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The Monday, January 12, 2026, update for The Bold and the Beautiful centers on a “Tricky Mission” undertaken by Hope Logan. Driven by a desire to protect her family’s interests and uncover a hidden truth, Hope has embarked on a journey of deception that puts her in a direct path of danger. Her mission involves infiltrating a rival organization or a private event to obtain information that could save Forrester Creations from a hostile takeover. The “Tricky” nature of her task requires her to lie to those she loves and to operate in the shadows, a role that goes against her usually honest nature. As she navigates this high-stakes game, she finds herself facing unexpected challenges and a series of “Newest Updates” that complicate her progress. The tension is palpable as Hope realizes that one wrong move could result in her exposure and a major scandal for her family. Meanwhile, other characters are dealing with the fallout of her absence, unaware of the risks she is taking. This storyline highlights Hope’s growth and her willingness to do whatever it takes to secure her legacy. The episode sets a fast-paced and suspenseful tone for the week, as Hope’s mission becomes a focal point of the narrative. The consequences of her deception will be explored in the coming days, as she deals with the moral weight of her actions and the potential for a “Deadly Mistake.” Hope’s transformation into a more strategic and calculating player is a significant shift for her character, adding a new layer of complexity to the show’s ongoing power struggles.
Beyond the Badge: Unveiling America’s Underrated Luxury Automotive Gems for 2025
As a seasoned automotive industry professional with a decade of experience navigating the ever-evolving landscape of new car releases, I’ve witnessed firsthand how certain vehicles, despite their inherent merit, often struggle to capture the widespread acclaim they truly deserve. The American automotive market, particularly in the premium and luxury segments, is a fascinating ecosystem. While established titans and headline-grabbing newcomers often dominate the conversation, a wealth of compelling vehicles offer exceptional value, refined driving experiences, and cutting-edge technology without the stratospheric price tags or the overhyped fanfare. For 2025, I’m excited to highlight a curated selection of these underrated luxury cars and SUVs that present compelling alternatives to the usual suspects, catering to discerning buyers who prioritize substance, sophistication, and smart investment.
The quest for an underrated luxury car often begins with a recalibration of expectations. We’re not necessarily talking about the absolute pinnacle of automotive engineering, but rather vehicles that expertly blend premium appointments, engaging performance, and advanced features into a package that offers more than the sum of its parts, especially when compared to their more heavily marketed brethren. This year, several manufacturers are quietly delivering exceptional automobiles that deserve a closer look, especially for those seeking affordable luxury sedans or value luxury SUVs.
Let’s begin our exploration with a segment that continues to evolve: the compact premium sedan. While the enthusiast-focused Cadillac CT4-V and CT4-V Blackwing often steal the spotlight, the standard 2025 Cadillac CT4 presents a surprisingly compelling proposition for those seeking an entry into the premium sedan world. Starting at an accessible MSRP of $34,995, this model offers a refined driving experience that belies its entry-level status. The heart of the CT4, particularly in the Premium Luxury trim, beats with a potent 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine. While it might produce a slightly dialed-back 310 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque compared to its V-series sibling, this powerplant is more than capable of delivering an exhilarating 0-60 mph sprint in a brisk 4.8 seconds. For those prioritizing efficiency without sacrificing all semblance of spirited driving, the base engine, producing a respectable 237 horsepower, achieves an impressive EPA-estimated 26 MPG combined. While some early reviews have pointed to interior materials that might not quite match the opulence of certain rivals like the BMW 2-Series Gran Coupe or Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class, the Cadillac CT4 price offers a gateway to American luxury that is often overlooked.
Venturing into the realm of family-focused sophistication, Mazda continues to carve out a unique niche with its latest offerings. The 2025 Mazda CX-90, a mid-sized, three-row SUV, stands as a testament to Mazda’s commitment to refined design and engaging driving dynamics. Starting at an MSRP of $38,800, the CX-90 is an often-underrated choice for families prioritizing both space and an elevated ownership experience. Its upscale interior, a hallmark of modern Mazda design, is complemented by a robust inline-six engine that, in base configurations, delivers a healthy 280 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque. What truly sets the CX-90 apart, however, is its surprisingly agile handling. When pushed, the vehicle seems to shrink, thanks to precise steering, composed body control, and a chassis that communicates confidence. Standard features include a leatherette-trimmed interior and the comprehensive i-ACTIVSENSE safety suite, with options like a panoramic sunroof and hands-free tailgate enhancing its practicality. While the Mazda CX-70 exists as a closely related sibling, the CX-90’s retention of its third row makes it a more versatile and arguably more compelling family luxury SUV for larger households.
