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In a development that will forever be remembered as one of the most significant moments in daytime television history, Brooke Forrester is dead. The news of a sudden and catastrophic plane crash has brought the world of The Bold and the Beautiful to a standstill. Brooke, the matriarch and the heart of so many legendary storylines, was traveling on a private jet when the aircraft disappeared from radar over the ocean. Search and rescue teams later confirmed the worst, finding wreckage that left no hope for survivors. The impact of this loss on Ridge, Hope, and the entire Forrester and Logan clans is immeasurable. Brooke was a force of nature, a woman who loved deeply and fought fiercely for her family, and her absence leaves a void that can never be filled. As the characters gather to process the tragedy, long-standing feuds are momentarily silenced by the sheer weight of the grief. However, the corporate and personal consequences are already beginning to surface. Without Brooke’s stabilizing influence, the power balance at Forrester Creations is in jeopardy, and her rivals may soon look to capitalize on the family’s vulnerability. The show is preparing a series of tribute episodes to honor her legacy, reflecting on decades of romance, scandal, and resilience. For the fans, the “End of Her Story” feels like the loss of a close friend, and the emotional fallout from this plane crash will dominate the narrative for years to come, redefining the show’s future without its most iconic leading lady.
Beyond the Sticker Price: Navigating the Underrated Luxury Car Landscape of 2025
In the dynamic and ever-evolving automotive market of 2025, the pursuit of luxury often conjures images of established German marques and their formidable presence. Yet, beneath the radar of mainstream luxury perception lies a fascinating array of vehicles that offer exceptional value, refined driving experiences, and sophisticated amenities without demanding the astronomical premiums associated with brand ubiquity. For the discerning buyer seeking an intelligent investment in automotive excellence, understanding these often-overlooked gems is paramount. As an industry expert with a decade of immersion in this sector, I’ve observed firsthand how certain models consistently punch above their weight, delivering a premium experience that rivals, and in some cases surpasses, their more celebrated counterparts. This exploration delves into a curated selection of these underrated luxury vehicles, examining their strengths, pinpointing areas where they excel, and highlighting their compelling value propositions for the modern American consumer.
Our journey begins with a closer look at a compact sedan that often finds itself overshadowed by its more aggressive V-series siblings: the 2025 Cadillac CT4. While enthusiasts rightfully laud the track-honed prowess of the CT4-V and the formidable CT4-V Blackwing, the standard CT4 offers a compelling entry point into Cadillac’s refined world. The heart of the matter for many is performance, and the CT4 doesn’t disappoint. While the base engine churns out a respectable 237 horsepower, providing an EPA-rated 26 MPG combined – a figure that speaks to the increasing efficiency in this segment – the real value emerges in the Premium Luxury trim. Here, the same robust 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine, albeit with a slight recalibration to 310 horsepower and a stout 350 pound-feet of torque, propels the CT4 with an eagerness that belies its class. This potent combination translates to a brisk 0-60 mph sprint in approximately 4.8 seconds, a performance metric that firmly plants the CT4 among its sportier competitors.
However, the CT4’s appeal extends beyond raw acceleration. While some road tests have noted that its interior quality might not always reach the lofty standards set by segment titans like the BMW 2-Series Gran Coupe, Acura Integra, or the Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class, it’s crucial to contextualize this. The CT4 offers a distinctly American take on premium, prioritizing comfort and a user-friendly interface over ostentatious displays. For those prioritizing a refined driving experience and a capable powertrain in a compact luxury sedan, the Cadillac CT4 price represents a significant opportunity to enter the premium segment without compromise. Savvy shoppers looking for a luxury sedan under $40,000 will find the CT4 an exceptionally attractive proposition, especially when considering its performance credentials and the allure of American luxury.
Transitioning from the compact executive class to the realm of versatile family transport, the 2025 Mazda CX-90 emerges as a truly underrated contender in the mid-sized, three-row SUV market. Mazda, a brand increasingly recognized for its commitment to driver engagement and upscale interiors, has delivered a masterclass in refinement and practicality with the CX-90. This isn’t just another lumbering SUV; it’s a vehicle that prioritizes a sophisticated driving experience alongside its substantial passenger-carrying capacity. The standard inline-six engine, a rarity in this segment, outputs a healthy 280 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque, providing ample power for daily commutes and highway journeys alike.
