Some cars are more challenging to drive than others. They are clumsy, sluggish, or merely unresponsive. But then some others handle like a dream. These cars combine exacting handling, scorching acceleration, and interiors that transform every drive into a luxury experience. Here are 26 vehicles that handle like a dream:
Ferrari 458 Italia (2009)
Designed by Pininfarina, the Ferrari 458 Italia was a revolution in handling dynamics when it launched in 2009. Its 4.5L naturally aspirated V8 engine roars to life, producing 562 horsepower, and thanks to Ferrari’s lightning-fast dual-clutch transmission, it rockets from 0-60 mph in just 3.0 seconds. The 458’s secret sauce is its ultra-responsive steering and advanced aerodynamics that keep it glued to the road. Internally, the cabin is dressed in carbon fiber and Alcantara with a lean aesthetic that forsakes traditional buttons for a Formula 1-esque steering wheel.
Porsche 911 GT3 (2013)
The 2013 Porsche 911 GT3, penned by Porsche’s internal design bureau, is a precision tool that can be used on the track and offers a pleasurable drive on long and sweeping highways. Beneath its bonnet is a 3.8L naturally aspirated flat-six motor that produces 475 horses, taking the car from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.3 seconds. Its rear-wheel steering adds to its agility, and a light chassis offers razor-sharp handling. The interior has motorsport-grade Alcantara and leather, with body-gripping bucket seats gripping you tight through high-speed bends.
McLaren 720S (2017)
McLaren 720S, designed by Rob Melville, is an engineering masterclass. Its 4.0L twin-turbo V8 cranks out an unbelievable 710 horsepower and blasts to 60 mph in just 2.8 seconds. The car also has a Proactive Chassis Control II system that dynamically alters suspension settings for sublime handling. The interior is modern but practical, with an adjustable digital instrument display and subtle carbon-fiber trim. Each aspect of the interior is crafted to strengthen the connection between driver and car, creating a car that responds to every reflex.
BMW M2 CS (2020)
The BMW M2 CS, designed by Adrian van Hooydonk’s design team, is a compact powerhouse with perfect 50/50 weight distribution. Its 3.0L twin-turbo inline-six delivers 444 horsepower, which gets it from 0-60 mph in only 3.8 seconds. The well-tuned adaptive suspension and stiff chassis make it absolute heaven to flick into corners. The interior mixes Alcantara, carbon fiber, and minimalist driver-focussed interior, furthering its raw performance lean. With the manual transmission and feedback-based driving pleasure, the M2 CS is among the most thrilling drives in the BMW lineup.
Lamborghini Huracan EVO (2019)
Lamborghini’s Huracán EVO, designed by Mitja Borkert, improves on its predecessors’ sheer power with enhanced aerodynamics and rear-wheel steering. The 5.2L naturally aspirated V10 produces 631 horsepower and accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in under 2.9 seconds. The innovative Lamborghini Dinamica Veicolo Integrata (LDVI) system continuously adapts to driving conditions, allowing for telepathic handling. On the inside, Alcantara and carbon fiber dominate, with a large touchscreen that effortlessly integrates performance data.
Mazda MX-5 Miata (2016)
There are very few cars with as much handling integrity as the fourth-gen Mazda MX-5 Miata. Released in 2016 and penned by Masashi Nakayama, the roadster is the ultimate epitome of driving joy. The car is equipped with a 2.0L naturally aspirated four-pot producing 181 horsepower, with its 0-60 mph time of 5.7 seconds. Its charm lies in the combination of its power, its ideal weight distribution, and light steering. Inside, it is comfortable but tastefully trimmed, featuring soft leather seats, a minimalist dashboard, and a driver-centric arrangement that makes each turn of the wheel come naturally.
Chevrolet Corvette C8 (2020)
The mid-engine 2020 Corvette C8 was an American sports car game-seller. Tom Peters created it featuring a 6.2L V8 powerplant with 495 horsepower and 0-60 mph speed in 2.9 seconds. Its revolutionary new mid-engine layout dramatically boosts handling, featuring a balance never encountered in Corvettes. Inside is a tech wonderland of a fighter-jet-inspired cockpit, premium leather seats, a squared-off steering wheel, and an 8-inch digital instrument cluster.
Audi R8 V10 Performance (2019)
Frank Lamberty designed the Audi R8 V10 Performance, a street-legal Lamborghini Huracán with a shared 5.2L V10 engine with 602 horsepower. It accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 3.2 seconds and has Audi’s iconic Quattro all-wheel drive for improved traction. The interior is sporty but luxurious, with Nappa leather, an Audi Virtual Cockpit display, and motorsport-inspired carbon-fiber trim. All controls are within easy reach so the driver can remain fully absorbed in the driving experience.
