Top Automotive Reviews: Reflecting on 2023’s Best Drives & Looking Ahead to 2025
As a veteran of the automotive journalism world, having spent the last decade test-driving everything from economy cars to hypercars, I can confidently say that 2023 was a banner year for thrilling automotive experiences. The luxury and exotic car market continued its upward trajectory, pushing manufacturers to innovate and deliver increasingly impressive machines. And that made my job all the more exciting, racking up miles behind the wheels of the latest and greatest.
But let’s be honest, not every car leaves a lasting impression. So, sifting through the contenders to identify the truly exceptional vehicles that stood out was a task I relished. This isn’t just a list of the fastest or most expensive cars; it’s a curated selection of vehicles that provided the most memorable, engaging, and emotionally resonant driving experiences. Let’s dive into my top picks from 2023, with a little forward-thinking about where these trends may be heading in 2025 and beyond.
Aston Martin DBX707: The Assertive SUV
The Aston Martin DBX 707 injected a potent dose of adrenaline into Aston Martin’s SUV lineup. While the DBX was already a capable machine, the “707” treatment elevates it with ferocious power and dynamic handling. The AMG-sourced 697-horsepower twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 is undoubtedly a showstopper, delivering mind-bending acceleration. But what truly sets the DBX 707 apart is its expertly tuned suspension and all-wheel-drive system, which allows for playful tail-out antics on winding roads, which is unexpected and welcome in such a large SUV. With high-performance SUVs becoming increasingly common, the DBX 707 distinguishes itself as one of the most rewarding to drive, offering a blend of luxury and unbridled performance. This sector is expected to grow, so expect a lot more luxury vehicle reviews on super SUVs in the coming years.
Maserati MC20 Cielo: Open-Air Italian Flair
While the MC20 coupe already wowed me, the Maserati MC20 Cielo convertible truly captured my heart in 2023. Retracting the hardtop roof doesn’t compromise the MC20’s performance or agility; instead, it amplifies the driving experience, immersing you in the sounds and sensations of the road. While the twin-turbo V6 may not have the most evocative exhaust note, it generates a symphony of turbocharger sounds that add to the drama. The MC20 Cielo is a design masterpiece – sleek, sophisticated, and guaranteed to turn heads. It’s a reminder that Italian sports cars are about more than just speed; they’re about passion, style, and the pure joy of driving. Maserati car prices remain in the higher bracket, but are worth every penny.
Lotus Emira: A Return to Sports Car Fundamentals
The Lotus Emira is a breath of fresh air in a world where sports cars are becoming increasingly bloated and complex. It embodies the classic Lotus ethos of lightweight construction and driver-focused engineering. The Emira delivers an engaging and rewarding experience at almost any speed. Its close-ratio gearbox encourages constant shifting, keeping you connected to the engine and the road. It’s a reminder that a sports car doesn’t need to be the most powerful or technologically advanced to be truly special. The Emira proves that simplicity, balance, and a genuine connection between driver and machine are what truly matter. This vehicle made us want to create a Lotus Emira review of all its glory.
Porsche Cayenne Turbo GT: The All-Conquering SUV
The Porsche Cayenne Turbo GT isn’t just a fast SUV; it’s a performance powerhouse that defies expectations. It’s shockingly quick in a straight line, and it attacks corners with an athleticism that seems impossible for a vehicle of its size. The Cayenne Turbo GT feels equally at home on a racetrack and on a daily commute. The 2024 facelift and power bump to 650 horsepower only solidify its position as one of the best all-around performance vehicles on the market. If you’re looking for an SUV that can do it all, the Cayenne Turbo GT should be at the top of your list. Porsche car price for the Turbo GT trim reflects the increased performance.
BMW M3 CS: A Track-Focused Sedan
Drawing inspiration from the M4 CSL, the BMW M3 CS takes the M3’s sporty character and amplifies it to eleven. It’s lighter, stiffer, and more powerful than the standard M3, resulting in a sharper and more engaging driving experience. While its stiff suspension may not be ideal for daily driving, the CS is a revelation on the track, delivering incredible grip, precise steering, and relentless acceleration. As BMW’s products become more refined, the CS is a reminder that the company can still build a raw and thrilling four-door sedan. A comprehensive BMW M3 review will confirm that this model will be popular for years to come.