What truly sets the CX-90 apart, however, is its dynamic prowess. As road tests frequently highlight, this SUV possesses a remarkable ability to feel smaller and more agile than its dimensions suggest, a testament to its precise and fluid steering, buttoned-down suspension, and sophisticated body control. This translates to a confident and enjoyable driving experience, even when fully loaded. Inside, the CX-90 offers a cabin that exudes quality, with standard leatherette-trimmed seats and Mazda’s comprehensive i-ACTIVSENSE safety suite. Options like a panoramic sunroof and a hands-free tailgate further enhance its practicality. With seating for up to eight, it’s an ideal choice for growing families. It’s worth noting the existence of the closely related Mazda CX-70, which shares much of the CX-90’s DNA but foregoes the third row for a sportier silhouette and a slightly higher price point. For those seeking three-row SUVs with luxury features and an engaging driving dynamic, the Mazda CX-90 cost presents an exceptional value proposition.
Shifting our focus to a segment where Toyota is often perceived as a mainstream player, the 2025 Toyota Crown boldly redefines expectations. This vehicle, which returned to the U.S. market for the 2023 model year, is arguably one of the most underrated luxury vehicles available today. Toyota’s inherent strengths in reliability and thoughtful design are amplified in the Crown, manifesting as a distinctly Lexus-like interior and a sophisticated exterior that elegantly flies under the radar of traditional luxury buyers. The hybrid powertrain, delivering a combined 236 horsepower, offers a blend of efficiency and respectable performance, achieving 60 mph in approximately seven seconds.
However, for those craving more dynamic capability, the top-tier Platinum trim introduces the Hybrid Max system, boosting output to an impressive 340 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque. This significant power increase shaves two seconds off the 0-60 mph time, offering exhilarating acceleration. Crucially, this potent configuration pairs with a traditional automatic gearbox instead of a CVT, further enhancing the driving engagement. All Crown models benefit from standard all-wheel drive, a welcome addition for all-weather confidence. Furthermore, for buyers who prefer a more conventional SUV silhouette, the Toyota Crown Signia variant offers a crossover-based alternative. For individuals seeking a luxury sedan alternative with a reputation for dependability and an upscale experience, the Toyota Crown price positions it as a smart and understated choice in the premium sedan market.
The compact executive sedan segment continues to be a battleground for refinement and driving dynamics, and the 2025 Lexus IS consistently delivers a compelling, albeit often overlooked, package. While it frequently plays second fiddle to its German rivals, the IS carves out its own niche by offering a supremely comfortable ride, an interior crafted from premium materials, and an abundance of standard features, including Lexus’ renowned safety suite. While the 2025 model offered a diverse range of powertrains, from turbocharged fours to a potent V8 in the IS 500 F Sport Performance, the 2026 Lexus IS lineup ushers in a significant refresh. This update brings a revised exterior design, an updated interior, and a larger 12.3-inch infotainment screen.
Perhaps the most significant news for the 2026 model year is the streamlining of the range to feature solely the IS 350, powered by a 311-horsepower naturally aspirated V6 engine. This is a welcome development for enthusiasts who appreciate the character and responsiveness of a six-cylinder powerplant. The IS 350 is capable of achieving 60 mph in the five-second range, offering spirited performance. Currently, Lexus continues to highlight the 2025 model on its U.S. website, indicating the enduring appeal of its current offerings. For buyers seeking a compact luxury sedan that prioritizes comfort, quality, and a serene driving experience, the Lexus IS starting MSRP makes it an attractive proposition, especially for those who value understated elegance and proven reliability over overt performance bragging rights.
Venturing into a segment where value meets performance, the 2025 Genesis G70 stands as a testament to a brand challenging the established elite. Directly competing with stalwarts like the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class, the G70 manages to undercut their starting prices significantly, often by thousands of dollars. This competitive pricing doesn’t come at the expense of luxury; instead, Genesis delivers an upscale interior replete with premium materials, and features like heated and ventilated seats are readily available. The G70’s chassis is tuned for agility, offering an engaging driving experience, further enhanced by a choice of potent turbocharged engines.
