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The Bold and the Beautiful is bracing for a seismic shift as a “Tragic Death” looms over the Forrester family. “One Death. Endless Consequences” is the tagline for a storyline that promises to change Forrester Creations forever. While the identity of the deceased is being kept a closely guarded secret, the impact of their passing will ripple through every character and every storyline. This loss is not just a personal tragedy for Ridge, Steffy, and Brooke; it is a corporate earthquake that will leave the fashion empire vulnerable to takeover and internal strife. The death is described as “Tragic,” suggesting it may be sudden or the result of a long-fought battle that finally ends in heartbreak. As the family gathers to mourn, long-standing rivalries are put aside, but only for a moment. The vacancy left by this individual creates a power vacuum that several characters are already looking to fill. The emotional weight of the scenes is heavy, as the characters grapple with the reality of their own mortality and the loss of a foundational member of their community. This event marks the end of an era for B&B, leading to a total restructuring of the show’s dynamic. Fans are preparing for a series of powerful performances as the cast portrays the raw grief and the difficult choices that follow a major loss. The “Endless Consequences” include a new set of alliances, a series of legal battles over the legacy, and a fundamental shift in the moral fabric of the show.
Navigating the Evolving Landscape of Premium Sedans and SUVs: Expert Insights for the Discerning U.S. Buyer in 2025
The automotive market, particularly the premium segment, is a dynamic arena where innovation, luxury, and performance constantly redefine expectations. As we navigate 2025, discerning buyers in the United States are presented with an array of compelling options, each vying for attention with unique strengths and value propositions. For the seasoned industry observer, it’s a fascinating period characterized by the continued push for electrification, sophisticated technology integration, and an ever-increasing focus on personalized driving experiences. This analysis, drawing on a decade of industry experience, delves into some of the most noteworthy premium sedans and SUVs available to the U.S. market this year, highlighting their key features, competitive positioning, and potential appeal to those seeking more than just transportation.
The Compact Premium Sedan Segment: Value and Performance Reimagined
Within the compact premium sedan category, where 2025 Cadillac CT4 buyers often seek a blend of attainable luxury and spirited driving, the landscape is particularly intriguing. While the enthusiast-focused CT4-V and the ultra-performance CT4-V Blackwing undoubtedly steal headlines, the core CT4 models offer substantial appeal. The availability of the potent 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering a robust 310 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque in the Premium Luxury trim, provides acceleration that belies its segment. Achieving a 0-60 mph sprint in around 4.8 seconds is a testament to Cadillac’s engineering prowess in this compact offering. This performance often surprises those who might otherwise dismiss a premium sedan in this class.
For those prioritizing efficiency, the standard engine in the 2025 Cadillac CT4 delivers a commendable 237 horsepower and can achieve up to 26 MPG combined, according to EPA estimates. This balance of performance and economy makes the CT4 a compelling choice for daily commuting and weekend excursions alike. However, it’s important to acknowledge that some industry reviews have pointed to interior material quality and overall refinement that may not consistently match the lofty standards set by key rivals. Competitors such as the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe, Acura Integra, and the Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class often present interiors that some critics deem more opulent or feature-rich at similar price points. Nevertheless, the CT4, with its distinctive styling and engaging driving dynamics, carves out a strong niche for buyers prioritizing American luxury with a performance edge. The Cadillac CT4 price point, starting around $34,995, also positions it as a gateway to premium segment entry.
The Mid-Size Three-Row SUV: Practicality Meets Refinement
Transitioning to the realm of family-oriented vehicles, the 2025 Mazda CX-90 emerges as a standout option for those who value space, practicality, and a touch of upscale design. Mazda has consistently demonstrated an ability to imbue its vehicles with a premium feel, and the CX-90 is no exception. This mid-sized, three-row SUV boasts a refined and surprisingly upscale interior, a hallmark of Mazda’s recent design philosophy. Under the hood, the sophisticated inline-six engine produces a healthy 280 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque in its base configuration, providing ample power for confident acceleration and highway cruising.
