Best Cars Under $80K

One of the newest models in the Mercedes-Benz lineup, the stylish CLE (Coupe and Cabriolet) was designed to take the best attributes of the two models it replaced: the two-door variants of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. Similar in length to the E-Class Coupe and Cabriolet, the Mercedes CLE has sleek lines and an elegant interior that boasts the brand’s latest high-tech features.

The 2025 CLE is offered in three performance levels, each with a modern mild-hybrid powertrain and standard Mercedes' 4Matic all-wheel drive. The base-level CLE 300 gets a turbo four-cylinder engine that puts out 255 horsepower, matching that of the BMW 4 Series. A turbocharged six-cylinder rated at 375 hp powers the CLE 450, while the top-level AMG CLE 53 bumps up to 443 hp, delivering performance similar to the BMW M4 and Audi S5.

No matter which powerplant you choose, the CLE features a premium interior with high-quality materials throughout. Newly developed front sport seats are available with heating, cooling, and massage features. The seats also get integrated speakers for the standard premium audio system. An 11.9-inch vertical touchscreen displays the latest MBUX infotainment system, complemented by the 12.3-inch digital driver’s display and available head-up display.

While two-door coupes and convertibles have become a rarity in today’s market, the Mercedes-Benz CLE is an ideal example with a luxurious, comfortable cabin, usable rear seat, and excellent driving dynamics. It holds its own against its BMW 4 Series/M4 and Audi A5/S5 rivals.

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class was redesigned last year, so the 2025 model rides into the new year with the same impressive features. The E-Class has a handsome exterior design, hybrid powertrain, and an interior that sets a new benchmark for luxe and tech in this class. Unlike past generations, which included a coupe, convertible, and wagon, this E-Class is offered only as a four-door sedan, likely a nod to slowing coupe sales and buyers' preference for SUVs over traditional station wagons.

The new E-Class is available in three models: the 255-horsepower E 350 4Matic (which means all-wheel drive in Mercedes-Benz speak), the 375-hp E 450 4Matic, and the new-for-2025 high-performance 577 hp AMG E53 Hybrid. The 350 offers a turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a new mild hybrid system. The E 450 has an inline six-cylinder engine like the previous E-Class lineup but with a revised hybrid system. The top AMG E 53 model has a modified version of the turbocharged six-cylinder engine and a more potent plug-in hybrid system. The E 450 can hit 60 mph in a brisk 4.4 seconds. But the AMG E 53 Hybrid can reach that mark in 3.7 seconds. Top models have an air suspension system for a smoother ride and four-wheel steering to aid maneuverability, ultimately shaving about 3 feet off the turning radius. However, the AMG models use a specific steel spring suspension designed for high-performance driving.

This generation of E-Class features a new infotainment system, offering an impressive optional display that extends dramatically across the entire length of the dash. When equipped with this option, front-seat passengers can stream video or take selfies and video when the car is parked. The top trim with the Pinnacle package offers an impressive Burmester 4D sound system and active ambient lighting. There's more room in the cabin (and in the trunk) than in the previous-generation E-Class, so everyone will have space to stretch out.

When it comes to exterior dimensions, Mercedes-Benz has capped the overall size of the E-Class. It's just over a half-inch longer than the previous generation model but is 2 inches wider and sits on a slightly longer wheelbase. This allowed designers to carve out more interior space without increasing the exterior dimensions. The main E-Class rivals are close in size. The BMW 5 Series is wider and sits on an inch-longer wheelbase. The Audi A6 is about the same length as the Benz but has a shorter wheelbase. The E-Class is arguably the most stylish of the three.

Mercedes-Benz no longer has plans to be fully electric by 2030; however, EVs still play an important role in the German automaker's future. In addition to the EQE Sedan, Mercedes-Benz has rounded out its EV lineup with the EQE SUV, EQB SUV, EQS Sedan, and EQS SUV.

