executive is based on the Panamera Turbo S and features a lengthened body (0.59”) to provide more comfort for rear passengers. Silver-colored elements on the exterior are also exclusive to the trim.

Learn More

The Panamera Turbo S Sport Turismo provides the sultry, yet utilitarian wagon body-style. Extra room in the back allows for an impressive storage capacity of up to 49 cubic feet. It also comes standard with a 4+1 seating arrangement for extra versatility.

Learn More

The Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid is at the top of the food chain when it comes to the range, and is the only model to feature a hybridized version of the 4.0L twin-turbocharged V8.

On its own, the petrol engine produces 563 hp and 567 lb-ft of torque, with the E-Hybrid electric motor adding up to 134 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque.

Due to the extra weight, it’s actually just a bit slower than the Turbo S from 0-60 mph; of course, it also provides the huge upsides of hybrid technology, don’t forget.

Learn More

The Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid Executive is based on the Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid and features a lengthened body (0.59”) to provide more comfort for rear passengers. Silver-colored elements on the exterior are also exclusive to the trim.

Learn More

The Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid Sport Turismo provides the sultry, yet utilitarian wagon body-style. Extra room in the back allows for an impressive storage capacity of up to 49 cubic feet. It also comes standard with a 4+1 seating arrangement for extra versatility.

Learn More