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The upcoming episode of The Bold and the Beautiful on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, is set to be a landmark broadcast that moves several major storylines into high gear. The weekly preview highlights a series of confrontations and revelations that will leave the residents of Los Angeles reeling. At the center of the drama is the ongoing conflict at Forrester Creations, where a new design challenge creates a rift between the lead designers. Meanwhile, the Spencer family deals with the fallout from a recent decision that has left their publishing empire in a precarious position. The preview also hints at a romantic surprise that goes horribly wrong, leading to a public scene that will be talked about for weeks. Fans are particularly excited about a scene involving Brooke and Ridge, as they find themselves at odds over a family matter involving their children. The pacing of the January 13 episode is described as “breathless,” with each scene building tension toward a final cliffhanger. This preview serves as an essential guide for viewers, offering a glimpse into the emotional highs and lows that define the world of B&B. From corporate boardrooms to private bedrooms, the drama is inescapable. As the characters face the consequences of their actions, the lines between loyalty and betrayal become increasingly blurred. This specific Tuesday episode is a critical turning point in the winter narrative, setting the stage for a series of events that will dominate the show for the remainder of the month.
Beyond the Badge: Unveiling the Top Underrated Luxury Vehicles of 2025
For a decade now, navigating the labyrinthine landscape of the automotive industry, I’ve witnessed a recurring theme: the pervasive allure of prestige brands often eclipses genuine substance. While established giants command unwavering loyalty, a quiet revolution is underway. Manufacturers are consistently delivering vehicles that not only match, but in many aspects, surpass their more vaunted competitors, all while offering a compelling value proposition. As we delve into the 2025 model year, the concept of an underrated luxury car isn’t just a niche consideration; it’s a smart strategy for discerning buyers seeking excellence without the premium for perception alone.
This isn’t about settling for less. It’s about recognizing innovation, refined engineering, and thoughtfully appointed interiors that may not come with the ubiquitous badges of German automakers, but deliver an equally, if not more, satisfying ownership experience. From the spirited dynamics of a compact sedan to the commanding presence of a three-row SUV, the automotive world in 2025 is rich with value luxury vehicles that deserve a closer look. We’ll explore the contenders, dissecting their strengths, and understanding why they represent a smarter path to automotive satisfaction.
The Compact Corner: Sophistication in Smaller Packages
The segment of compact premium sedans is fiercely contested, with established players often taking center stage. However, the 2025 Cadillac CT4 demonstrates that American luxury can offer a compelling blend of performance and sophistication, particularly for those who appreciate a spirited drive. While the CT4-V and the track-focused CT4-V Blackwing garner significant enthusiast attention, the broader CT4 lineup offers substantial appeal.
The heart of the matter for many is the powertrain. The availability of the potent 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 325 horsepower in the CT4-V and a still-impressive 310 horsepower with 350 pound-feet of torque in the Premium Luxury trim, imbues the CT4 with genuine performance. This translates to a brisk 0-60 mph sprint of around 4.8 seconds, a figure that belies its compact stature. For those prioritizing fuel efficiency, the standard 237-horsepower engine delivers a respectable 26 MPG combined rating according to EPA estimates, making it a viable daily driver.
However, in this segment, interior refinement is paramount. While some critics have pointed out that the CT4’s cabin doesn’t quite reach the lofty heights set by rivals like the BMW 2-Series Gran Coupe, Acura Integra, or the Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class, it’s crucial to consider the price differential. For its starting MSRP of $34,995, the CT4 offers a well-appointed interior that prioritizes driver engagement and comfort. It’s a strong argument for an affordable luxury sedan that doesn’t compromise on the core elements of a premium driving experience.
Three Rows, Infinite Value: Family-Focused Excellence
When the need for space and practicality arises, the mid-sized, three-row SUV segment becomes the battleground. Here, the 2025 Mazda CX-90 emerges as a remarkably refined and, dare I say, underrated contender. Mazda has long been known for imbuing its vehicles with a sense of driving pleasure, and the CX-90 is no exception, even in its family-hauling guise.
The interior is a standout, showcasing Mazda’s commitment to upscale design and material quality. It rivals vehicles from far more expensive brands, creating an atmosphere of sophisticated comfort for all passengers. Underpinning this refinement is a robust inline-six engine that, in its base configurations, delivers a healthy 280 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque. This powerplant provides ample motivation, and when you push the CX-90, its handling dynamics truly impress. The steering is precise, the body control is tight, and the vehicle feels remarkably agile for its size, shrinking around the driver as the pace quickens. This is a testament to Mazda’s engineering prowess, offering a surprisingly engaging driving experience for an SUV.
Standard features are generous, with leatherette-trimmed seats and the comprehensive i-ACTIVSENSE safety suite ensuring peace of mind. Options like a panoramic sunroof and a hands-free tailgate add further convenience. With seating for up to eight, the CX-90 is a highly practical choice. It’s also worth noting its close kinship with the Mazda CX-70, a slightly pricier sibling that sacrifices the third row for altered styling and trim. The CX-90, however, remains the undisputed champion for those prioritizing space and a refined journey, making it a top pick among value SUVs.