Toyota, a brand synonymous with reliability and practicality, has been subtly elevating its luxury offerings, and the 2025 Toyota Crown exemplifies this evolution. This model, which returned to the US market in 2023, presents itself as a remarkably underrated luxury vehicle. Its elevated sedan silhouette and the Toyota badge allow it to fly somewhat under the radar of traditional luxury buyers, but those in the know appreciate its Lexus-like interior appointments and sophisticated design. The hybrid powertrain in the standard Crown generates 236 horsepower, enabling a 0-60 mph time of around seven seconds. For those seeking more potent performance, the top-tier Platinum trim boasts the Hybrid Max system, boosting output to an impressive 340 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque, shaving two seconds off the 0-60 mph sprint. This higher trim also features a standard automatic transmission, a departure from the CVT found in other models, and all Crowns come standard with all-wheel drive. Furthermore, for buyers who prefer a crossover form factor, the Toyota Crown Signia variant offers the same luxurious ethos in an SUV body style, providing an additional layer of appeal for those seeking an all-wheel-drive luxury car.
In the compact executive sedan segment, the 2025 Lexus IS consistently offers a blend of comfort and refinement that often gets overshadowed by its German counterparts. While its brand prestige might not carry the same weight as some competitors, and its driving dynamics, historically, have been tuned for comfort rather than outright sportiness, the IS remains an exceptionally well-rounded vehicle. For 2026, the IS has undergone a significant refresh, introducing a revised exterior, an updated interior featuring a larger 12.3-inch infotainment screen and a digital instrument cluster, and a streamlined powertrain lineup. The biggest news for the upcoming model year is the consolidation of the range around the IS 350, powered by a spirited 311-horsepower naturally-aspirated V6, capable of reaching 60 mph in the five-second range. This focus on the six-cylinder engine is a welcome development for enthusiasts. For the 2025 model year, buyers still had a choice of powertrains, including the potent V8-powered IS 500 F Sport Performance, a model that is now slated for discontinuation. Despite the upcoming changes, the Lexus IS value proposition remains strong, offering a serene and feature-rich cabin with premium materials and the brand’s renowned safety suite.
Genesis, Hyundai’s luxury arm, continues to solidify its position as a formidable contender in the premium automotive space, and the 2025 Genesis G70 stands as a prime example of their value-driven approach to luxury. This compact sports sedan directly challenges established players like the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class, often at a significantly lower starting MSRP. The G70 masterfully blends upscale amenities, premium materials, and an agile chassis to create an engaging driving experience. Available with punchy turbocharged engines, including a top-tier 3.3-liter twin-turbo V6 producing a robust 365 horsepower, the G70 can achieve 0-60 mph in an impressive 4.5 seconds. While concerns about brand heritage or dealer networks might linger for some, the intrinsic quality and performance of the G70 are undeniable. However, it’s worth noting that fuel economy on the base four-cylinder model can be a point of consideration, with an EPA-estimated 24 MPG combined, falling short of some competitors. Nevertheless, for those seeking a performance luxury sedan that offers exceptional bang for your buck, the Genesis G70 remains a standout choice, often appearing on lists of best luxury sedans under $50,000.
Shifting our focus to the SUV market, the 2025 Lincoln Nautilus presents a compelling case for American luxury with its emphasis on comfort, refinement, and cutting-edge technology. Starting at $53,995, the Nautilus guarantees a lavish interior experience, replete with high-end materials, advanced safety features, and a remarkably comfortable ride. The dashboard is dominated by an expansive 48-inch screen, adding a futuristic touch to the cabin, while the exterior boasts a refined and imposing presence. While the Lincoln badge may not carry the same historical cachet as some German rivals, the Nautilus delivers exceptional value and an unequivocally luxurious experience, even if its driving dynamics are not as sharp as some sportier competitors. The available hybrid powertrain is particularly noteworthy for its smoothness and quiet operation. Under the hood, buyers can opt for a 250-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic and all-wheel drive, or a more potent hybrid version that churns out 310 horsepower. Compared to more expensive rivals like the BMW X7, which starts at over $80,000, the Nautilus offers a more accessible entry into premium SUV territory, making it a prime example of affordable luxury SUVs with significant appeal.