Bentley Flying Spur S V8: Refined Performance
What truly impresses about the Bentley Flying Spur S V8 is how it drives. Opting for a V8 over the W12 engine lightens the front end, enhancing agility. The active anti-roll bars and expertly tuned suspension allow it to tackle winding roads with surprising composure. It’s balanced, agile, and delivers exhilarating acceleration. The subtle growl from the exhaust adds a touch of sportiness to the otherwise luxurious experience. Of course, it’s still a beautifully appointed luxury sedan, but it’s the driving experience that truly sets it apart.
Lucid Air Sapphire: Electrifying Performance
My time with the Lucid Air Sapphire may have been brief, but it left a lasting impression. It’s not just about the staggering 1,234 horsepower output; it’s about how that power is delivered. The Sapphire’s dynamics are simply phenomenal, allowing it to put down all that power with confidence, even in less-than-ideal conditions. Thanks to the custom development by Lucid engineers, the Sapphire is surprisingly easy to drive at speed, making it a true supercar in disguise. It represents the future of electric performance, and it’s a future that looks incredibly bright. Lucid Air price puts it in direct competition with established brands like Porsche and Mercedes.
McLaren Artura: Hybrid Supercar Excellence
The McLaren Artura faced some challenges on its path to production, but the final product is well worth the wait. Its hybrid powertrain, seamlessly integrating an electric motor with a 120-degree twin-turbo V6, delivers effortless acceleration. Despite the added complexity of the hybrid system, the Artura remains remarkably lightweight, tipping the scales at just 3,303 pounds. Combined with hydraulic steering and a stiff chassis, it provides exceptional feedback and driver engagement, making it one of the most thrilling supercars on the market. The McLaren car price reflects the high-end engineering on display.
Rolls-Royce Spectre: The Epitome of Electric Luxury
The Rolls-Royce Spectre is a car that defies superlatives. It’s likely the quietest and most comfortable luxury car I’ve ever tested. From Napa Valley to the Valley of Fire, the Spectre has consistently impressed me with its effortless performance and unparalleled refinement. It’s not just a luxury car; it’s an experience. The Spectre represents the future of Rolls-Royce, and it’s a future that is both elegant and electrifying. With options easily pushing the price tag over $500,000, such excellence is expected, but the Spectre surpasses even the highest expectations.
Ferrari 296 GTB Assetto Fiorano: The Pinnacle of Driving Delight
Despite driving the Ferrari 296 GTB Assetto Fiorano early in 2023, nothing else I tested could knock it off its perch. Like the Artura, it combines an electric motor with a twin-turbo V6, but the 296 GTB produces a staggering 819 horsepower. More than just speed, the 296 is nearly flawless from a driving perspective. Despite its 3,700-pound weight, it feels light and agile, generating immense grip and allowing for effortless canyon carving. Its elegant styling and unique engine note further enhance its appeal. The 296 GTB is the most memorable car I drove in 2023, and a benchmark for performance and driving pleasure. This vehicle earned a spot at the top of my Ferrari car reviews list.
Looking Ahead to 2025:
These top cars of 2023 showcase several key trends that I expect to see continue and intensify in 2025:
Electrification: Hybrid and all-electric powertrains are becoming increasingly prevalent, even in the highest-performance vehicles.
Performance SUVs: High-performance SUVs are no longer an anomaly; they’re a major force in the market, offering a blend of practicality and exhilarating performance.
Driver Engagement: Despite the increasing complexity of modern vehicles, manufacturers are still prioritizing driver engagement and creating cars that are genuinely fun to drive.
Luxury and Technology: The integration of advanced technology and opulent luxury features is becoming increasingly seamless.
As we move closer to 2025, I anticipate even more innovation and excitement in the automotive world. Manufacturers will continue to push the boundaries of performance, technology, and design, creating vehicles that are not only fast and capable but also engaging and emotionally resonant.
If you’re thinking about upgrading your ride or simply want to learn more about the exciting world of luxury and performance cars, I encourage you to delve deeper into these models and explore what they have to offer. Research local dealerships in cities like Los Angeles, CA or Miami, FL that specialize in high-end vehicles. The perfect car is out there waiting for you.