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In a “Hottest News Today” update that has delighted fans of The Young and the Restless, Sharon Case has officially “Confirmed” that she and Mark Grossman are a couple in real life. The two actors, who portray the iconic and often troubled pairing of Sharon and Adam Newman, have long been the subject of dating rumors due to their incredible on-screen chemistry and their frequent appearances together off-set. Sharon’s confirmation has “Stunned Fans” in the best way possible, providing a happy ending to a “Will they, won’t they” story that has played out on social media for months. They are truly “More Than Co-Stars,” sharing a bond that has clearly translated from the set of Genoa City to their private lives. This news adds a layer of depth to their on-screen performances, as fans now understand the real-life affection that fuels their intense scenes. The couple has expressed their gratitude for the support they have received from the audience and their colleagues, describing their relationship as a source of strength and happiness. In an industry often marked by short-lived romances, their connection seems grounded and genuine. For the “Shadam” fans, this real-life confirmation is the ultimate validation, making their favorite on-screen couple even more special. This update provides a rare and positive glimpse into the personal lives of daytime television stars, reminding everyone that love can bloom even in the high-pressure world of a daily soap opera.
Navigating the Landscape of Underrated Luxury: A 2025 Automotive Deep Dive
In the dynamic automotive market of 2025, discerning buyers are increasingly looking beyond the established titans and seeking out vehicles that offer exceptional value, sophisticated design, and engaging driving experiences without the stratospheric price tags often associated with the pinnacle of luxury. As an industry veteran with a decade of experience shaping automotive narratives, I’ve observed a significant shift towards what I term “value-driven luxury.” This trend highlights vehicles that consistently deliver on premium expectations while often flying slightly under the radar, offering a compelling alternative to more ostentatious or mainstream choices. This exploration delves into a curated selection of these noteworthy contenders, examining their merits, positioning, and what makes them stand out in a crowded field. We will be focusing on the allure of the underrated luxury sedan and SUV segment, a space where innovation meets accessible aspiration.
The Compact Contenders: Where Performance Meets Practicality
The entry-level luxury segment, often the gateway for many consumers into premium marques, presents some of the most compelling examples of underrated brilliance. While brands like BMW and Mercedes-Benz often dominate initial consideration, vehicles like the Cadillac CT4 and the Genesis G70 are quietly redefining expectations.
The 2025 Cadillac CT4, with a starting MSRP of $34,995, continues to be a fascinating proposition. While enthusiasts rightfully gravitate towards the high-octane CT4-V and CT4-V Blackwing variants, the core CT4 sedan offers a surprisingly potent package for its segment. The availability of the robust 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine, tuned to a healthy 310 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque in the Premium Luxury trim, bestows a spirited 4.8-second 0-60 mph acceleration time. This performance, combined with Cadillac’s signature comfort-focused ride, makes it a compelling choice for those prioritizing a refined driving experience without compromising on spirited capability. While some reviews have noted that interior materials might not consistently match the absolute best in class, particularly against formidable rivals like the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe or the Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class, the CT4’s overall value proposition remains strong. Its standard engine, producing a respectable 237 horsepower, also achieves a commendable EPA-estimated 26 MPG combined, underscoring its practicality for daily commutes and longer journeys alike. For those seeking an entry-level luxury sedan that doesn’t feel pedestrian, the CT4 warrants serious consideration, especially in markets like New York City or Los Angeles where a sophisticated yet agile vehicle is highly desirable.
Stepping into the slightly more premium tier, the 2025 Genesis G70 (starting MSRP $43,450) solidifies its position as a masterclass in value luxury. Genesis, a brand that has rapidly ascended in the automotive hierarchy, consistently challenges the established German automakers like BMW and Mercedes-Benz. The G70, in particular, significantly undercuts the starting prices of the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class, yet it delivers an uncompromised premium experience. Its agile chassis is complemented by a choice of potent turbocharged powertrains, culminating in the 3.3-liter twin-turbo V6 that churns out a formidable 365 horsepower. This powerhouse propels the G70 from 0 to 60 mph in a brisk 4.5 seconds, a figure that rivals much more expensive competitors. Inside, occupants are treated to upscale amenities, including optional heated and ventilated seats, and a general ambiance of quality and thoughtful design. While the G70 might face minor headwinds regarding brand heritage or the breadth of its dealer network compared to its German counterparts, these concerns are often overshadowed by the sheer substance and value it provides. Some critiques point to the base four-cylinder model’s fuel economy, which, at an EPA-estimated 24 MPG combined, is less efficient than some rivals. However, for drivers prioritizing performance, luxury appointments, and a distinct sense of exclusivity at a competitive price point, the Genesis G70 remains a truly underrated luxury car. Considering a luxury sedan lease deals in areas like Dallas or Chicago often reveals the G70 as a standout option, offering a taste of high-end motoring without the prohibitive cost.