What truly elevates the CX-90 is its driving dynamics. Despite its substantial size, the vehicle exhibits remarkable agility and responsiveness. The steering is precise and communicative, and the suspension tuning strikes an excellent balance between comfort and control. This translates into a driving experience that feels more engaging and less cumbersome than many of its three-row SUV rivals. Standard amenities include leatherette-trimmed seats and the comprehensive i-ACTIVSENSE safety suite, ensuring peace of mind for families. Options like a panoramic sunroof and a hands-free tailgate further enhance convenience. With seating for up to eight passengers, the Mazda CX-90 family SUV is an exceptionally practical choice. It’s worth noting its close relationship with the Mazda CX-70, a model that sacrifices the third row for a slightly different styling and a marginally higher price point. The Mazda CX-90 starting MSRP of $38,800 represents strong value for a vehicle offering such a blend of luxury and utility.
The Underrated Luxury Sedans: Finding Unconventional Excellence
In the pursuit of luxury and refinement, buyers often gravitate towards established names. However, several models in 2025 offer exceptional value and a refined experience that deserves broader recognition. The 2025 Toyota Crown is a prime example of an underrated luxury vehicle. While Toyota’s core brand is associated with mass-market appeal, the Crown injects a dose of Lexus-like luxury and design sophistication into the lineup. This uniquely styled, elevated sedan offers a distinctive profile that sets it apart from conventional sedans. Interior reviews consistently praise its Lexus-inspired design and high-quality materials, creating an ambiance of premium comfort.
The hybrid powertrain in the Crown delivers a combined 236 horsepower, capable of reaching 60 mph in approximately seven seconds. For those seeking more spirited performance, the top-tier Platinum trim boasts the Hybrid Max system, producing a formidable 340 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque. This variant shaves two seconds off the 0-60 mph time and utilizes a conventional automatic transmission, enhancing the driving experience. All Crown models come standard with all-wheel drive, further bolstering their appeal in diverse driving conditions. For those who prefer a crossover silhouette, the Toyota Crown Signia variant offers a more SUV-like form factor. The Toyota Crown price, starting at $41,440, positions it as a compelling alternative to more conventional luxury sedans, offering understated elegance and hybrid efficiency.
Similarly, the 2025 Lexus IS presents a compelling case for those seeking a compact executive sedan that blends comfort with a surprisingly engaging driving experience. Often overshadowed by its German counterparts, the IS offers a refined ride, a meticulously crafted interior with premium materials, and a generous array of standard features, including Lexus’s renowned safety suite. While its brand prestige might not resonate as strongly with some buyers as a BMW or Mercedes-Benz, and its driving dynamics may be softer than the sportiest German offerings, the IS excels in providing a supremely comfortable and well-appointed cabin.
The 2025 model year offers a range of powertrains, from a turbocharged four-cylinder to a V6, and the highly sought-after 5.0-liter V8 in the IS 500 F Sport Performance. The 2026 model year sees a significant refresh, introducing updated exterior styling, an enhanced interior with a larger 12.3-inch infotainment display, and a fully digital instrument cluster. A notable shift for 2026 is the streamlining of the lineup to primarily feature the IS 350 with its 311-horsepower, naturally aspirated V6 engine, a move that will undoubtedly please V6 enthusiasts. This configuration can achieve 0-60 mph in the five-second range. Currently, Lexus continues to advertise the 2025 model for U.S. customers, offering a blend of proven performance and enduring luxury. The Lexus IS price starts around $41,830, making it a strong contender in the premium compact sedan segment.
The Value Proposition in Luxury: Genesis’s Bold Entry
Genesis continues to disrupt the premium automotive landscape by offering compelling alternatives to established luxury brands, often at a more accessible Genesis G70 price point. The 2025 Genesis G70 sedan stands as a testament to this strategy, directly challenging the likes of the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class, which command significantly higher starting prices. The G70 manages to undercut these German stalwarts while delivering an upscale interior brimming with premium materials and desirable features, such as optional heated and ventilated seats. Its agile chassis and potent turbocharged engines further enhance its appeal.