The midsize EQE Sedan has similar styling to the brand’s flagship EQS electric sedan. It may be one of the most aerodynamic designs on the road, but the rounded look with the solid grille will likely turn some buyers away. However, with its luxurious cabin replete with high-quality materials throughout, the EQE will please drivers from the inside.

Like other upscale Mercedes-Benz models, the EQE has a high-tech cabin featuring a large infotainment screen at the center of the expansive dashboard. An additional 12.3-inch driver display can be configured in multiple styles. The infotainment system is quite intuitive to use with interaction via the touchscreen or voice; virtually all physical controls have been eliminated.

Mercedes-Benz offers the 2025 EQE Sedan in multiple performance levels, ranging from the base EQE 350+ to the extreme 600-horsepower AMG EQE. The EQE Sedan can travel up to 307 miles between charges — not quite as far as the Lucid Air or Tesla Model S, but slightly better than the Genesis Electrified G80, Polestar 2, and BMW i5.

The BMW i4 represents a pretty simple concept when it comes to EVs: Take an existing gasoline-powered vehicle and swap out the powertrain for batteries and electric motors. The 2025 BMW i4 shares its looks, inside and out, with the gas-powered 4 Series Gran Coupe and it offers many of the same features. The i4’s driving characteristics are similar, too, with a sporty feel and available high-performance trims for extra thrills. Unfortunately, the shared architecture between the i4 and 4 Series means the i4 has limited cargo space, and no frunk for extra storage.

The i4 is available in several trim levels, with top models serving up 536 horsepower and blistering acceleration. Range estimates span from 276 to 310 miles depending on model. Inside, the i4 has all the BMW panache you’d expect, with a massive set of screens dominating the dashboard and high-quality materials throughout the cabin. Top trims, however, can get pretty pricey for the segment, so we recommend sticking to mid-level i4’s for the best value.

Rivals such as the Cadillac Lyriq and Mercedes-Benz EQE Sedan offer more space and practicality, along with a substantial increase in luxury, but the i4 is certainly more entertaining to drive. The Polestar 2 is also worth considering, with slightly lower prices than the i4, more cargo space, and similar range estimates.

One of the newest mainstream automotive brands in the U.S., Genesis brings a unique perspective as the only luxury car maker based in Korea. While it doesn’t have the cachet or history of better-known brands like Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, or Volvo, it offers an impressive lineup of SUVs and sedans, including the refreshed 2025 G80 midsize luxury sedan.

The G80 slots logically between the smaller G70 and flagship G90 sedans. It shares much of its underpinnings with the recently revised GV80 SUV. The all-electric Genesis Electrified G80 EV is reviewed separately and has not yet received the same updates as the gas-powered version.

With distinctive styling and a cabin replete with high-quality materials, the G80 competes directly with popular European models that include the BMW 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, and Audi A6. Like other models from its parent company, Hyundai, the G80 is an excellent value, boasting prices lower than the competition while delivering an extensive standard feature list. To sweeten the deal, all Genesis models come with a 10-year/100,000-mile warranty, beating those competitors by a large margin.

The G80 is an even stronger offering with significant updates for the 2025 model year. Exterior styling improvements are subtle, with a revised version of the familiar grille and advanced LED headlights in the brand’s signature two-line motif.

However, the G80’s interior gets a more noticeable makeover with an all-new 27-inch touchscreen that elegantly incorporates driver and infotainment displays. The G80 is the first Genesis with standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. High-quality materials are found throughout the cabin, and the G80 has the latest advanced driver-assist features.

With two potent powertrains, full-time all-wheel drive, and available rear-wheel steering, the G80 delivers impressive performance, befitting this luxury sedan while still carrying its passengers in comfort. Handling and driveability are not quite the level of a BMW or Audi, but the 2025 Genesis G80 is an excellent option for buyers with a lower budget or who want to stand out.