At the pinnacle of the powertrain lineup sits a 3.3-liter twin-turbo V6, unleashing a formidable 365 horsepower. This powerhouse propels the G70 from 0 to 60 mph in a blistering 4.5 seconds, a figure that rivals some of the most potent offerings in its class. Despite its compelling attributes, the G70 remains somewhat underrated, often due to concerns about brand heritage, dealer network, and perceived reliability – concerns that often fade upon closer inspection and ownership. While its fuel economy, particularly for the base four-cylinder model, might not match some competitors (achieving around 24 MPG combined compared to a BMW 330i’s 30 MPG), the overall value proposition is undeniable. For those seeking a premium sport sedan that offers exhilarating performance and luxurious appointments at a competitive Genesis G70 price, this South Korean entrant represents an astute purchase.
Moving into the SUV segment, the 2025 Lincoln Nautilus asserts its presence as a vehicle that prioritizes a supremely comfortable and luxurious experience. From the moment you enter, the cabin impresses with high-end materials, advanced active safety features, and an abundance of standard and optional amenities. The centerpiece of the interior is a striking 48-inch screen that stretches across the dashboard, creating a futuristic and immersive environment. The exterior design is refined and imposing, projecting an image of understated elegance. While the Lincoln badge may not carry the same historical cachet as some German luxury brands, the Nautilus more than compensates with its exceptional value and the sheer opulence of the experience it delivers.
The driving dynamics, while not as razor-sharp as some sportier rivals, are more than adequate for comfortable and confident cruising. The hybrid powertrain is a standout feature, renowned for its exceptional smoothness and quiet operation, creating an almost friction-free sensation. This advanced hybrid system delivers a healthy 310 horsepower, offering a noticeable boost in performance over the standard 250-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. When compared to pricier competitors like the BMW X7, which starts well over $80,000, the Nautilus emerges as a pragmatic yet luxurious choice. For buyers prioritizing luxury SUVs with advanced technology and a serene, comfortable ride, the Lincoln Nautilus starting MSRP offers a compelling gateway to premium SUV ownership.
Continuing our exploration of value-driven luxury SUVs, the 2025 Genesis GV80 continues to impress despite often being overshadowed by more established European marques. This is partly due to the inherent prestige associated with established luxury brands and the perception that a lower price point might suggest a compromise in luxury. However, the GV80 boldly defies these notions. Starting at under $60,000, it delivers a plush cabin, utilizes high-quality materials throughout, and boasts an original and distinctive design. The interior is laden with desirable features, including a 27-inch dash-mounted screen, heated seats, wireless phone charging, ambient lighting, and a powered tailgate.
The engine lineup is equally impressive, offering a choice between a 300-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder and a potent 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 producing 375 horsepower. This V6 allows the GV80, which is based on the G80 sedan platform, to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in under six seconds, placing it squarely in contention with larger luxury SUVs like the BMW X7. For those seeking a luxury SUV with spacious seating and an opulent interior that doesn’t come with the exorbitant price tag of some competitors, the Genesis GV80 price makes it an exceptional value, particularly for buyers willing to prioritize substance over badge prestige.
While not currently on sale in the U.S. market, the 2025 Volvo S90 represents an underrated luxury option that historically offered a more accessible entry point than many key rivals. Despite its absence from American showrooms for this model year, it’s worth acknowledging its merits for those who might encounter pre-owned models or consider future availability. The S90, in its previous iterations, was praised for its competence, safety, and relatively luxurious sedan experience, characterized by Volvo’s signature Scandinavian design aesthetic. While some reviews pointed to areas where it lagged behind competitors, such as ride and powertrain refinement or certain luxury features, its core strengths remained.
