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The Forrester and Walton families are in for a seismic shock as Quinn Fuller makes a dramatic and unexpected return to Los Angeles. But she hasn’t come alone; Quinn has returned with a young daughter in tow, and she has dropped a “DNA Bombshell” that has left Carter Walton’s world in ruins. Quinn has officially declared that the child is Carter’s, the result of a secret encounter before she originally left town. This revelation comes at the worst possible time for Carter, who is currently navigating complex relationships and professional challenges. The existence of a “Secret Daughter” changes everything for his future and his identity. Carter, who has always wanted to be a father, is forced to reconcile his feelings for Quinn with the reality of her long-term deception. The impact on the community is massive, as the news spreads through the fashion world, raising questions about trust and loyalty. Quinn’s motivations for keeping the child a secret and for revealing the truth now are under intense scrutiny, with many suspecting she is looking for a way to claw her way back into the inner circle of power. As Carter begins the process of verifying the claim and connecting with the child, he must also deal with the anger and betrayal felt by those around him. This storyline explores the themes of parenthood, hidden pasts, and the enduring power of Quinn’s ability to create chaos wherever she goes. The Spencer and Forrester families are now linked in a new and complicated way, and the road ahead for Carter is paved with difficult choices and emotional upheaval.
Navigating the Nuances of Premium Sedans and SUVs in 2025: Beyond the Badge
For seasoned automotive professionals and discerning buyers alike, the automotive landscape of 2025 presents a fascinating confluence of established luxury marques and ambitious newcomers vying for attention. The quest for a vehicle that balances performance, refinement, technological integration, and sheer desirability is more complex than ever. While the allure of heritage brands remains potent, a closer examination reveals that true automotive excellence is often found where you least expect it. This exploration delves into a curated selection of premium sedans and SUVs, dissecting their offerings and highlighting their unique value propositions in a market increasingly defined by sophisticated engineering and evolving consumer expectations.
The Underrated Gems: Finding Value in Unexpected Places
The conventional wisdom often points toward German engineering as the benchmark for premium automobiles. However, in 2025, several marques are consistently punching above their weight, delivering compelling packages that challenge the status quo. Understanding these “underrated luxury vehicles” is key to making an informed decision, moving beyond mere badge prestige to appreciate genuine automotive merit.
The 2025 Cadillac CT4 continues to carve out a niche for itself, particularly for those who appreciate a driver-focused compact premium sedan. While the potent CT4-V and its even more exhilarating Blackwing sibling rightly command enthusiast attention, the standard CT4 offers a compelling entry point. The availability of the 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine, producing a robust 310 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque in the Premium Luxury trim, delivers a spirited 0-60 mph time of approximately 4.8 seconds. This performance is more than adequate for spirited driving, offering a tangible sense of acceleration that belies its relatively accessible starting MSRP of $34,995. Even the standard engine, with its 237 horsepower, provides a respectable blend of performance and efficiency, with EPA estimates reaching up to 26 MPG combined. While some reviews have noted interior appointments that may not reach the lofty standards set by some rivals, the CT4’s value proposition for those seeking American luxury with a sporty inclination remains strong, especially when considering the competitive segment which includes contenders like the BMW 2-Series Gran Coupe and Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class.
Shifting gears to the realm of SUVs, the 2025 Mazda CX-90 stands out as a remarkably refined and often overlooked option for families prioritizing space and practicality without sacrificing an upscale experience. Mazda has consistently demonstrated an aptitude for creating vehicles that feel more premium than their price suggests, and the CX-90 is a prime example. Its mid-sized, three-row configuration offers ample seating for up to eight occupants, making it an excellent choice for larger families or those who frequently transport passengers. The interior, adorned with leatherette-trimmed seats as standard, exudes a sophisticated ambiance, further enhanced by the available panoramic sunroof and hands-free tailgate. Under the hood, the strong inline-six engine delivers a confident 280 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque in base configurations. What truly elevates the CX-90 is its driving dynamics. Mazda’s engineering prowess shines through, imbuing this large SUV with surprisingly agile handling, precise steering, and composed body control that makes it feel smaller and more engaging than its dimensions might suggest. This “shrinks in size” phenomenon as speeds increase is a testament to its sophisticated chassis tuning. Priced starting at $38,800, the CX-90 offers a compelling blend of practicality, refinement, and driving enjoyment, making it a standout choice in the crowded three-row SUV market. It’s worth noting the close relationship to the Mazda CX-70, which offers a slightly different configuration for those who don’t require the third row.