The Elevated Sedan: Where Comfort Meets Camry DNA
The concept of a “luxury” Toyota might seem counterintuitive to some, but the 2025 Toyota Crown is meticulously designed to challenge that perception. This resurrected nameplate, returning as a distinctively styled, slightly elevated sedan, offers a unique proposition in the automotive market. For those who appreciate a Lexus-like interior and design ethos but prefer the discreet reliability and accessibility of the Toyota badge, the Crown is an absolute revelation. It’s an underrated luxury vehicle that flies deliberately under the radar.
The hybrid powertrain, producing a respectable 236 horsepower, is smooth and efficient, enabling it to reach 60 mph in approximately seven seconds. However, for those seeking more dynamism, the range-topping Platinum trim, equipped with the Hybrid Max system, significantly ups the ante. This configuration churns out a potent 340 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque, shaving a full two seconds off the 0-60 mph run. A standard automatic transmission, rather than a CVT, adds to the driving engagement, and all Crown models benefit from standard all-wheel drive, a valuable feature in varying conditions. For those drawn to the Crown’s sophisticated appeal but desiring a more traditional crossover silhouette, the Toyota Crown Signia variant offers a compelling alternative. This makes the Crown a truly versatile option in the luxury sedan market.
Refined Agility: A Sporty Sedan’s Quiet Triumph
In the compact executive sedan segment, the 2025 Lexus IS consistently operates in the shadow of its more overtly prestigious German rivals. This often stems from a perceived lack of brand cachet and, at times, a driving dynamic that, while comfortable, may not be as sharp as the segment leaders. However, to dismiss the IS solely on these grounds would be a disservice to its considerable merits.
The IS offers a supremely comfortable ride, a hallmark of Lexus engineering, coupled with an interior crafted from premium materials. It’s a cabin designed for indulgence and features Lexus’s renowned suite of advanced safety technologies as standard. For 2025, the model continues to offer a range of powertrains, from efficient turbocharged four-cylinders to a potent V6. While the upcoming 2026 refresh brings updated styling and a larger infotainment screen, it’s important to note that the range will be streamlined to the IS 350, featuring a 311-horsepower naturally aspirated V6 – a move that will undoubtedly please V6 enthusiasts, with 0-60 mph times in the five-second bracket. Currently, the 2025 model remains a strong contender, representing a premium compact car that offers a sophisticated and serene driving experience.
The Value Challenger: Korean Luxury Ascendant
The 2025 Genesis G70 represents a paradigm shift in the luxury automotive landscape, showcasing how a newer brand can consistently challenge established European titans like the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class. What sets the G70 apart is its ability to deliver a comparable, and in many areas superior, luxury experience at a significantly more accessible price point. Starting well below its German counterparts, the G70 offers an opulent interior appointed with premium materials, including optional heated and ventilated seats, and a chassis engineered for agile handling.
Powertrain options are equally compelling. The turbocharged four-cylinder base engine offers adequate performance, but for those seeking true exhilaration, the 3.3-liter twin-turbo V6, producing a formidable 365 horsepower, propels the G70 from 0 to 60 mph in a blistering 4.5 seconds. This level of performance, combined with its upscale amenities, makes the G70 a true luxury sports sedan bargain.
While its relative youth means it may lack the decades of brand heritage, the G70’s downsides are few. Some reviews have noted its fuel economy figures, particularly for the four-cylinder, which can trail competitors. However, the overall package – the blend of performance, luxury, and value – makes the G70 a standout choice, particularly for those seeking a performance luxury car that doesn’t demand a king’s ransom.
American Opulence, Reimagined: The Refined American SUV
Lincoln has long been synonymous with American luxury, and the 2025 Lincoln Nautilus is a prime example of the brand’s modern interpretation of opulence and comfort. Choosing the Nautilus guarantees an interior that oozes high-end materials, an advanced suite of active safety features, and a ride quality that is exceptionally comfortable. The dashboard is dominated by a striking 48-inch panoramic display, and the exterior presents a refined, imposing presence.
While rivals from German brands may command more prestige, the Nautilus delivers exceptional value for money. The driving experience is nothing short of luxurious, even if its dynamic prowess doesn’t quite match the razor-sharp responses of some competitors. The hybrid powertrain is a particular highlight, offering an incredibly smooth and quiet operation, with the engine seeming to work remotely, a testament to its advanced design.
The Nautilus offers a compelling alternative to more expensive luxury SUVs like the BMW X7. While its drivetrain is limited to a 250-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder paired with an eight-speed automatic and all-wheel drive in its standard configuration, a more potent 310-horsepower hybrid version is also available, providing a significant boost in performance. For those seeking a luxury SUV with a comfortable ride and an abundance of technology, the Nautilus presents a strong case.
