For discerning drivers who demand both exhilarating performance and refined luxury, the Best Luxury Sports Car Sedans offer an unrivaled blend. It’s no longer a compromise to seek pulse-raising thrills without sacrificing sophisticated comfort and everyday practicality. This elite segment has blossomed, mirroring the rise of hot hatchbacks that redefined compact performance, because luxury performance sedans now frequently share the very DNA and powertrains of their sports car brethren. Imagine the heart-pounding acceleration and nimble handling of a sports car, seamlessly integrated with the spaciousness and elegance of a sedan – this is the promise, and the delivery, of the best luxury sports car sedan. The choices are abundant, catering to a spectrum of tastes and performance appetites.
Two decades ago, the landscape of luxury sports sedans was far simpler, with fewer contenders vying for the top spot. Today, however, nearly every established automaker, alongside dynamic newcomers like Hyundai’s luxury marque Genesis, has thrown their hat into the ring. While German premium brands have long been synonymous with high-performance four-doors, the global automotive stage is now brimming with compelling options from various corners of the world. Yet, as with any competitive field, some luxury sports sedans simply rise above the rest, delivering an exceptional fusion of performance prowess and opulent refinement. This curated list of ten exceptional vehicles represents the pinnacle of this segment, each meticulously chosen to satisfy even the most demanding desires for both thrilling performance and uncompromised luxury.
Drawing upon expert evaluations from respected sources like Car and Driver, Edmunds, and Top Gear, we’ve compiled a definitive ranking of the best four-door high-performance sedans currently available. Prepare to discover the ultimate expressions of automotive excellence, where luxury and sport converge in perfect harmony.
10. Lexus IS500: The Naturally Aspirated V8 Symphony at 149 MPH
Lexus stands apart in the luxury automotive world by resolutely offering a naturally-aspirated V-8 engine in its current lineup. The IS500, their latest performance marvel, carries the torch of the celebrated IS-F, a formidable rival to the BMW M3 that was unfortunately discontinued in 2014. The legendary 2UR-GSE engine, a masterpiece of engineering, has been meticulously refined to unleash even more power than its predecessor. Yamaha’s masterful touch is once again evident, endowing this Japanese luxury sedan with an intoxicating soundtrack that is as much a part of the driving experience as the raw power itself. While some of the overt visual cues that distinguished previous IS-F models are more subtly integrated in the IS500, its performance credentials remain undeniable.
Lexus IS500 Performance Specs
| Engine | 5.0-liter V-8 |
|---|---|
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | RWD |
| Power | 472 horsepower |
| Torque | 395 lb-ft |
| 0-60 mph | 4.2 seconds |
| Top speed | 149 mph (limited) |
| Curb weight | 3,891 lbs |
The Lexus IS500 operates with a sophisticated understatement. Its visual cues, while present, are not overtly aggressive, hinting at its potent capabilities without shouting about them. Discreetly flared fenders, quad-exhaust outlets, a subtly raised hood bulge, and larger brake rotors (14-inches at the front and 12.7-inch at the rear) are the subtle telltale signs. The F-Sport Performance Premium package elevates the experience further, adding refined touches without resorting to the bold wide-body aesthetics of the original IS-F. For those who appreciate performance delivered with understated elegance and the visceral thrill of a naturally aspirated V8, the Lexus IS500 is a compelling choice in the luxury sports sedan arena.
9. Genesis G70: Korean Luxury with an Enthusiast’s Heart at 155 MPH
Genesis, the luxury division of Hyundai, embodies the Korean automotive giant’s ambitious transformation from a manufacturer of budget-friendly cars to a purveyor of upscale vehicles. This youthful, premium brand from South Korea has made its mission clear: to redefine modern luxury with a focus on time-honored principles of refinement and quality. Within the Genesis lineup, the G70 stands out as the model most directly aimed at driving enthusiasts. This entry-level luxury sports sedan is built upon a shortened version of the Kia Stinger’s chassis and shares its engine options, yet distinguishes itself with a unique character.
Genesis G70 Performance Specs
| Engine | 3.3-liter twin-turbo V-6 |
|---|---|
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | RWD/ AWD |
| Power | 365 horsepower |
| Torque | 376 lb-ft |
| 0-60 mph | 4.5 seconds |
| Top speed | 155 mph (limited) |
| Curb weight | 3,946 lbs |
The G70 differentiates itself through meticulously tuned chassis and suspension, engineered to deliver sharper handling and enhanced agility on winding roads. The result is a more engaging and dynamically rewarding driving experience. Inside, the G70’s cabin exudes a level of sophistication and material quality that rivals established luxury benchmarks like BMW and Lexus. This impressive execution, however, comes with a slight compromise in cargo space, offering 11.65 cubic feet, which is compact for the segment, only exceeding the AMG C63’s smaller trunk. Despite this, the rear seats conveniently fold down, adding a degree of versatility. The Genesis G70 delivers a compelling package of luxury, performance, and engaging driving dynamics, establishing itself as a serious contender in the luxury sports sedan category and a testament to Genesis’ rapid ascent.
