Updates for 2021: In celebration of its Quattro system’s 40th Anniversary, Audi is releasing a special edition of the TT RS for 2021, which will feature an exclusive livery and unique aerodynamic enhancements.

The TT RS gets Audi’s 2.5-liter TFSI engine with direct injection, a DOHC 4-valve design with Audi valvelift variable timing and lift, and an intercooled and turbocharged forced induction system. Power peaks at 394 hp and maximum torque of 354 lb-ft. Its inline 5-cylinder configuration and 1-2-4-5-3 firing order makes it sing with a distinctive voice. As always the TT RS looks the business and is full of tech.

Learn More

Updates for 2021: To commemorate its (late) release, the RS 5 will be available in both “Ascari” and “Black” launch editions. Each edition will offer their own unique styling upgrades, paint schemes and are limited to just a few hundred units worldwide.

The 2021 Audi RS5 is the highest performance and most boldly designed Audi 5 model. Good straight-line speed thanks to its twin-turbo V6 and sharp cornering thanks to its proven AWD system. Despite its intimidating appearance and track-ready hardware, the mighty Audi coupe is actually a comfortable daily driver - a great daily executive car with enough poke.

Learn More

The BMW M2 Competition overwhelms with performance, agility and precision. The concentrated power of the new 410 horsepower twin-turbocharged inline 6 engine, is a permanent guarantee of high performance with the aspiration to set new records.

A genuine M car and a sweet drive for the enthusiast, the M2 Competition still comes with enough practicality to be a great daily driver. Performance is strong, with a sprint from standstill to 60 mph taking just 4 seconds.

Learn More

The BMW M2 CS is a step above the M2 Competition. It offers more power and improved performance. Oh, and a manual transmission. Automotive purists, rejoice! The M2 CS comes with tweaked looks, too, and is the smallest super-fast sports car from BMW right now.

The car features a twin-turbocharged inline-6 engine that makes 444 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque. That’s a bump of 34 additional horsepower over the M2 Competition.

Learn More

BMW has refreshed the M3 sedan and M4 coupe for 2021. 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.

The M3/M4 are superior cars to their predecessors in every regard; a bump in power, a better chassis, fresh styling (questionable??), and more luxuries come together in a very formidable performing car.

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. Inevitably, the power plant was decidedly a better match for the 8-speed M Steptronic transmission.

Learn More

Probably the most exciting thing to come from the American brand (and perhaps the entire automotive industry) for a long time, is the new mid-engine 2021 Chevrolet Corvette. It is expected to go full-tilt against the likes of exotic brands such as Porsche, Ferrari and McLaren on the performance front, while costing substantially less to own.

On paper, its bang-for-buck looks untouchable and potentially industry-disrupting. It comes in both coupe and convertible body styles.

Learn More

The all-new range-topping Camaro ZL1 is slated to come with the Corvette’s Z06 engine as standard, providing phenomenal value when it comes to performance. The track-oriented 1LE package adds performance upgrades that allow the car to handle and brake more capably.

It is available in coupe and convertible body styles. The ZL1 has a 650-hp supercharged V-8 behind its aggressive-looking front end, and it offers drivers their choice of an engaging manual transmission or a lightning-quick automatic.

Learn More

Step up to the Camaro ZL1 and you’re looking at a 650-horsepower supercharged version, making it the most powerful Camaro available. With it, 0-60 mph can arrive in a blistering 3.5 seconds. The all-new range-topping Camaro ZL1 is slated to come with the Corvette’s Z06 engine as standard, providing phenomenal value when it comes to performance.

The track-oriented 1LE package adds performance upgrades that allow the car to handle and brake more capably. It is available in coupe and convertible body styles.

Learn More

In 2019, the completely redesigned BMW Z4 returned to the lineup after a four year absence. Unchanged for 2021, the new BMW Z4 is better than ever; and with its exceptional performance comes incredible value.

At its base price, the car costs considerably less than its main rival – the Porsche Boxster – but still offers the same puristic roadster thrills. Choose this, or the new Supra (same car, basically) and can’t go wrong.

Learn More

For 2021, the Shelby GT500 is the only Mustang remaining of its kind, with the GT350 and GT350R now discontinued. It’s the most muscular of all of Ford’s vehicles, but it’s not just fast in a straight line with its 760 hp supercharged V8.

The chassis is a marvel too, allowing the car to make its way around the twists and bends of the most technical race tracks without issue - almost as quick as a Porsche 911 GT3 RS, in fact. There’s a whole lot to love about the GT500.

Learn More

For the 2021 MY, Honda is introducing a new Limited Edition Civic Type R of which only 1,000 will be produced. The Limited Edition comes exclusively in Honda’s iconic Phoenix Yellow paint, and will also feature a gloss-black roof, side mirrors and hood scoop.

