Top Sports Coupes: Car And Driver's Best Picks

Hey car enthusiasts! Are you looking for the best sports coupes on the market? Look no further! Car and Driver has compiled a list of their top picks, and we're here to break it down for you. Whether you're a seasoned driver or just starting out, this guide will help you find the perfect sports coupe to fit your needs and desires. Let's dive into the exciting world of performance, style, and driving pleasure!

What Makes a Great Sports Coupe?

Before we jump into the specific models, let's talk about what makes a sports coupe truly stand out. The best sports coupes aren't just about raw speed; they're about the overall driving experience. Handling, responsiveness, and engagement are key factors. A great sports coupe should make you feel connected to the road, providing precise steering, minimal body roll, and confident braking. The engine, of course, plays a crucial role. It needs to deliver ample power, but also be smooth and refined, offering a satisfying soundtrack to your driving adventures.

Another critical aspect is design. A sports coupe should be visually appealing, with sleek lines, an aggressive stance, and a well-proportioned silhouette. It should turn heads wherever it goes, making a statement about its owner's passion for driving. The interior should be equally impressive, with supportive seats, intuitive controls, and high-quality materials. A driver-focused cockpit is essential, ensuring that everything you need is within easy reach.

Finally, the best sports coupes should offer a blend of performance and practicality. While they may not be the most spacious or fuel-efficient vehicles on the road, they should still be usable in everyday situations. A decent-sized trunk, comfortable seats, and modern technology features are all important considerations. After all, you'll want to enjoy your sports coupe on more than just track days.

Car and Driver's Top Picks

1. Porsche 718 Cayman

The Porsche 718 Cayman consistently ranks among the best sports coupes in the world, and for good reason. It's a mid-engine masterpiece that delivers an unparalleled driving experience. The Cayman's chassis is incredibly well-balanced, providing razor-sharp handling and exceptional control. Whether you're carving through twisty mountain roads or navigating city streets, the Cayman feels composed and confident.

The engine options are equally impressive. The base model features a turbocharged four-cylinder that produces plenty of power, while the higher-performance models offer a thrilling flat-six engine. The Cayman GT4, in particular, is a track-focused beast that delivers blistering acceleration and incredible grip. Regardless of which engine you choose, you'll be rewarded with a responsive throttle and a glorious exhaust note.

Inside, the Cayman's cabin is a model of simplicity and functionality. The seats are supportive and comfortable, the controls are easy to use, and the materials are of high quality. The Cayman also offers a surprising amount of cargo space for a sports car, with both a front and rear trunk.

Car and Driver consistently praises the Cayman for its exceptional driving dynamics, powerful engines, and refined interior. It's a true driver's car that's equally at home on the track and on the road. If you're looking for the best sports coupe that offers a perfect blend of performance and practicality, the Porsche 718 Cayman should be at the top of your list.

2. BMW M4

The BMW M4 is a legendary sports coupe that has been thrilling drivers for decades. It's known for its powerful engine, precise handling, and aggressive styling. The latest generation M4 is no exception, delivering even more performance and excitement than its predecessors.

The M4's turbocharged inline-six engine produces prodigious amounts of power, launching the car from 0 to 60 mph in just a few seconds. The engine is also incredibly responsive, providing instant acceleration at any speed. The M4's handling is equally impressive, with sharp steering, minimal body roll, and excellent grip. It's a car that inspires confidence, allowing you to push your limits on the track or on your favorite back roads.

The M4's interior is a blend of luxury and performance. The seats are supportive and comfortable, the controls are well-placed, and the materials are of high quality. The M4 also offers a range of advanced technology features, including a head-up display, a surround-view camera, and a suite of driver-assistance systems.

Car and Driver consistently praises the M4 for its incredible performance, sharp handling, and luxurious interior. It's a true sports coupe that delivers an exhilarating driving experience. If you're looking for a car that's both fast and fun, the BMW M4 is an excellent choice.

3. Audi RS 5

The Audi RS 5 is a stylish and sophisticated sports coupe that offers a blend of performance and luxury. It's powered by a potent twin-turbo V6 engine that delivers impressive acceleration and a thrilling exhaust note. The RS 5's all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction and stability, making it a confident performer in all weather conditions.

The RS 5's handling is precise and responsive, with minimal body roll and excellent grip. It's a car that's easy to drive quickly, inspiring confidence on both the track and the road. The RS 5's interior is a masterpiece of design and craftsmanship, with high-quality materials, comfortable seats, and a range of advanced technology features.

Car and Driver praises the RS 5 for its powerful engine, precise handling, and luxurious interior. It's a best sports coupe that offers a perfect blend of performance and refinement. If you're looking for a car that's both stylish and sporty, the Audi RS 5 is an excellent choice.

4. Toyota GR Supra

The Toyota GR Supra is a revival of a legendary sports car, and it doesn't disappoint. Developed in collaboration with BMW, the GR Supra combines Japanese engineering with German performance. It's powered by a turbocharged inline-six engine that delivers impressive power and a thrilling exhaust note.

The GR Supra's handling is sharp and precise, with minimal body roll and excellent grip. It's a car that's fun to drive on both the track and the road, offering a rewarding and engaging driving experience. The GR Supra's interior is comfortable and well-equipped, with supportive seats, intuitive controls, and a range of modern technology features.

Car and Driver consistently praises the GR Supra for its excellent performance, sharp handling, and iconic styling. It's a true sports car that captures the spirit of its predecessors while offering modern technology and performance. If you're looking for a sports coupe with a rich heritage and a thrilling driving experience, the Toyota GR Supra is an excellent choice.

5. Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing

The Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing is a true American muscle car, offering blistering performance and a bold, aggressive design. It's powered by a supercharged V8 engine that delivers an astounding amount of power, making it one of the quickest and most powerful sports coupes on the market.

The CT5-V Blackwing's handling is surprisingly precise and balanced, thanks to its advanced suspension and chassis technology. It's a car that's capable of delivering both exhilarating acceleration and confident cornering. The CT5-V Blackwing's interior is luxurious and well-appointed, with comfortable seats, high-quality materials, and a range of advanced technology features.

Car and Driver raves about the CT5-V Blackwing for its incredible performance, surprisingly good handling, and luxurious interior. It's a unique and exciting sports coupe that stands out from the crowd. If you're looking for a car that offers raw power and a thrilling driving experience, the Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing is an excellent choice.

Conclusion

So, there you have it – Car and Driver's top picks for the best sports coupes on the market. Each of these cars offers a unique blend of performance, style, and driving pleasure. Whether you're looking for a track-focused machine or a comfortable and refined daily driver, there's a sports coupe on this list that's sure to meet your needs. So, go out there, do your research, and find the perfect sports coupe to ignite your passion for driving!