8. BMW M3: The Iconic Sports Sedan Heritage at 155 MPH
The BMW M3. The name itself resonates with decades of sports sedan excellence. Currently in its sixth generation, the M3 badge is exclusively reserved for the four-door iteration of BMW’s performance icon. Since 2014, the two-door models have been designated as the M4, cementing the M3’s identity as the definitive four-door performance variant. The M3 stands as a testament to how close a sports sedan can come to embodying the spirit of a true sports car. Its meticulously engineered, nimble chassis delivers exceptional handling prowess, while the potent S58 inline-six engine unleashes serious performance, with even greater potential waiting to be unlocked through tuning.
BMW M3 G80 Performance Specs
| Engine | 3.0-liter twin-turbo inline-6 |
|---|---|
| Transmission | 6-speed manual/ 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | RWD / AWD |
| Power | 473–503 horsepower |
| Torque | 406-479 lb-ft |
| 0-60 mph | 4.0-3.3 seconds |
| Top speed | 155-180 mph (limited) |
| Curb weight | 3,759-3924 lbs |
Even the standard BMW M3 models offer near-supercar levels of performance. The M3 Competition elevates the bar even further, capable of outperforming almost any competitor in the segment. For purists who prefer traditional powertrains, the M3 currently holds a unique position as the only German performance sedan in its class that eschews hybrid technology, opting instead for the classic configuration of a twin-turbocharged inline-six engine. The BMW M3 remains the benchmark luxury sports sedan, a testament to BMW’s unwavering commitment to performance, driving dynamics, and a legacy of automotive excellence.
7. BMW M5 (F90): The Long-Reigning King of Sports Sedans at 155 MPH
The BMW M5. For many, it is synonymous with the very concept of the best luxury sports sedan. Its enduring reputation stems from a masterful combination of practicality, opulent luxury, and breathtaking performance. The M5 boasts an unparalleled consistency as a high-performance four-door car, its iconic lineage tracing back to 1985, making it the longest-running performance sedan in existence and arguably the most consistently capable. As it approaches its seventh generation, the M5 continues to evolve, pushing the boundaries of what a luxury sports sedan can achieve. In its CS guise, the M5 transcends sedan categorization, rivaling the performance of many dedicated sports cars. Furthermore, its robust twin-turbo V-8 engine is renowned for its tuning potential, readily yielding significantly more power in the hands of specialized tuners, solidifying the M5’s status as the ultimate luxury performance platform.
BMW M5 (F90) Performance Specs
| Engine | 4.4-liter twin-turbo V-8 |
|---|---|
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD |
| Power | 600–635 horsepower |
| Torque | 553 lb-ft |
| 0-60 mph | 3.2-2.9 seconds |
| Top speed | 155 mph (limited)/ 189 mph (M5 CS) |
| Curb weight | 4,023-4,177 lbs |
While foldable rear seats are an option on standard M5 models, the M5 CS features dedicated fixed bucket seats for all four occupants, emphasizing its performance focus. Even with this sporty configuration, the M5 offers a generous 18.72 cubic feet of luggage space, more than sufficient for most needs. While the familiar and potent S63B44B engine is expected to continue in future iterations, the current F90 generation M5 marks the end of an era as the last non-hybrid M5, signaling the inevitable shift towards electrification in the performance sedan landscape. The BMW M5 remains the gold standard, a testament to decades of refinement and relentless pursuit of performance and luxury.
6. Audi RS3: Compact Fury with a Unique Five-Cylinder Roar at 159 MPH
The landscape of brand-new Audi sports sedans in their top-tier RS trim is currently limited. While stepping down to Audi’s S lineup expands the options considerably, the ultimate expression of Audi performance in a sedan form factor resides with the RS3. For much of its history, Audi’s entry-level performance model was exclusively available as a hatchback. However, the two most recent generations have broadened its appeal by offering a compact sedan variant, bringing RS-level performance to a wider audience.