The 2025 Toyota Crown represents a fascinating case study in how a brand renowned for reliability and mainstream appeal can successfully venture into more premium territory. The revived Crown nameplate, introduced for the 2023 model year as a distinctly unique “jacked-up sedan,” offers a compelling alternative for those seeking Lexus-like luxury without the overt badge. Its hybrid powertrain delivers a healthy 236 horsepower, achieving 0-60 mph in around seven seconds. For those craving more potency, the top-tier Platinum trim, featuring the Hybrid Max powertrain, significantly elevates performance to 340 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque, slashing the 0-60 mph sprint to an impressive five seconds. This performance upgrade is paired with a traditional automatic gearbox, a welcome feature for many driving enthusiasts, and all Crown models benefit from standard all-wheel drive. The interior is often lauded for its Lexus-inspired design and premium materials, offering a tranquil and well-appointed cabin. With a starting MSRP of $41,440, the Toyota Crown, especially its Signia crossover variant, presents a sophisticated and understated option that flies under the radar of many luxury car shoppers, offering a unique blend of comfort, technology, and efficient performance.
The Established Players: Evolving to Meet Modern Demands
While the “underrated” category highlights exceptional value, the established luxury brands continue to innovate and refine their offerings. These vehicles often represent the pinnacle of automotive engineering and occupant experience, though at a commensurately higher price point.
The 2025 Lexus IS has long been a benchmark for compact executive sedans, offering a comfortable and refined ride that often caters to a different buyer than its German counterparts. While perhaps not the sharpest in outright dynamic capability compared to some rivals, the IS excels in delivering a serene cabin environment crafted from premium materials and equipped with a generous suite of standard features and the brand’s renowned safety suite. For the 2026 model year, Lexus has introduced a significant refresh, featuring updated exterior styling, an enhanced interior with larger infotainment screens, and a welcomed shift towards the naturally aspirated V6 engine for the IS 350, producing 311 horsepower and capable of 0-60 mph in the five-second range. This focus on a smooth, powerful six-cylinder is a strong appeal for enthusiasts. While the brand continues to list the 2025 model for US customers, the direction for 2026 signifies a commitment to delivering engaging driving experiences alongside traditional Lexus luxury. With a starting MSRP of $41,830 for the 2025 model, the IS remains a compelling choice for those prioritizing comfort and build quality.
Genesis, Hyundai’s luxury division, has rapidly established itself as a formidable competitor against the German elite. The 2025 Genesis G70 epitomizes this strategy, offering a captivating blend of upscale amenities, premium materials, and engaging performance at a price point that significantly undercuts its direct rivals like the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class. Starting at $43,450, the G70 provides an agile chassis and a choice of potent turbocharged engines, culminating in a 3.3-liter twin-turbo V6 delivering 365 horsepower and a brisk 4.5-second 0-60 mph time. The interior features are equally impressive, with optional heated and ventilated seats and a general sense of refined craftsmanship. While brand heritage and dealer network may still be evolving concerns for some, the G70’s inherent strengths—its dynamic capabilities, luxurious appointments, and compelling value—make it a standout option for those seeking a premium sport sedan without the stratospheric pricing of its competitors. Some critiques have pointed to fuel economy figures for the base four-cylinder model, but the overall package offers tremendous bang for the buck in the luxury sedan segment.
Stepping into the SUV realm again, the 2025 Lincoln Nautilus represents a significant leap forward in Lincoln’s commitment to delivering a truly luxurious experience. The standout feature is undoubtedly the expansive 48-inch digital screen that dominates the dashboard, creating a futuristic and immersive cockpit. This, combined with high-end interior materials, advanced active safety features, and a remarkably comfortable ride, positions the Nautilus as a strong contender in the luxury SUV market. While its driving dynamics may not achieve the razor-sharp focus of some competitors, the Nautilus prioritizes a serene and opulent journey. The available hybrid powertrain offers a smooth and quiet operation, with the engine seeming distant and unobtrusive, contributing to a truly first-class ambiance. Starting at $53,995, the Nautilus offers a compelling alternative to more expensive rivals like the BMW X7, providing a refined and feature-rich experience. The available 310-horsepower hybrid powertrain ensures ample power, complementing the 250-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder as the sole non-hybrid option.