The Unsung Hero of Korean Luxury SUVs
Genesis has quickly established itself as a formidable player in the luxury automotive space, and the 2025 Genesis GV80 is a testament to this success. Despite its many merits and distinctive design, it often finds itself overshadowed by established European brands, a situation exacerbated by the common misconception that a lower price point equates to lesser luxury. However, at just under $60,000, the GV80 offers an exceptionally plush cabin, premium materials, and an abundance of cutting-edge features, including a 27-inch dash-mounted screen, heated seats, wireless phone charging, and ambient lighting.
The engine options are equally impressive, featuring a 300-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder and a potent 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 delivering 375 horsepower. The latter can accelerate the GV80, which is based on the G80 sedan platform, to 60 mph in under six seconds, putting it squarely in competition with luxury titans like the BMW X7. The GV80 is a superb choice for those who desire true opulence in their sports utility vehicle and are willing to forgo the badge prestige for a more sensible price. It redefines what a luxury SUV value can be.
Scandinavian Serenity: A Quietly Competent European Option
While no longer on sale in the United States for the 2025 model year, the 2025 Volvo S90 deserves mention as a notably underrated luxury option that, when available, offered competitive pricing against key rivals. Certain reviews have noted areas where it doesn’t quite match the refinement of its segment peers, such as in ride comfort or powertrain smoothness, and criticisms have also been leveled at its trunk space and feature set compared to the competition.
However, the S90’s Scandinavian design language, coupled with Volvo’s unwavering commitment to safety, provides a distinct appeal. It’s a competent, safe, and relatively luxurious sedan. Standard features often included heated seats, a panoramic sunroof, and all-wheel drive, alongside a generous application of upscale materials throughout the cabin. The base four-cylinder engine, while not thrilling, offers a respectable 295 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, achieving an EPA-rated 26 MPG combined. For those seeking electrifying performance, the plug-in hybrid T8 variant is truly remarkable, combining a turbocharged and supercharged four-cylinder with electric motors to produce a staggering 455 horsepower and 523 pound-feet of torque, achieving a 66-MPGe combined rating and a thrilling 0-60 mph time in the four-second range. This makes it a potent, albeit specific, performance hybrid sedan.
The Accessible German Icon: Entry into the Elite Club
The 2025 BMW 5 Series is a perennial favorite, but often overlooked is how accessible its entry-level models are, positioning it as an “underrated luxury sedan,” especially the 530i variant. While the segment is incredibly competitive, the 5 Series starts at a reasonable price point, well under $60,000, offering a gateway into the prestigious German luxury sedan club. Some interior appointments might not match the absolute pinnacle of the segment, especially when considering the value offered by brands like Genesis, but the overall package remains compelling.
The base 530i’s 255-horsepower engine is adequate for most daily driving needs, and its EPA-rated 31 MPG combined figure is commendable, with 0-60 mph achieved in the five-second range. The interior space and perceived quality are unmistakably BMW, embodying the refinement and ride comfort that are cornerstones of the iconic 5 Series. For those seeking more power, the $67,000 540i xDrive boasts a 375-horsepower inline-six engine, providing a significant performance upgrade. It represents a solid choice for a luxury sedan for sale that balances prestige with practical considerations.
The Pinnacle of Style and Substance: A Grand Tourer’s Enduring Appeal
The 2025 Lexus LC stands as a beacon of automotive artistry – a flagship coupe and convertible that has captivated enthusiasts since its debut. As the most expensive vehicle in Lexus’s lineup, starting just over $100,000 for the coupe (with the convertible adding an additional $8,000), it commands a significant price. However, what it offers in return is a rare and magnificent naturally aspirated V8 engine, a powerplant increasingly scarce in today’s automotive landscape. This “UR” V8, also found in the soon-to-be-discontinued RC F and IS 500 F Sport Performance, delivers a visceral and engaging auditory and driving experience.
The LC 500 is a masterpiece of design, both inside and out. The interior is sumptuously appointed, featuring Lexus’s Safety System+ 2.5, a glass roof, heated and ventilated front seats, and a premium 12-speaker audio system. While its grand touring focus means its dynamics are more about comfortable cruising than outright track performance, its rear-wheel-drive chassis and potent V8 ensure it can hold its own. The LC’s high price, lack of a manual transmission option, and more comfort-oriented dynamics might lead some to label it as underrated when compared to more overtly sporty luxury rivals. However, in 2025, its exquisite styling, exceptional V8 engine, and luxurious appointments make it a truly special and desirable vehicle, representing the zenith of high-performance luxury coupes.
Your Next Drive Awaits
The automotive landscape of 2025 is richer and more diverse than ever, offering exceptional value and performance well beyond the most obvious choices. These underrated luxury vehicles represent an intelligent approach to automotive acquisition, prioritizing substance, engineering, and thoughtful design.
If you’re ready to move beyond the expected and discover the true meaning of value in luxury cars, we invite you to explore these compelling options further. Schedule a test drive, consult with automotive specialists, and experience firsthand the quality and performance that these exceptional vehicles deliver. Your perfect blend of luxury and value is waiting to be discovered.