Genesis makes another appearance on our list with the 2025 Genesis GV80, a luxury SUV that continues to impress despite often being overshadowed by more established European marques. Despite its numerous merits and distinctive design, the GV80’s appeal is sometimes dampened by the perceived prestige associated with European brands and the notion that a lower price point might equate to less luxury. However, starting at under $60,000, the GV80 offers a demonstrably plush cabin crafted with high-quality materials, an original and elegant design, and an abundance of desirable features. These include a striking 27-inch screen, heated seats, wireless phone charging, ambient lighting, and a powered tailgate. The powertrain options are equally impressive, featuring a 300-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder or a potent 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 that generates 375 horsepower. This V6 allows the GV80 to achieve 0-60 mph in under six seconds, placing it squarely in competition with rivals like the BMW X7. For those seeking genuine opulence and willing to prioritize an exceptional price-to-value ratio over badge prestige, the Genesis GV80 offers an outstanding sports utility vehicle experience.
While not currently on sale in the US market for the 2025 model year, it’s worth acknowledging the 2025 Volvo S90 as an example of an underrated luxury option that previously offered competitive pricing against key rivals. This model, known for its competent, safe, and relatively luxurious sedan profile, embodies classic Scandinavian design. Criticisms in some reviews have pointed to areas like ride refinement, powertrain performance, and trunk space compared to its competition, and brand positioning has also played a role in its market perception. However, the S90 consistently offers upscale materials, standard all-wheel drive, and a comfortable interior with features like heated seats and a panoramic sunroof. The base four-cylinder engine provided a respectable 295 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, with an EPA-rated 26 MPG combined. The plug-in hybrid T8 variant was particularly noteworthy, combining a turbocharged and supercharged four-cylinder with electric motors for a formidable 455 horsepower and 523 pound-feet of torque, achieving an impressive 66 MPGe combined and a 0-60 mph time in the four-second range, making it a surprisingly potent performance hybrid luxury sedan.
The benchmark for premium sedans, the 2025 BMW 5 Series, despite its prestige, often flies under the radar in its base configurations, particularly the 530i. Starting at a competitive price point under $60,000, it offers an entry into the coveted German luxury sedan segment. However, the highly competitive nature of this segment means that some interior appointments might not meet the expectations set by its price tag, especially when viewed alongside the exceptional value offered by brands like Genesis. The base 530i’s 255-horsepower engine is adequate for daily driving, delivering an EPA-rated 31 MPG combined and achieving 0-60 mph in the five-second range. The interior is characteristically spacious and refined, upholding BMW’s stringent standards for perceived quality and ride comfort. For those needing more power, the 540i xDrive with its 375-horsepower inline-six engine provides a more spirited option for an additional cost. The BMW 5 Series value lies in its ability to deliver a refined and technologically advanced luxury sedan experience without immediately jumping into the highest price brackets.
Finally, we arrive at the pinnacle of understated automotive artistry: the 2025 Lexus LC. This flagship coupe and convertible, a true masterpiece of design and engineering, represents the brand’s most expensive offering, with the coupe starting just over $100,000 and the convertible adding an additional $8,000. What makes the LC truly special in 2025 is its adherence to traditional automotive passion, most notably through its naturally aspirated V8 engine. This powerplant, a rarity in today’s market and shared with other now-discontinued F performance models, delivers an intoxicating auditory and visceral experience. The LC500 is more than just an engine; it’s a symphony of design, with an elegant exterior and a plush, feature-rich interior that includes Lexus’s Safety System+ 2.5, a glass roof, and premium seating. While its dynamics are tuned for grand touring rather than razor-sharp track performance, its rear-wheel-drive platform and potent V8 make it a formidable competitor against rivals from Porsche and Jaguar. The Lexus LC price reflects its exclusivity and exquisite craftsmanship, but its combination of style, comfort, and a glorious V8 engine makes it an undeniably desirable, if often underrated, luxury GT for 2025.
In conclusion, the automotive market in 2025 offers a rich tapestry of compelling luxury vehicles that extend far beyond the usual suspects. Whether you’re drawn to the refined comfort of an American sedan, the dynamic prowess of a Japanese-engineered SUV, or the understated elegance of a premium European offering, there are numerous opportunities to find exceptional value and a truly elevated driving experience without breaking the bank. I encourage you to look beyond the badges and the hype, and explore these underrated gems. Your next truly satisfying automotive purchase might just be waiting for you at a surprising price point.
Ready to discover the perfect underrated luxury vehicle that fits your lifestyle and budget? Explore our extensive inventory or connect with one of our automotive specialists today to schedule a test drive and experience these exceptional automobiles firsthand.
