The iconic slogan “Ultimate Driving Machine”, launched by BMW in 1974, is not only still relevant but continues to be backed by data. According to the latest Consumer Reports (CR) road tests, the Bavarian brand ranks as the number one automaker for driving experience, outperforming both premium rivals and mainstream brands.
This recognition is not limited solely to BMW enthusiasts. CR’s evaluations, known for their rigor and independence, have confirmed that the German brand meets—and in many cases exceeds—the expectations of modern drivers.
BMW, Audi, and Porsche: German dominance in road tests
BMW was not alone at the top of the rankings. Two other German brands focused on driving pleasure also achieved standout positions: Audi, which placed third, and Porsche, which rounded out the top five.
In BMW’s case, its excellent result was driven by models such as the BMW X5, the clear leader among midsize luxury SUVs. Consumer Reports noted that this generation achieves an optimal balance of comfort, agility, power delivery, and interior quality, making it a perennial favorite.
Audi, meanwhile, shined with the Audi A8, an ultra-luxury sedan described by CR as “immensely satisfying to drive,” thanks to its smooth ride, refined powertrain, and top-tier interior. Porsche stood out with the 718 Boxster, the brand’s highest-scoring model, praised for its agility, immediate responses, and premium cabin feel.
If you’re considering any of these performance-focused models, specialized platforms such as premium and sports car marketplaces offer attractive options already available on the market.
Subaru and Hyundai: standout performance from unexpected places
Subaru narrowly misses the top spot
Subaru earned the second-highest overall score, just behind BMW. Its well-known symmetrical all-wheel drive once again proved to be more than a slogan, delivering real-world advantages on the road. The Subaru Forester was the brand’s highest-rated model; while its acceleration didn’t impress, CR called it “the best-handling small SUV” in its class.
Hyundai Motor Group surprises the industry
One of the biggest surprises in the report was the performance of the Hyundai Motor Group, which placed Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis within the top seven. Hyundai secured fourth place in both overall scores and road-test performance, led by models such as the Hyundai Ioniq 9, praised for its quietness, comfort, and responsive handling.
Even more striking was the performance of the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N, which Consumer Reports said is as fun to drive as gasoline-powered sports cars like the Porsche 718 Boxster or the Toyota Supra—proving that electrification doesn’t have to come at the expense of driving excitement.
Genesis, the group’s premium brand, continues to gain credibility among demanding drivers, further strengthening the Korean conglomerate’s reputation as one of the most competitive players in the industry.
A shift in the balance of the automotive market
With this strong global performance, it comes as no surprise that Hyundai Motor Group has surpassed Volkswagen AG as the world’s second most profitable automaker. The combination of reliability, innovation, and an increasingly refined driving experience is reshaping consumer preferences.
In a market where driving pleasure is once again a decisive factor, these Consumer Reports rankings confirm that both established brands and emerging contenders are raising the bar. And for those ready to take the next step, platforms like yacarros.com have become a key starting point for finding vehicles that excel in both performance and quality.
