2009 Car of the Year: Luxury Car Over $50,000

Nov 01, 2008

Special to The Star

The race seemed snug in the Best New Luxury Car over $50,000. After driving the Lincoln MKS, the Acura RL and the Audi A4, I came away thinking there are happy customers for all three.

It just depends if you prefer a creamy ride, or performance with pleasure.

Lincoln MKS

It felt like the big cat in this group. The space inside is presidential, including the first-class lounge in the back, and a trunk that could swallow a lot of Samsonite.

With a V6 capable of 273 hp, the MKS has some sprint-worthy speed but it's a car for cruisin' and groovin'. The suspension won't disturb your good vibes, it levitates over bad pavement with ease.

Instruments are bright and readable, and the interior has nailed the North American luxury styling cues.

It's number three on my list not because of any big faults, it's just not my scene.

Price as tested: $55,179

Acura RL

The Acura RL is a surprise. It looks and feels smaller than the MKS, but it weighs more, costs more at $69,500 and gets the worst mileage of the three. (13.1 L/100 km city 9.0 L/100 km highway).

Throttle response is brisk, handling is refined, and the driving experience is lively, especially when the paddle shifters are pressed into action.

It's mostly good karma in the driver's seat, but my set up meant the A pillars intruded on visibility. I gave it the number two spot because the Audi A4 physically fits me better and is cheaper.

Price as tested: $69,500

winner: Audi A4

The A4 combo of driver's position, angle of windshield and slope of the hood makes it feel soul-mated to the road and increases the sensation of speed, though it has the lowest horsepower of the group at 211.

It had the best road feel, responsive steering and flat cornering of the three, a seductive package for $54,300.

From exterior to interior it is classic Audi "less is more" styling, tight and swanky like a Spanx body suit. All the lines, creases, and bits of bright work serve a clear purpose – and then the party starts when the come-hither headlights fire up.

It's my Number One because it's fun to drive, the cheapest, and thoroughly modern. It was the category winner.

Price as tested: $54,300

Toronto Star