Genesis continues to impress with its SUV offerings, and the 2025 Genesis GV80 is a testament to their ability to blend originality with opulence. Despite its many merits, including a distinctive design and extensive list of features, the GV80 often resides in the shadow of more established European brands. This is a phenomenon that Genesis leverages to its advantage, offering a luxurious experience at a more accessible price point, starting under $60,000. The interior is a sanctuary of comfort and quality, featuring a 27-inch dashboard screen, heated seats, wireless phone charging, and ambient lighting. The powertrain options are equally impressive, with a 300-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder and a potent 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 producing 375 horsepower. The latter propels the GV80 to 60 mph in under six seconds, rivaling much more expensive SUVs. For buyers seeking genuine opulence and a distinctive design without the premium associated with legacy luxury badges, the GV80 presents an exceptional value proposition, cementing its place among the top luxury SUVs available.
Exploring Higher Tiers of Performance and Elegance
As we ascend into higher price brackets, the focus shifts towards more extreme performance, unparalleled comfort, and cutting-edge technology. These vehicles represent the apex of automotive engineering and design, catering to buyers who demand the absolute best.
The 2025 Volvo S90, though currently not on sale in the US, remains an intriguing proposition in the European market as an underrated luxury sedan offering excellent value. Its Scandinavian design ethos translates into a clean, minimalist interior with upscale materials and a focus on safety and comfort. While some reviews have noted areas for improvement in ride and powertrain refinement compared to direct competitors, the S90’s strengths lie in its inherent safety, competence, and relatively luxurious appointments. The base four-cylinder engine produces a respectable 295 horsepower, and the plug-in hybrid T8 variant is a powerhouse, combining a turbocharged and supercharged four-cylinder with electric motors to deliver a staggering 455 horsepower and achieve a blistering 0-60 mph time in the four-second range. This performance, coupled with an impressive 66-MPGe combined rating, makes the S90 a compelling, albeit currently unavailable, option for US consumers seeking sophisticated Swedish luxury.
The 2025 BMW 5 Series continues its reign as a benchmark for luxury executive sedans, offering a compelling blend of performance, refinement, and technology. While the brand carries significant prestige, the base 530i version, starting just under $60,000, can be considered an underrated value within the segment. It provides a comfortable and spacious interior with the high perceived quality expected from BMW. The powertrain in the 530i, offering 255 horsepower, is more than adequate for daily driving, achieving respectable fuel economy with an EPA-rated 31 MPG combined and a 0-60 mph time in the five-second range. For those seeking more power, the 540i xDrive with its 375-horsepower inline-six engine offers a significant performance boost. The 5 Series is renowned for its refinement and ride comfort, making it an excellent choice for those entering the German luxury sedan segment without venturing into the highest price tiers.
Finally, the 2025 Lexus LC stands as a testament to automotive artistry, a captivating flagship coupe and convertible that embodies sheer beauty and elegance. As the most expensive vehicle in Lexus’s lineup, starting north of $100,000, the LC justifies its price tag with breathtaking design and a truly special driving experience. The coupe, and its convertible sibling which adds $8,000, offers a rare treat in today’s automotive world: a naturally aspirated V8 engine. This potent “UR” V8, also found in the now-discontinued RC F and IS 500 F Sport Performance, delivers an exhilarating soundtrack and effortless power, making every drive feel like a special occasion. The LC500’s exterior is a masterpiece of design, and the interior is equally plush and feature-rich, boasting a comprehensive safety suite, premium audio, and exquisite comfort features like heated and ventilated front seats. While its dynamics are tuned more for grand touring comfort than outright track performance, the LC’s combination of V8 power, rear-wheel drive, and timeless design makes it a truly desirable and arguably underrated luxury car in a segment increasingly dominated by turbocharged performance.
Making Your Next Move
The automotive market in 2025 presents an abundance of exceptional choices, from value-laden premium sedans and SUVs to the ultimate expressions of automotive luxury and performance. Whether you’re drawn to the understated elegance of a Genesis, the refined practicality of a Mazda, or the exhilarating power of a Lexus, understanding these diverse offerings is crucial.
We invite you to explore these vehicles further, to test drive your favorites, and to engage with our team of experts. Discover firsthand how these premium automobiles can elevate your daily commute and weekend adventures. Your journey towards finding the perfect vehicle begins with informed exploration and a clear understanding of what truly matters to you.