Audi RS3 (8Y) Performance Specs
| Engine | 2.5-liter turbocharged inline-5 |
|---|---|
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD |
| Power | 400 horsepower |
| Torque | 369 lb-ft |
| 0-60 mph | 3.6 seconds |
| Top speed | 159 mph/ 184 mph (Performance edition) |
| Curb weight | 3,472 lbs |
Despite its more compact dimensions, the RS3 delivers performance figures on par with the larger Audi S8, showcasing its remarkable power-to-weight ratio. The RS3 also holds a special place in Audi’s history as the last model to feature the iconic five-cylinder engine. Future Audi performance models are expected to embrace VAG’s ubiquitous 2.0-liter turbo-four, likely as part of a hybrid powertrain system, making the RS3 a unique and potentially collectible offering. While the 11.34 cubic-feet of cargo capacity is less than many hatchbacks, the 40/20/40 split-folding rear seats provide welcome flexibility. The Audi RS3 delivers a potent blend of performance, distinctive engine character, and compact luxury, appealing to those seeking a high-performance sedan in a smaller, more agile package.
5. Mercedes-AMG C63 S E-Performance (W206): Electrified Performance Redefined at 174 MPH
The latest generation Mercedes-AMG C63 S E-Performance represents a significant departure and a potentially controversial shift in the AMG performance sedan philosophy. Historically, potent V-8 and even V-12 engines were the defining hallmarks of AMG’s high-performance Mercedes-Benz creations, particularly in their renowned fast sedans. However, this era has drawn to a close. Across the entire W206 C-Class range, including the AMG variant, power now comes exclusively from turbocharged four-cylinder engines. The new AMG C63 S E-Performance no longer relies on the thunderous M177 twin-turbo V-8 of its predecessors. Instead, it adopts the highly advanced M139 turbo-four unit, closely related to the engine found in the AMG A45 hot hatchback, albeit significantly enhanced and hybridized.
Mercedes-AMG C63 E Performance (W206) Performance Specs
| Engine | 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 + 1 electric motor |
|---|---|
| Transmission | 9-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD |
| Power | 680 horsepower |
| Torque | 752 lb-ft |
| 0-60 mph | 3.2 seconds |
| Top speed | 174 mph (limited) |
| Curb weight | 4,585 lbs |
In the C63 S E-Performance, this potent four-cylinder engine is augmented by an electric motor and a sophisticated clutch-operated all-wheel-drive system. This advanced technology is intended to enhance both performance and efficiency, positioning the C63 as a more environmentally conscious performance sedan. This same powertrain, with further refinements and increased power output, is also slated to power the upcoming AMG E63, signaling AMG’s commitment to this electrified performance direction. However, this technological leap comes at a cost in terms of weight and practicality. Trunk space is notably reduced, becoming comparable to a subcompact car like the Suzuki Swift, a compromise that potential buyers will need to consider. The Mercedes-AMG C63 S E-Performance represents a bold step into the future of electrified luxury sports sedans, prioritizing cutting-edge technology and efficiency, even as it departs from AMG’s traditional V-8 heritage.
4. Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio: Italian Passion and Precision at 191 MPH
In 2016, Alfa Romeo rekindled its sports sedan legacy after a 30-year hiatus with the introduction of the rear-wheel-drive Giulia. This striking sedan serves as a spiritual successor to the iconic Alfa Romeo 75, embodying the brand’s passion for driving dynamics and distinctive Italian style. The range-topping Quadrifoglio (QV) variant arrived with a potent V-6 engine, establishing it as a direct competitor to the BMW M3. Crucially, the Giulia debuted with one of the most celebrated chassis in the segment, lauded for its lightweight construction and exceptional agility, characteristics that continue to distinguish it from competitors to this day.
Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrofoglio Performance Specs
| Engine | 2.9-liter twin-turbo V-6 |
|---|---|
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | RWD |
| Power | 503 horsepower |
| Torque | 442 lb-ft |
| 0-60 mph | 3.8 seconds |
| Top speed | 191 mph |
| Curb weight | 3,571 lbs |
Even after its 2022 update, the Giulia QV’s performance figures remain unchanged, a testament to its inherent capabilities. Regrettably, just a year after its initial release, the manual transmission option was discontinued, leaving the ZF automatic as the sole choice. Despite this, the Alfa Romeo Giulia QV offers comparable levels of practicality to the BMW M3 in terms of interior space and cargo capacity, while injecting a unique Italian flair and emotional appeal into the luxury sports sedan segment. For drivers seeking a thrilling and visually captivating alternative to the German establishment, the Giulia Quadrifoglio delivers in spades, combining passionate Italian design with world-class performance.
