High-Performance Cars of 2017
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By Helen Cartwright
Editor-at-large
Performance cars come in all shapes and sizes, so it can be a challenge for both new and experienced drivers to identify the best. With much emphasis put on fuel consumption, safety, and emission these days, you may assume that this is the wrong time for performance cars. On the contrary, modern performance cars are sharper and quicker than ever been, boasting a muscular utility and admirable fuel economy.
So, what qualifies a performance car? Some of the most common and important features of most performance cars are accessibility to drive and ability to put a smile on the driver's face. They have the ability to accelerate to top speed in a moment's notice. Most models offer genuine thrills for any motorist who desires for ultimate performance while others are halo cars from mainstream car makers offering exaggerated looks to match the performance. With that said, a performance car doesn’t have to be the fastest model on top gear. The best are the ones that can suit both on and off-road drive. In this 2017 list of top performance cars, you will find the go to models that offer the best driving experience.
1. Ford Focus RS
The Focus RS is a 2.3-litre turbo-four model that is all wheel drive. What you might love about this model are the bigger brakes, adjustable dampers and super-grippy tyres. On top of this, it is fast, easy to live with and remarkably sticky, so it could well qualify as your ultimate hatchback. Other desirable features of the RS are the EPA fuel economy 22 mpg with a trunk volume of 19.9 cubic feet. The Focus RS has a 5-year warranty or 60,0000 miles.
2. Porsche 911 GT3
Porsche 911 GT3 is a luxury sports car with a massive rear spoiler. This model is arguably the best among the GT models. With its centre-lock wheels and stripped out cabin, GT3 looks the part. Generally, the model is a tracked-focused road vehicle. You might also love its flat six which has response and sound that confirms that it is a finely tuned engine.
3. Ford Mustang GT
In the 90s, Ford Mustang had only 4.9-litre V8 or 2.3 litre-inline four. Six cylinders were not anywhere on its menu. Surprisingly, history is almost repeating itself. The 2017 version is in every bit a mimic of the original thanks to the recent redesign which offer more classic styling and superb power. It also has good handling and top-notch interior. The 5.0-litre V8 in this model is an excellent performance choice.
4. Volkswagen Golf R
While a majority of the car enthusiasts are familiar with the Golf GTI, one of the pioneering hot-hatch cars, Golf R is a more powerful model. Like GTI, it offers a DSG dual clutch gearbox and traditional manual transmission. With its 292-hp 2.0-litre engine, DCC adaptive dampers and standard all-wheel drive it is way more powerful than GTI. On top of this, Golf R has a total seating capacity of 5, 25 mpg combined EPA fuel economy and a 22.8 cubic feet trunk. The only downside is the unstable steering but generally, it's hard to fault this model. It blends the upscale demeanour with top performance.
5. Mercedes-Benz AMG C63
Mercedes-Benz AMG C63 is a luxury performance car with a stable straight-line acceleration. It offers a 469 hp and a howling exhaust note. In addition to this, it delivers luxury and sport in equal measures. Actually, its level of sophistication and luxury is matched to the best models. It has a fairly good handling though it is still not comparable to BMW M3.
6. Chevrolet Corvette
Chevrolet Corvette is a 2-seater luxury sports car. This model is incredibly fast and delivers top-notch performance. Considering its performance level, the Corvette is a great bargain. You would normally need to spend more for other top models coupe with similar performance level. On top of this, the all-aluminium construction boosts the body strength while saving on weight. This rear wheel drive offers several high-tech options such as built-in data logger and flexible dampers.
7. Land Rover Evoque Convertible
The newer version of Evoque compact crossover goes topless in 2017. Just like the new Range Rover Velar, the Evoque Convertible is a high performance vehicle and is almost similar to the fixed-roof Evoque version. However, you will find added features and minor improvements such as tablet-like infotainment system. Its fabric roof can lower in less than 18 seconds while the dual aluminum bars offer additional protections to the occupants in instances of a rollover. What you might love most about the Evoque Convertible are the 2.0-litre 240 horsepower engine and its nine-speed automatic transmission.
8. Honda Civic Type R
The latest Civic Type R features a superb hatch tech. Type R shares a lot with the previous model. It has front-wheel drive, 2.0-litre turbo engine, and six-speed manual gearbox. Its chassis has refined to deliver a sharper drive.
9. Jaguar F-Type
Jaguar F-Type is one of the best sports cars that can form a deep connection with its drivers. This 2 seat crossover SUV has so many likable things. Some of the top features of this model are the elegant interior, stunning styling for both coupe and convertible, and a powerful V6 and V8 engines. It is available in both rear and all-wheel drive.
10. BMW M4
Another luxury performance car is BMW M4. It is actually the two-door version of the iconic sports sedan, M3. What is outstanding about M4 is the way it grips the road, high-luxe interior as well as its outstanding chassis. It has a roomy back seat, which is not typical for a two-door car. Irrespective of whether slogging through your daily commute or ripping up the track, M4 is a reliable coupe.
Conclusion
Any car enthusiast would appreciate a quality performance car if an opportunity presents itself. Luckily, there are many options that fit various lifestyle and budget. I hope that you will find your best fit from the above list. Whichever the model you choose, it is advisable to go for advanced driving training if you want to get the most out of these cars.
