Car and Driver has released its list for the best cars of 2011, perhaps suggesting a trend for what is to come in the new year with sales.
Dubbed the "Secret Recipe" that every one craves, the BMW 3-series has won its 20th consecutive 10Best slot as one of the greatest cars around. The editors put it best: this model has "handling that encourages risky behavior but a ride that you wouldn’t feel bad subjecting your grandma to."
Next on the list is the Cadillac CTS-V, followed by Car and Driver's first 10Best electric car, the Chevy Volt. The greatness of this plug-in vehicle took the editors by surprise when it proved the words "automotive bliss" and "electric vehicle" can be in the same sentence.
The Ford Mustang GT, as usual, is loved by drivers around the world. Considered one of the best Fords ever to come out of Detroit, this pony car is a definitive number one.
Honda was the only manufacturer with two cars on the 10Best list. The Accord and the Fit both won the honor by being sensible compact vehicles that still have power and smooth ride.
Thanks to its spiffy interior and spacious back seat, the Hyundai Sonata has become the leader of all mid-size sedans, securing its place in the 10Best.
Rounding out the last three are the Mazda MX-5 Miata, Porsche Boxster/Cayman and the Volkswagen Golf/GTI. Mazda has the speed, Porsche's smaller model runs smoother and the VW Golf is the perfect everyday car for drivers on a budget.