It also features some performance-oriented upgrades, which includes 38 pounds of shed weight, standard Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires, and revised suspension. The 2.0L turbocharged inline-four remains unchanged for both the Limited Edition and base models.

Learn More

Updates for 2021: A new ‘Fuji Speedway Edition’ is available, which comes in special Arctic Blast Satin and Cloudburst Gray exterior colors, along with a red interior. Only 60 will be produced.

While the RC F is marketed as the high-performance variant of the brand’s luxury coupe, the car is ultimately more posh than sporty in spite of its upgrades.

Powered by a 472 hp V8 engine and given a more aggressive body makeover, the RC F remains a well-rounded car and is completely fulfilling as a luxury GT.

Learn More

The model-topping GS F provides the Lexus lineup with naturally aspirated V8 performance in a 4-door guise. At a time when everything is going turbocharged, or even electric – an 8-banger without forced induction is kind of a cool thing to see.

That makes it seem all the more strange that one would end up in a Lexus sedan which emphasizes luxury more than a puristic driving spirit. The engine is sufficiently powerful and does provide those delightful aural acoustics that are soon to leave us.

Learn More

The range-topping luxury coupe continues to use the same naturally aspirated V8 power plant seen in the rest of the brand’s performance lineup. Notable features include the adjustable suspension which serves to provide a remarkable fusion of performance and comfort.

For 2021, the LC 500 remains virtually unchanged, although Lexus announced that the Lexus will be available in convertible form. Our pick is still the coupe, but for those who like roadsters, it is nice to have the option from Lexus finally.

Learn More

Simple. Mechanical. Fun. The Mazda MX-5 embodies a car which is a blast to drive, inexpensive to own, and a definitively pure experience. This latest iteration of one of the world’s most popular sports cars is better than ever, while staying true to its roots.

The rear-wheel drive, 6-speed manual gearbox and lack of turbochargers remains both a familiar and desirable recipe when it pertains to the new MX-5. The range-topping 2.0-liter engine is more powerful than ever, producing 182 hp and has its redline set at a screaming 7,500 rpm.

As the 2-door version of the company’s best-selling AMG vehicle, the C 63 Coupe 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.

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: Toyota has made some notable changes to the Supra range, adding a four-cylinder model to the lineup. It comes equipped with a 2.0L inline-4 that produces 255 hp, providing a lower price of entry in the process.

In Premium and A91 trims, the car is the fastest Toyota-badged vehicle to date, with a 0 to 60 mph time of just 4.1 seconds. The latter are powered by a 3.0L turbocharged inline-6 engine that makes 382 hp and 368 lb-ft of torque.

The engine is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters.

The Vantage is Aston Martin’s “entry-level” sports car. Raw, instinctive, and unwavering in its singular purpose: to overwhelm the senses through its world-renowned design, agile performance and dedicated craftsmanship. Its heart beats with a high powered 4.0 liter twin-turbocharged V8, producing that visceral Aston Martin roar. New for the 2021 model year, the Aston Martin Roadster is the drop-top version of the British automaker’s gateway car. It continues to embody all of the same and characteristics of its fixed-roof counterpart, but also amplifies the overall experience with that wind-in-the-hair feeling.

Learn More

If the regular R8 is not enough, you can make the jump to the Audi R8 V10 Performance and get 602 hp and 413 lb-ft of torque. Naturally, all-wheel drive continues to come standard in this trim, although this year makes for a more significant case with the elimination of Quattro in the non-Performance (now known as RWD) version. The power bump and addition of all-wheel drive go a long way to padding the performance figures in a desirable fashion, with the 0 to 60 mph time down to 3.2 seconds, and top speed up to 205 mph. The Audi R8 has always been a true performer, and now it looks better than ever, too.

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. 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.

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

Audi has announced that the R8 will be permanently available in rear-wheel drive configuration going forward. The rear-wheel drive R8 takes its place in the lineup as the entry-level R8 variant; if you want Quattro, you will have to opt for the Performance model. The Audi R8 underwent a facelift recently. It now has more aggressive styling. It’s the best looking the R8 has ever been. The front fascia is different and it has new side skirts, a new rear bumper, new rear diffuser, and a new spoiler. Inside, the cabin looks more or less the same. Thanks to the RWD now being the standard offering, the base price of the car is $30,000 lower.

Learn More

The F-Type R has seen its engine output increased for the 2021 year, gaining 25 hp and 14 lb-ft of torque over the previous year’s entry. The engine is exclusively mated to an all-wheel drive version. The platform remains unchanged, with updates to the exterior and interior keeping the model feeling fresh in line with the rest of its lineup. New LED headlights and taillights, a revised front and rear bumper, and a new infotainment system are amongst the new offerings. With sharp handling and blistering acceleration the F-Type R makes for a padded spec sheet and costs less than most of its competition.

