| MORE TEST FEST COVERAGE |
| Pick-Up | Nov 15, 2006 |
| SUV / CUV over $60,000 | Nov 14, 2006 |
| SUV / CUV $35,000 - $60,000 | Nov 13, 2006 |
| SUV / CUV under $35,000 | Nov 11, 2006 |
| Convertible | Nov 10, 2006 |
| Sport / performance car under $50,000 | Nov 8, 2006 |
| Prestige car over $75,000 | Nov 7, 2006 |
| Luxury car under $50,000 | Nov 6, 2006 |
| Family car over $30,000 | Nov 5, 2006 |
| Family car $22,000 - $30,000 | Nov 4, 2006 |
| Small car over $18,000 | Nov 3, 2006 |
| Small car under $18,000 | Nov 2, 2006 |
| The most coveted parking space in the country | Nov 1, 2006 |
| Writers' predictions for the best new cars of 2007 | Nov 1, 2006 |
For many, this is the most exciting category but also the hardest to evaluate. Six models are in contention, each sporting a slightly different persona: there are two true sports cars, the Audi RS4 and BMW M Coupe, three performance sedans, the Audi S6, BMW 3-Series Coupe and Lexus GS 450h, as well as one American icon, the Mustang GT500.
Audi RS4 |
| (Photo: Audi) |
The Audi RS4 is the clear-cut winner because of its power, handling and track performance. The driver can have total control only with his eyes and fingertips. Braking is otherworldly. You can take it to the supermarket, but you will have to sacrifice a fair amount of ride comfort.
BMW M Coupe |
| (Photo: BMW) |
The closest competitor is the BMW M Coupe, which offers an interesting engine and good road grip. On the track, the rear tends to skid, but the stability control system helps to bring the car back in the driver's intended path. My only complaint is the driving position: I found it too tight to be comfortable for sporty driving.
BMW 335i Coupe |
| (Photo: BMW) |
However, when I jumped into its sister, the BMW 335i Coupe, the driving position appeared more than adequate. Power, solid handling and predictable behavior are on the menu. This car is fun to drive, which is what BMWs are known for. Access to the rear seats is a bit complicated, but one chooses a coupe for its looks and the 335i certainly deserves your attention. What's more, the price makes the car somewhat affordable.
Audi S6 |
| (Photo: Audi) |
Its German rival, the Audi S6, offers an interesting mix thanks to the 4-door bodystyle, the powerful V10 engine and especially the quattro all-wheel drive. Much more smoother than the RS4, this midsize sedan is perfectly suited to our road and weather conditions. Being twice as expensive as the 335i Coupe, the S6 offers better interior fit and finish, which adds to its luxury level.
Lexus GS 450h |
| (Photo: Lexus) |
Now for the stranger among the group. The Lexus GS 450h impresses with its tremendous build quality. Priced between the BMW 335i and the Audi S6, this car is more a luxury car than a true sports sedan. Nevertheless, the GS 450h delivers surprising performance and handling. It is more like the BMW, but its typical driver prefers a smoother and more compliant ride. The GS offers tons of comfort, while its output is reasonable and low-polluting.