3. Porsche Panamera: 911 DNA in a Four-Door Masterpiece at 196 MPH
When it comes to high-performance automobiles, few manufacturers possess the expertise and pedigree of Porsche. While the 911 remains an unparalleled icon, certain elements of its legendary DNA inevitably trickle down throughout the Porsche model range. The Panamera represents a particularly intriguing case, born from Porsche’s long-held ambition to create a four-door 911. After years of experimentation with various platforms and concept cars that never reached production, the Panamera finally emerged as a realization of this vision.
Porsche Panamera Turbo S Performance Specs
| Engine | 4.0-liter twin-turbo V-8 |
|---|---|
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD |
| Power | 630–700 horsepower |
| Torque | 605-641 lb-ft |
| 0-60 mph | 3.1-2.9 seconds |
| Top speed | 196 mph |
| Curb weight | 4,585-5,390 lbs |
While marketed as a sedan, the Panamera technically adopts a liftback configuration, featuring a hatchback-style tailgate that opens to reveal a surprisingly generous cargo area of 16.5 cubic feet, expanding to 46.12 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. In the realm of four-door coupes and performance sedans, the Panamera consistently ranks among the very best. Optional electrification, incorporating an electric motor and battery pack, further boosts power output but also adds weight. Interestingly, the non-hybrid Panamera Turbo S, despite having slightly less horsepower, can achieve marginally quicker 0-60 mph times due to its lighter weight. The Porsche Panamera masterfully blends sports car performance with luxury sedan refinement and surprising practicality, solidifying its position as a segment leader and a true embodiment of Porsche’s engineering prowess.
2. Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing: American Muscle and Manual Gearbox Bliss at 200 MPH
Cadillac has undergone numerous transformations throughout its history, evolving from a favored choice of villains to a more traditional, mature demographic. However, in recent years, Cadillac has emphatically shifted its focus towards driving enthusiasts, and no model exemplifies this resurgence more powerfully than the CT5-V Blackwing. In its top-tier trim, this mid-size Cadillac sedan stands alone as the only offering in its class to feature a supercharged, pushrod V-8 engine. Specifically, it houses the legendary LT4 engine, which first debuted in the C7 Corvette Z06 and served as the foundation for the even more potent LT5 unit in the C7 ZR-1.
Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing Performance Specs
| Engine | 6.2-liter supercharged V-8 |
|---|---|
| Transmission | 6-speed manual/ 10-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | RWD |
| Power | 668 horsepower |
| Torque | 659 lb-ft |
| 0-60 mph | 3.6 seconds |
| Top speed | 200 mph |
| Curb weight | 4123-4,142 lbs |
The CT5-V Blackwing is not merely one of the fastest sedans available; it distinguishes itself with the almost unheard-of option of a manual transmission – a feature virtually absent from the contemporary performance sedan landscape. Coupled with a starting price point under $100,000, this formidable Cadillac sedan presents an exceptional value proposition compared to its often pricier German rivals. The Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing delivers a raw, visceral driving experience, blending American muscle car heritage with refined luxury and surprisingly agile handling, making it a truly unique and compelling choice for performance enthusiasts.
1. Maserati Ghibli: Italian Elegance and Ferrari-Derived Power at 202 MPH
Maserati boasts a rich history of crafting fast and luxurious four-door cars, and the Ghibli represents the pinnacle of their sports sedan offerings. However, Italian automakers, Maserati included, have not always been associated with exemplary reliability. This reputation was perhaps most challenged during periods when Maserati shared a significant number of components with Chrysler. While Maserati’s popularity has rebounded and reliability has improved, it still lags behind some competitors, and Maserati models, unfortunately, remain susceptible to depreciation.
Maserati Ghibli Performance Specs
| Engine | 3.8-liter twin-turbo V-8 |
|---|---|
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | RWD |
| Power | 585 horsepower |
| Torque | 538 lb-ft |
| 0-60 mph | 4.0 seconds |
| Top speed | 202 mph |
| Curb weight | 4,616 lbs |
The key to maintaining a Maserati Ghibli, as with many high-performance vehicles, lies in adhering to strict and diligent maintenance schedules. Neglecting maintenance can quickly lead to escalating issues, transforming an otherwise exceptional performance car into a costly endeavor. The Ferrari-derived V-8 engines are undeniably potent and are paired with the proven and widely utilized ZF 8-speed automatic transmission found in numerous other high-performance models. The Ghibli’s primary strengths lie in its exhilarating V-8 engine and its distinctive Italian chic, allowing it to stand out from its more ubiquitous Germanic rivals. For those willing to embrace Italian flair and prioritize driving passion, the Maserati Ghibli offers a unique and captivating luxury sports sedan experience, albeit one that demands diligent ownership.
