The Great Mixer

  Overview With a twin-turbo V-8 that churns out up to 617 horsepower, the 2021 BMW M5 deserves a more explicit classification than mere  sports sedan . Although based on the  normal 5-Series  and sharing an equally elegant interior, the mighty Bimmer is transformed by the company's high-performance M division. Sure, its mission to outrun some of the best sports cars is veiled by its relatively subdued appearance, but simply mat the accelerator and hold on as the M5 blasts ahead like a cruise missile. Its track-ready hardware also supports impressive handling limits, and its sophisticated all-wheel-drive system also allows juvenile rear-drive sideways shenanigans. However, the BMW's six-figure price tag might as well be a "no kids allowed" sign, because the 2021 M5 is a machine for well-heeled men and women who covet rockets with four doors. What's New for 2021? BMW freshens up the 2021 M5 with a larger grille, restyled front and rear bu...

  Overview The 2021 Mercedes-AMG E63 S sedan is the materialization of pure affluence crossed with rapturous performance. It's based on the regular  Mercedes-Benz E-class , but the E63 S is actually a more powerful version of the AMG E53. However, this significantly more expensive sibling features a fire-breathing 603-hp twin-turbo V-8 that helps it accelerate with breathtaking speed. Plus, the E63 S's talented all-wheel-drive system has a Drift mode that routes all of the engine's power to the rear wheels for entertaining sideways action. Of course, this mightiest E is hardly meant for adolescent indulgences. Its rowdy soundtrack and incredible handling make it a machine that can intimidate and challenge even the most exotic cars. And once those opponents are left stunned, the 2021 E63 S sedan pampers its passengers like a five-star resort. What's New for 2021? For 2021, Mercedes refreshes the E63 S's appearance and gives the sedan some new features. The most n...

  Overview Unlike some rival sedans that compromise luxury for performance and vice-versa, the 2020 Volvo S60 gracefully balances both virtues. Its distinct yet elegant exterior is offset by an inviting interior that is sophisticated and spacious. Its array of desirable features cover the gamut from high-class to high-tech. Likewise, the Swedish automaker hasn't neglected its penchant for safety with myriad standard and optional  driver-assistance technology . The Volvo sedan also offers three distinct power-train choices, which include a potent plug-in-hybrid variant that also powers its sportiest model. Regardless, every 2020 S60 is rewarding to drive and comforting to ride in. What's New for 2020? Volvo makes several changes to the 2020 S60 lineup that include more standard features, new options, and a larger 11.6-kWh battery pack for the plug-in hybrid. All S60s now come standard with a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster. R-Design models add standard four-...

  Overview The 2021 Audi Q8 has one less row of seats and a lot more style than the three-row Q7 SUV that it is based on. With a coupe-like profile and bolder bodywork, the two-row Q8 kicks off the company's line of ultimate crossovers, which also includes the separately reviewed SQ8 and RS Q8. Although the regular Q8 is less powerful than those sportier counterparts, it still boasts a potent 335-hp turbo V-6 and standard Quattro all-wheel drive. The Q8 also provides a car-like driving experience that is both athletic and refined. Its cabin is beautifully appointed and solidly put together in typical Audi fashion. While it holds fewer people and has less cargo space than its three-row sibling, the 2021 Q8 is best suited for those who prioritize sportiness, luxuriousness, and style. What's New for 2021? For 2021, Audi gave the Q8 newly standard features and revised option packages. All models now have blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic al...

  Overview Volvo's fun and funky XC40 blends everything I love about the brand's large SUVs with a more youthful appearance and a charming driving demeanor. Volvo offers two different turbocharged four-cylinders: The 184-hp T4 engine comes with front-wheel drive, and the more powerful 248-hp T5 gets all-wheel drive as standard. Inside, buyers will find a thoughtfully designed cabin complete with plenty of storage cubbies and a smattering of high-tech features. Compared with most of its subcompact-crossover rivals—such as the  BMW X1  and the  Mercedes-Benz GLA-class —the XC40 has a more commanding driving position, making it feel larger than it is. What's New for 2021? Blind-spot monitoring, rear-cross-traffic alert, leather upholstery, adaptive LED headlamps, power-folding exterior mirrors with an auto-dimming function, rear parking sensors, and two rear-seat USB-C ports are now standard across the XC40 lineup. Volvo cut the AM radio tuner from the feature...

  Overview Standout design declares the 2020 Volvo S90's place atop the maker's luxury sedan range and sets it apart from the competition. The S90's elegantly straightforward interior provides tasteful, comfortable and spacious environs equally suited to around-town commutes or long-distance travel. The S90 is also packed with advanced driver-assistance features in keeping with Volvo's heritage of safety. There are two power-trains, both of which are unconventional. The T6 inline-four is both turbocharged and supercharged while the plug-in hybrid T8 adds more power from the combined gasoline engine and electric motor, and useful electric-only driving range. i've found the ride and handling a step behind the rest of the class. Volvo's emphasis on safety combine with its distinctive design and comfort to give the S90 broad appeal. What’s New for 2020? The former T5 power-train has been dropped from the S90 range while an all-new R-Design package offers a sportier ...