Lotus Evora GT (2020)
The Lotus Evora GT, designed by Russell Carr, is a precision driver’s tool surrounded by a chiseled wrapper. Powered by a 3.5L supercharged V6 that offers 416 horses, it makes 0-60 mph in 3.8 seconds. It weighs just 3,175 pounds and offers a mind-boggling power-to-weight ratio and razor-like steering. The minimalist but high-end interior features light Alcantara-trimmed seats, a digital instrument gauge cluster, and a no-frills driving configuration geared toward performance only. Every aspect of the cabin has a single-minded focus on maintaining minimal distractions, a testament to the Evora GT’s single-minded purpose of raw, unbridled driving enjoyment.
Mercedes-AMG GT R (2017)
Mercedes-AMG GT R, designed by Gorden Wagener, is a front-engine monster with handling tuned for the track. It’s driven by a 4.0L twin-turbo V8 producing 577 horsepower, taking it from 0-60 mph in 3.5 seconds. It has active aerodynamics and rear-wheel steering for agility, which makes it surprisingly agile, considering it’s a front-engine car. The interior fuses luxury and motorsport with deeply bucketed seats, carbon-fiber accents, and an expansive digital readout with performance data. Its driver-selectable modes enable the cabin to transition smoothly from grand tourer luxury to hard-core track-level ferocity.
Nissan GT-R Nismo (2020)
The 2020 Nissan GT-R Nismo, designed by Shiro Nakamura, refines an iconic platform further. Its 3.8L twin-turbo V6 produces 600 horsepower and accelerates to 60 mph in 2.5 seconds. The all-wheel drive and active torque vectoring provide brain-twisting cornering traction. Recaro racing seats, Alcantara-trimmed surfaces, and a performance-focused dashboard keep the driver informed. Every stitch and surface is designed to reinforce the GT-R’s brutal, precise nature, making it as focused inside as it is on the road.
Acura NSX Type S (2022)
Michelle Christensen’s second-generation Acura NSX Type S marries hybrid technology with knife-sharp handling. A 3.5L twin-turbo V6 and three electric motors produce 600 horsepower, accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in 2.9 seconds. Its Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system provides unparalleled grip and precision through turns. The interior combines modern tech and performance-focused materials, featuring Alcantara-wrapped sports seats, a digital instrument cluster, and a driver-centric cockpit with minimal distractions.
Ford Mustang Shelby GT350R (2016)
The Shelby GT350R, engineered by Ford Performance, is the most track-oriented Mustang. It takes the brutish power of a Mustang and hones it into a corner-carving monster. Beneath the hood is a high-revving 5.2L V8 that cranks out 526 horsepower, launching it from 0-60 mph in 3.9 seconds. Due to its MagneRide adaptive suspension and lightweight carbon-fiber wheels, it handles superbly despite its muscle car roots. The Recaro bucket seats, flat-bottom steering wheel, and minimalist approach emphasizing driving involvement mark the interior.
Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio (2017)
The Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio, styled by Centro Stile Alfa Romeo, is a supercar-handling Italian sports sedan. It merges stunning performance with a passion that only Alfa Romeo can offer. Its 2.9L twin-turbo V6, designed by Ferrari, churns out 505 horsepower and propels it from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.6 seconds. It cuts through corners elegantly with an almost ideal 50/50 weight distribution and sophisticated chassis. Carbon-fiber accents, leather and Alcantara seats, and a stripped-down dashboard blend luxury and performance.
Aston Martin Vantage (2018)
The 2018 Aston Martin Vantage, penned by Marek Reichman, is a British grand tourer with sports car accuracy. It’s as stunning to behold as it is a blast to drive. It boasts a 4.0L twin-turbo V8 borrowed from AMG, with 503 horsepower and a 0-60 mph time of 3.5 seconds. Its adaptive damping suspension and lightweight aluminum chassis make it extremely nimble. The interior blends hand-stitched leather, digital gauges, and a large center console that adds to the cockpit-like atmosphere.
Subaru WRX STI S209 (2019)
The Subaru WRX STI S209 is a limited edition created by Subaru Tecnica International that brings rally-bred capability to the streets. It is the closest thing to a full-on rally car that can be driven to the supermarket. Its 2.5L turbocharged boxer engine produces 341 horsepower and goes from 0 to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds. The all-wheel-drive setup and torque vectoring make it a complete monster in cornering situations and slippery roads. Suede-trimmed Recaro seats, red stitching, and a driver-centric dashboard provide an engaging interior.
Jaguar F-Type R (2021)
The Jaguar F-Type R, penned by Ian Callum, marries British style with ballistic performance. It can purr like a cat or roar like a lion depending on how it is driven. Its 5.0L supercharged V8 engine produces 575 horsepower, taking it from 0 to 60 mph in 3.5 seconds. Its all-wheel-drive system delivers fantastic grip while its adaptive suspension maintains sharp handling. Inside, the car has Windsor leather sports seats, a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, and a driver-focused center console that takes luxury to a new level.
Lexus LC 500 (2018)
Tadao Mori styled the Lexus LC 500 and is one of the most beautiful grand tourers in production. It comes with a naturally aspirated 5.0L V8, putting down 471 horsepower and accelerating from 0-60 mph in a mere 4.4 seconds. Though not the quickest on this list, its flawless balance, rear-wheel-drive configuration, and adaptive variable suspension make it a joy to drive. On the inside, the LC 500 is a work of craftsmanship, with hand-stitched leather, Alcantara door inserts, an otherworldly dashboard, and an understated 10.3-inch infotainment screen.