Standard features often included heated seats, a panoramic sunroof, and all-wheel drive, complemented by upscale interior materials. The base four-cylinder engine, while not exceptionally sporty, delivered a respectable 295 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, achieving an EPA-rated 26 MPG combined. The plug-in hybrid variant, the T8, offered a more compelling performance story, combining its turbocharged and supercharged four-cylinder with electric motors for a substantial 455 horsepower and 523 pound-feet of torque, achieving an impressive 66-MPGe combined figure and a brisk 0-60 mph time in the four-second range. For those who value safety, sophisticated design, and a comfortable ride, the S90, when available, offers a compelling alternative in the premium sedan segment.
The iconic 2025 BMW 5 Series often flies under the radar as an “underrated” luxury sedan, particularly in its base 530i configuration. While it hails from a prestigious brand, its starting price, typically under $60,000, positions it as a more accessible entry into the German luxury sedan club. The segment is fiercely competitive, and while some rivals may offer more opulent interiors at lower price points, the 5 Series delivers a refined and familiar experience. The base 530i’s 255-horsepower engine is perfectly adequate for daily driving, and its EPA-rated 31 MPG combined figure is commendable. The 0-60 mph time in the five-second range further underscores its capable performance.
The interior of the 5 Series is spacious, and the perceived quality aligns with BMW’s established standards. Refinement and ride comfort are hallmarks of this legendary model, making it an excellent choice for daily commuting. For those seeking more power, the $67,000 540i xDrive offers a 375-horsepower inline-six engine, providing a significant uplift in performance. For buyers seeking a blend of performance, comfort, and brand prestige in a luxury sedan under $60,000, the BMW 5 Series starting MSRP offers a balanced and highly competent option.
Finally, we arrive at a vehicle that embodies automotive artistry and exclusive performance: the 2025 Lexus LC. This flagship coupe and convertible from Lexus is a masterpiece of design and engineering, a rare sight in today’s automotive landscape. Since its introduction in 2018, the LC has commanded a premium, with the coupe starting slightly over $100,000 and the convertible adding an additional $8,000. The convertible, with its power-retractable soft-top, beautifully showcases the magnificent UR naturally aspirated V8 engine under the hood – a powertrain that is becoming increasingly scarce. This V8 engine, also found in the outgoing RC F and the soon-to-be-discontinued IS 500 F Sport Performance, is a true gem.
The LC 500’s engine roars to life with an intoxicating sound, promising an extraordinary driving experience. While not a new engine, its execution is simply sublime. The LC’s exterior is undeniably elegant, and the interior is as plush as one would expect for its price point, featuring Lexus’ comprehensive Safety System+ 2.5, a glass roof with sunshade, eight-way power-adjustable heated and ventilated front seats, and a premium 12-speaker sound system. While its grand touring setup prioritizes comfort over razor-sharp dynamics, making it a formidable competitor to cars like Porsche and Jaguar, its high price, lack of a manual transmission option, and more relaxed dynamics might lead some to consider it underrated. However, its exceptional merits, especially in 2025, are undeniable for those seeking a truly special automotive statement. For collectors and enthusiasts seeking the pinnacle of luxury coupes with V8 engines, the Lexus LC starting MSRP signifies an investment in automotive excellence and timeless design.
The automotive landscape of 2025 presents a rich tapestry of choices for the discerning buyer who understands that true luxury extends beyond mere brand recognition. The vehicles highlighted above – from the performance-oriented Cadillac CT4 and Genesis G70 to the family-focused Mazda CX-90 and the elegantly understated Toyota Crown – each offer a unique blend of comfort, technology, and driving pleasure at prices that represent exceptional value. Similarly, the refined Lincoln Nautilus, the opulent Genesis GV80, the dependable Lexus IS, the sophisticated BMW 5 Series, and the breathtaking Lexus LC demonstrate that premium motoring is accessible across a spectrum of needs and desires.
As you contemplate your next automotive acquisition, I encourage you to look beyond the obvious and explore these compelling alternatives. Visiting a local dealership to experience the refined interiors, the responsive powertrains, and the advanced safety features firsthand is an invaluable step. Discovering these underrated luxury vehicles is not just about finding a car; it’s about uncovering an intelligent investment in automotive excellence that aligns with your personal definition of sophistication and value.