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.

Learn More

The AMG S63 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. We expect this model to be updated this year.

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

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, and it is unique enough it should be high on your list.

Learn More

Developed from the racetrack up to be a pure sports car, the AMG GT Coupe’s 469-hp dry-sump biturbo V8 and rear transaxle help create an ideal balance of light weight, and a masterful mix of control, confidence and composure. There is also the Roadster version. Start with a 469-hp dry-sump biturbo V8, rear-mounted transaxle, and lightweight components and wrap it in an aggressively styled yet artistically sculpted roadster body.

Learn More

Developed from the racetrack up to be a pure sports car, the AMG GT Coupe’s 550-hp dry-sump biturbo V8 and rear transaxle help create an ideal balance of light weight, and a masterful mix of control, confidence and composure. There is also a Roadster. A power soft top whisks into its lightweight body in 11 seconds. And with a handcrafted, 550-hp biturbo V8, rear-mounted dual-clutch 7-speed, and a team of racing-bred technologies, the AMG GT C can rush to 60 mph in 3.6 seconds.

Learn More

The 577-hp AMG GT R condenses half a century of motorsports success into a single Nürburgring lap. Lightened, sharpened and strengthened, it’s racing DNA is evident in every fiber of its body, chassis and soul. Sharpened on the Nürburgring, the 577-hp AMG GT R Roadster can bring half a century of motorsports heritage to life in a single lap. Lightened, honed and fortified, its soul can be found where the racetrack meets the sky. Our pick would be the coupe, a true track-focused monsters.

Learn More

The venerable Nissan GT-R is still going strong, more than a decade on with the R35 platform. Given incremental, yet important updates every model year, the GT-R has stayed relevant even though it remains in theory the same car since 2009. With its regular improvements has come an equally consistent increase in the sticker price. Competition within the supercar segment has gotten a lot more contested as well. So while the GT-R no longer boasts the same value-for-performance, it is still a top performer.

Learn More

New for 2021, the Boxster GTS 4.0 is the pick amongst the Boxster range. Gone is the twin-turbo four cylinder and in is the 4.0 naturally aspirated flat six. It sounds phenomenal. Available with both dual-clutch automatic or row your own manual, this is the best sports car on the planet. This is the one to pick.

Learn More

Two seats. Lightweight. Rear-wheel drive. Mid-engined. Screaming naturally aspirated engine. Manual gearbox. It is the perfect formula for a memorable Porsche sports car. The engine is amazingly tractable and revs like a beast. The short-throw six-speed manual is attached to a dual-mass flywheel from the 911 GT3.

Learn More

The Cayman now has five variants, from the entry level Cayman all the way up to the Cayman GT4. The good news is the 4.0-litre flat six is back. The 718 Cayman GTS has been radically improved in 2021, going back to a naturally aspirated flat six engine instead of the turbo four. Looks more aggressive and drives better .

Learn More

The GT4 is a future classic for sure and if you can come up with the extra money you won’t be disappointed. The only downside to buying a GT4 is that the GTS is just as good and in our eyes is more of a sweet ride in daily driving, giving you 9/10ths of the experience for a lot less money.

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. Also available as the "Executive".

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.

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 a true “real sports car” fashion, the GTS does not have an Executive trim. Also available as a Sport Turismo body, with more space and a sultry, wagon body-style

Learn More

With 443 horsepower and that wonderful toque from the twin-turbo boxer 6, the 992 Carrera S is basically like driving a 991.2 Turbo in terms of performance. 992 Carrera S gets higher-geared steering (with optional four-wheel steer as before), better brakes, and new standard-fit adaptive dampers with a wider range of operation than the 991.

Learn More

The 911 Turbo shares the same basic drivetrain package with the S, combining a 3.7-litre twin-turbo flat-six, an eight-speed PDK dual-clutch transmission and all-wheel drive. Peak power is rated at 572bhp, a fairly substantial 69bhp less than Turbo S. If you are shopping in this price range, do yourself a favor and stretch to a Turbo S. If you want to stay under $200k, the Turbo is great.

Learn More

Porsche has continued the use of the naturally-aspirated 4.0L 9A1 flat-6 power plant in the 2022 Porsche 911 GT3. The only key differences between the engine used in the race car and the one used in the 992 GT3, are the exhaust system and ECU. First deliveries are currently scheduled to begin sometime in the later half of 2021, where it may likely be designated as a 2022 model.

Learn More

Porsche set out to make the worlds best electric car and to prove that electric cars can also be driver's cars too. They succeeded. When Car and Driver tested it, only the Porsche 918 Spyder and the Lamborghini Huracán Performante were quicker accelerating. This isn't just a car for acceleration runs (Teslas do that), this is a true Porsche. It steers like a Porsche, it feels like Porsche and it drives like a Porsche.

Learn More