Tesla Model S Plaid (2021)
Tesla’s Model S Plaid, penned by Franz von Holzhausen, redesigns what a car can accomplish as an electric vehicle. It’s evidence that EVs can be as exciting as conventional sports cars. Its three-motor configuration produces a staggering 1,020 horsepower, accelerating from 0-60 mph in a brain-bending 1.99 seconds. With a low center of gravity and torque vectoring, it offers impressive and sharp handling for a sedan. The interior is spartan but cutting-edge, with a 17-inch screen, a yoke-shaped steering wheel, and vegan leather seats.
Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Redeye (2019)
Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Redeye, penned by Mark Trostle, is an unapologetic muscle vehicle that catches one off guard with its handling capacity. It has a supercharged 6.2L HEMI V8, putting out 797 horsepower, which rockets from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.4 seconds. Though its dimensions imply a straight-line bruiser, its widebody stance and adaptive suspension make it surprisingly agile. The Redeye has bolstered leather seats, a performance data recorder, and an 8.4-inch infotainment system.
Honda Civic Type R (2023)
Hideki Kakinuma’s 2023 Honda Civic Type R is a front-wheel-drive handling wonder. It shows us that front-wheel-drive vehicles can be as thrilling as their rear-wheel siblings. Its 2.0L turbocharged inline-four makes 315 horsepower, enabling a 0-60 mph performance of 5.2 seconds. It has razor-sharp steering and track-tuned chassis. The interior is enthusiast-oriented, with bolstered red bucket seats, aluminum pedals, a digital instrument cluster, and a short-throw manual transmission.
Bugatti Chiron Pur Sport (2020)
The Bugatti Chiron Pur Sport, designed by Achim Anscheidt, is a handling hypercar, not a speed-only car. It’s a billion-dollar mix of engineering and madness. Its quad-turbo 8.0L W16 engine puts out 1,479 horsepower, accelerating it from 0 to 60 mph in 2.3 seconds. The Pur Sport model has reworked aerodynamics, a more rigid chassis, and super-light magnesium wheels for better cornering. On the inside, it mixes luxury with performance, with Alcantara seats, titanium trim, and a driver-centric design.
Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 1LE (2018)
The Tom Peters-designed Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 1LE is an American muscle car with handling geared toward the track. It’s evidence that muscle cars can own both corners and straights. It features a supercharged 6.2L V8 producing 650 horsepower and a 0-60 mph time of 3.5 seconds. The 1LE package includes a race-tuned suspension, aggressive aerodynamics, and sticky tires for hairpin-sharp control. The interior features Recaro seats, a suede-wrapped steering wheel, and a performance heads-up display.
2021 BMW M5 Competition
Adrian van Hooydonk-designed 2021 BMW M5 Competition illustrates that a business-class car can ride and behave as aggressively as a sports car. It’s equal parts office and racetrack in character. Its twin-turbo V8 has a displacement of 4.4L yet produces an enormous 617 horsepower that kicks it into speed within 3.1 seconds for 0-60 mph. xDrive all-wheel and an adaptive suspension hold it tightly onto the tarmac like one at the tracks. The cabin is a work of art, with Merino leather upholstery, carbon-fiber accents, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and ambient lighting.
Pagani Huayra Roadster BC (2019)
Horacio Pagani-designed Pagani Huayra Roadster BC is a piece of automotive art that drives like a dream. Powered by an AMG-derived 6.0L twin-turbo V12 developing 791 horsepower, this roadster accelerates from 0-60 mph in a heart-stopping 2.8 seconds. What makes it special is its lightweight carbon-titanium monocoque body, active aerodynamics, and finely tuned suspension, all playing harmoniously with each other to produce a downright supernatural experience. Aboard, the cabin is opulent with hand-stitched leather, revealed carbon fiber, and steampunk-styled instrumentation that is right out of a science-fiction film.
Toyota GR86 (2022)
The Toyota GR86, created in collaboration with Subaru and styled by Toyota’s GR division, is a lightweight, rear-wheel-drive coupe aimed at purists. Its 2.4L naturally aspirated flat-four engine churns out 228 horsepower, posting a respectable 0-60 mph time of 6.1 seconds. This vehicle is about balance, agility, and driver engagement, making every twist and turn a pleasure to drive. The interior is plain but practical, with supportive bucket seats, a driver-oriented digital gauge cluster, and a small steering wheel for ultimate control.
18 Budget-Friendly Electric Cars That Last Longer Than Their Loans — Economical Electrics
Electric vehicles are no longer a luxury for the elite—they’re a smart investment for the everyday driver. With manufacturers stepping up to the plate, affordable EVs now deliver on reliability, range, and modern comforts. Here’s a look at 18 economical electric cars engineered to outlast their payment plans.
18 Budget-Friendly Electric Cars That Last Longer Than Their Loans — Economical Electrics