Any shopping list of sports cars should begin with the 2025 Chevrolet Corvette. This two-door coupe or convertible looks and acts like a foreign exotic that would cost many times its asking price. Since its debut in 2020, the mid-engine C8 generation has gotten no less impressive in terms of performance, and no less enticing in terms of value. Simply put, it’s the benchmark against which you should measure all other options.

Every 2025 Corvette gets a potent V8 engine. The base-level Stingray has a 6.2-liter V8 making 490 horsepower, while the juiced-up Z06 has a 5.5-liter V8 making 670 hp. There is also a gas-electric hybrid called the Corvette E-Ray, which is reviewed separately. No matter which Vette you choose, expect exceptional balance and agility on the road. Thanks to its excellent weight distribution and mid-engine layout, the Corvette is a joy to drive at any speed.

The interior has historically been a sore spot for Corvettes. But in this Corvette the cabin is comfortable and can even be called plush. Some drivers may find it a little tricky to get in and out of, but it's practical for a sports car, with a trunk in front and a convenient storage space behind the engine. Believe it or not, that helps make the Corvette impressively usable on a daily basis.

Now in its sixth model year, the 2025 Corvette remains an excellent mix of thrills and savings. It has the wow factor and driving chops to match expensive rivals, and it can out-duel anything in its price range. Other competitors in the field include the Porsche 911 and Lexus LC 500, each with a distinct charm and personality. But the Corvette is likely the most well-rounded of the bunch — no small feat for an American brand.

Audi has long been known for its rally-racing ties, breaking through to stardom with the Audi Quattro of the 1980s. It was there that the German automaker's Quattro all-wheel-drive system made its mark, and since then, Audi's been putting its novel AWD setup into nearly every car and SUV it sells.

Stepping up to the plate of those rally roots are two modern cars - the Audi A4 Allroad and the larger A6 Allroad. Both are luxury wagons with generous ground clearance and reinforced body cladding, making them ideal vehicles for traversing nasty weather and rutty dirt roads or just maneuvering through Whole Foods parking lots. The A6 Allroad provides the best of Audi's technology and plush interior appointments in a long wagon body, giving passengers similar comfort to the A6 sedan but with more practicality to boot. Speaking of the boot, cargo space is excellent.

Powering the A6 Allroad is a turbocharged V6, which gets up to speed quickly, and it's matched with precise handling that wouldn't be out of place in a sports sedan. The A6 Allroad balances a fun driving experience with all-weather prowess, making it a smart alternative to a taller and bulkier SUV.

There aren't many rivals to the A6 Allroad - the market for high-priced station wagons with mild off-roading abilities has been all but consumed by the luxury SUV segment - but that doesn't mean there aren't a few other holdouts. The Volvo V90 Cross Country is a less expensive, Swedish take on the off-road wagon, though it lacks the Audi's sportiness. The Mercedes-Benz E 450 All-Terrain is the pick for those wanting utmost comfort. And for those willing to compromise on luxury for more versatility and a more commanding ride height, the Subaru Outback straddles the line between wagon and SUV.

Audi’s lineup of sedans sticks to a relatively simple and successful formula. Styling is similar across most of their models, with size, luxury, and model numbers increasing predictably. The A3 is the smallest, and the A4 is a bit larger. Then, in the midsize segment, there’s the Audi A6. The standard engine for the A6 is a turbocharged four-cylinder, with a turbocharged V6 available as an option. Like other Audi models, a high-performance version of the A6, the S6 (reviewed separately), is also available.

The 2025 Audi A6 offers several standard features, including luxury items like heated seats and tri-zone climate control. Driver-assist technology like automatic emergency braking and lane-departure warning is part of the entry-level model. A crisp, high-definition 10.1-inch infotainment screen is also included, but it can be a bit distracting to use. It’s paired with a second, lower touchscreen that controls climate functions — a more straightforward layout would be easier to navigate.