The range-topping 3.3-liter twin-turbo V6, producing 365 horsepower, propels the G70 from 0 to 60 mph in an impressive 4.5 seconds, rivaling performance figures from much more expensive vehicles. Despite its strong performance and luxury accoutrements, the G70 is sometimes overlooked due to a perceived lack of brand heritage and concerns about its dealer network or long-term reliability. However, for buyers focused on the immediate experience, the downsides are minimal. Some reviews have noted its fuel economy, with the base four-cylinder model achieving an EPA-estimated 24 MPG combined, which is less efficient than some competitors like the BMW 330i. Nevertheless, the 2025 Genesis G70 offers an exceptional blend of style, performance, and luxury for its segment, providing a compelling value proposition for those seeking to deviate from the conventional.
The Elevated SUV Experience: Comfort and Grandeur
For those prioritizing an elevated driving position coupled with true luxury, the SUV segment offers a wealth of choices in 2025. The 2025 Lincoln Nautilus represents a significant step forward for the brand, promising a genuinely luxurious interior experience. High-end materials, an extensive suite of advanced active safety features, and a remarkably comfortable ride are hallmarks of the Nautilus. The dashboard is dominated by an impressive 48-inch screen, and the exterior design is both refined and commanding. While the Lincoln badge may not carry the same cachet as some European luxury brands, the Nautilus delivers substantial value.
The driving experience is focused on serene comfort rather than razor-sharp dynamics, and the hybrid powertrain contributes to an incredibly smooth and quiet operation. The engine sounds distant, creating an almost ethereal sense of isolation from the road. While rivals like the BMW X7 are considerably more expensive, the Nautilus offers a similarly opulent experience for a more accessible Lincoln Nautilus price, starting at $53,995. The powertrain is limited to a 250-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder paired with an eight-speed automatic and all-wheel drive. A hybrid option is also available, boosting output to 310 horsepower, further enhancing its appeal for those seeking a more potent and efficient driving experience.
Another strong contender in the premium SUV space is the 2025 Genesis GV80. Despite its many merits and distinctive design, the GV80 often finds itself in the shadow of more established European brands, partly due to brand heritage and the perception that a lower price point might imply lesser luxury. However, starting at under $60,000, the GV80 offers a remarkably plush cabin, high-quality materials, an original design, and an abundance of features. These include a 27-inch dashboard screen, heated seats, wireless phone charging, ambient lighting, and a powered tailgate.
The engine options are equally impressive, featuring a 300-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder or a potent 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 producing 375 horsepower. This V6 allows the GV80 to accelerate to 60 mph in under six seconds, placing it squarely in contention with larger, more expensive SUVs like the BMW X7. The Genesis GV80 price, starting at $57,700, makes it an exceptional choice for buyers seeking opulence and a refined SUV experience without the premium associated with a traditional luxury badge.
The Sophisticated Sedan: A Blend of Safety and Style
While its presence in the U.S. market for the 2025 model year is uncertain, the 2025 Volvo S90 warrants mention as an underrated luxury option that typically offers a more competitive price than some key rivals. Historically, the S90 has been praised for its safety, elegant Scandinavian design, and relatively luxurious appointments. However, it has faced criticisms regarding ride and powertrain refinement, as well as certain interior features compared to its competition. Brand positioning also plays a role in its market perception. Nevertheless, the S90 is a competent, safe, and comfortable sedan.
Features often include heated seats, a panoramic sunroof, standard all-wheel drive, and a selection of upscale interior materials. The base four-cylinder engine, while not thrilling, provides a respectable 295 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, with an EPA-rated 26 MPG combined. The plug-in hybrid variant, typically found in T8 models, is a revelation, combining a turbocharged and supercharged four-cylinder with electric motors to produce an impressive 455 horsepower and 523 pound-feet of torque, achieving an EPA-rated 66 MPGe combined. This powertrain also enables a swift 0-60 mph time of around four seconds, a delightful surprise for eco-conscious performance enthusiasts.
The Benchmark Premium Sedan: BMW’s Enduring Appeal
The 2025 BMW 5 Series continues to represent a benchmark in the premium sedan segment, offering a blend of performance, luxury, and technology that has solidified its status for decades. Even the base 530i model, starting at a respectable BMW 5 Series price just under $60,000, delivers a premium experience that can be considered an underrated entry into the luxury German sedan club. The competitive nature of this segment means that while the 5 Series offers considerable value, some interior appointments might not feel as cutting-edge as those in certain rivals, particularly when considering brands like Genesis.
The standard 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine in the 530i produces 255 horsepower, offering adequate performance for most daily driving needs, while its EPA-rated 31 MPG combined figure is commendably efficient. Acceleration to 60 mph is achievable in the five-second range. As expected from a BMW, the interior is spacious, and the perceived quality of materials and craftsmanship aligns with the brand’s high standards. Refinement and ride comfort are consistently praised, embodying the core tenets of the iconic 5 Series. For those seeking enhanced performance, the 540i xDrive, priced around $67,000, features a potent 375-horsepower inline-six engine, providing a more exhilarating driving experience for those who desire it.
The Pinnacle of Grand Touring: Uncompromising Style and Performance
At the apex of the luxury automotive spectrum, the 2025 Lexus LC stands as a testament to automotive artistry, offering an unparalleled blend of stunning design, luxurious comfort, and potent V8 performance. This flagship coupe and convertible, a fixture since 2018, commands a significant price tag, with the coupe starting just over $100,000 and the convertible adding an additional $8,000. What truly sets the LC apart, especially in 2025, is its naturally aspirated V8 engine – a rarity in today’s automotive landscape. This legendary “UR” V8, also found in the now-discontinued RC F and the soon-to-be-retired IS 500 F Sport Performance, delivers an intoxicating soundtrack and a visceral driving experience.
The LC 500 is more than just an engine; it’s an experience. The sound of the V8 coming to life is evocative, promising a journey that is both exhilarating and refined. On the outside, its elegant lines are matched by an interior that exudes plushness and attention to detail. Features include Lexus’s Safety System+ 2.5, a glass roof with a sunshade, eight-way power-adjustable heated and ventilated front seats, and a premium 12-speaker sound system. While its rear-wheel-drive setup and V8 power suggest outright sportiness, the LC is engineered as a grand tourer. Its dynamics are restrained rather than aggressively sharp, prioritizing comfort and composure over track-day prowess. The Lexus LC price and its emphasis on comfortable dynamics, alongside the absence of a manual transmission option, might lead some to perceive it as underrated compared to more overtly sporty luxury cars. However, for those who appreciate its unique blend of aesthetic beauty, sonic allure, and luxurious comfort, the 2025 Lexus LC remains an undeniable masterpiece and a compelling choice for discerning buyers.
As the automotive landscape continues its rapid evolution, the premium segment in 2025 offers an unprecedented array of choices for the discerning U.S. consumer. From compact sedans that punch above their weight in performance to three-row SUVs that redefine family practicality, and from surprisingly value-packed luxury sedans to the ultimate expressions of grand touring, there is a vehicle tailored to nearly every desire. Understanding the nuances of each offering, considering both the advertised specifications and the real-world experience, is key to making an informed decision.
If you’re ready to explore these exceptional vehicles further and discover which one best aligns with your personal driving aspirations and lifestyle needs, we encourage you to connect with a trusted automotive advisor. They can provide personalized insights, arrange test drives, and guide you through the complexities of financing and ownership, ensuring your journey into the world of premium automobiles is as rewarding as the destination itself.