While some consider Audi's styling too conservative, we feel the styling is best described as classy. Like the other models in the lineup, the A6 feels elegant inside and out. Materials quality matches up well with rivals like the BMW 5 Series and Lexus ES 350. The A6 isn’t as sporty as the BMW or as relaxed as the Lexus, but it strikes a nice balance. Other rivals worth considering include the Genesis G80 and Cadillac CT5-V which both offer competitive pricing.

The Audi A7 carves its own path in the luxury sedan segment, offering up an eye-catching coupe physique with the utility of a hatchback. It's a fully-fledged luxury sedan that gives drivers precise handling and a smooth ride. Putting all the pieces together, the A7 is wonderfully versatile as a daily driver, family vehicle, and sport sedan. A potent turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 lives below the hood, providing ample power, and standard Quattro all-wheel-drive ensures confidence on any road in any weather.

The A7 seamlessly transitions to a serene highway companion. Stepping inside reveals a luxe cabin crafted with high-end materials. Audi's dual-screen infotainment system offers many features and climate control integration, though it could be more modern and more user-friendly. The practical cargo hatch adds a touch of versatility, making the A7 an undeniably stylish all-rounder. While the mechanically similar A6 might be a more affordable option with comparable equipment, and some competitors boast a wider range of powertrains, the A7 excels with its exceptional blend of comfort, performance, practicality, and undeniable curb appeal.

The Volvo V60 Plug-In Hybrid shatters the stereotype of the dull station wagon. While its 41-mile electric driving range and excellent fuel economy make it a sensible choice for errands, it truly comes alive on the open road. The plug-in hybrid powertrain boasts a well-hidden secret: 455 horsepower and a blistering 4.3-second 0-60 mph time, rivaling sports cars.

Unassuming looks belie a sport-tuned suspension by Ohlins and Brembo brakes, ensuring the handling matches the surprising straight-line performance. All-wheel drive adds further capability in various conditions.

This disguise extends to the interior. While sporting elements are present, the cabin prioritizes comfort and refinement. Highlights include a crystal gear shifter, a Bowers & Wilkins sound system, Google integration, and even an air purification system. A minimalist design philosophy complements the understated exterior.

The V60 Plug-In Hybrid faces limited competition in the fun-to-drive wagon segment. The Audi RS 6 Avant offers superior performance, space, and luxury, but at a significantly higher price point. Volvo's own V60 Cross Country provides a more rugged option for those prioritizing capability over outright speed.

The arrival of the 2025 Porsche 718 Cayman brings a bittersweet end to a sports car icon. The 718 Cayman is a two-door coupe, and this most recent version first debuted in 2017 alongside the topless 718 Boxster counterpart. But 2025 will be its final year on the market — as a gas-powered model. Porsche is preparing to replace the 718 Cayman with a fully electric sports car that likely carries the same name.

As a result, the 2025 718 Cayman leaves behind a legacy of driving thrills and unparalleled fun for the class. Its models range from an innovative 300-horsepower turbo engine to a raucous 493-hp engine borrowed from the intense Porsche 911 GT3. The engine is mid-mounted, giving the 718 Cayman near-perfect balance and the ability to tackle backroads and track days. On top of that, it could also serve as a comfortable daily commuter with far more flair than the average upscale sedan.

In recent years, price creep has dragged the Cayman away from its bargain roots. The cost has risen again this year, resulting in a base price of nearly $75,000. The popular 718 Cayman S, long considered one of the top values on the market, now fetches about $87,000. That’s tough to swallow when the car still has a 7-inch touchscreen and a rather spartan interior.

The 718 Cayman still delivers on its promise of driving joy. For that reason, it remains a strong choice in the sports car class, though it faces tough competition from the BMW M4 and Toyota GR Supra — the M4 with two more seats, the GR Supra with a much more attractive price. There’s also the Chevrolet Corvette and its many heart-thumping variations. Even so, no one will question your sanity for deciding to park a 2025 718 Cayman in your driveway. It’s the end of an era, but what an era it was.