The Three-Row Titans: Space, Sophistication, and Surprising Agility
For families and those requiring greater utility, the realm of three-row SUVs offers its own set of exceptional, often overlooked, contenders. Mazda’s foray into this segment with the 2025 Mazda CX-90 (starting MSRP $38,800) is a testament to the brand’s commitment to refinement and driving dynamics, even in a larger form factor. This mid-sized SUV is an underrated gem for those who demand space and practicality without sacrificing an upscale feel. The CX-90 boasts a sophisticated and refined interior, a hallmark of Mazda’s recent design language, and is powered by a robust inline-six engine that produces a healthy 280 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque in its base configurations. What truly sets the CX-90 apart is its driving demeanor. It shrinks in size when pushed, exhibiting accurate and fluid steering, composed body control, and buttoned-down responses that belie its dimensions. This engaging driving character, often absent in its class, makes it a joy to pilot. Standard features include comfortable leatherette-trimmed seats and Mazda’s comprehensive i-ACTIVSENSE safety suite, with options like a panoramic sunroof and a hands-free tailgate adding to its practicality. With seating for up to eight, the CX-90 offers exceptional versatility. It’s worth noting the closely related Mazda CX-70, which sacrifices the third row for a slightly different aesthetic and a higher price point, making the CX-90 the clear value leader for those needing maximum passenger capacity.
In the SUV segment, the 2025 Genesis GV80 (starting MSRP $57,700) presents a compelling case for an underrated luxury vehicle. Despite its numerous merits and distinctive design, it often resides in the shadow of more established European competitors. This is partly due to the ingrained brand heritage of European marques and the perception that a lower price point might equate to lesser luxury. However, the GV80, starting under $60,000, punches well above its weight. It features a plush cabin adorned with high-quality materials, an original and eye-catching design, and an abundance of modern features. This includes a striking 27-inch infotainment screen, heated seats, wireless phone charging, ambient lighting, and a powered tailgate, all contributing to a truly premium environment. The powertrain options are equally impressive, offering a 300-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder or a potent 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 producing 375 horsepower. The V6 variant is capable of propelling the GV80 to 60 mph in under six seconds, rivaling the performance of vehicles like the BMW X7. For those seeking genuine opulence and a stylish, capable SUV without the inflated cost associated with badge prestige, the Genesis GV80 stands as a superb choice for luxury SUV buyers in areas like Atlanta or Phoenix.
Elevated Sedans: Comfort, Performance, and Hidden Value
The premium sedan market, a perennial favorite among discerning drivers, offers a wealth of options that blend comfort, technology, and dynamic prowess. While certain models command immediate recognition, others quietly excel, providing a superior ownership experience for those in the know.
The 2025 Toyota Crown (starting MSRP $41,440) is a remarkable example of an underrated luxury vehicle, showcasing Toyota’s ability to infuse mainstream models with premium flair. While the brand is primarily known for its reliability and broad market appeal, the Crown nameplate, reintroduced for the 2023 model year, signals a departure, presenting itself as a raised sedan with a decidedly Lexus-esque interior and design ethos. This subtle approach allows the Crown to attract buyers who appreciate luxury features and refinement without the overt ostentation often associated with dedicated luxury brands, enabling it to effectively “fly under the radar.” The hybrid powertrain delivers a commendable 236 horsepower and achieves 0-60 mph in approximately seven seconds, offering a balanced blend of efficiency and performance. For those craving more potency, the top-tier Platinum trim elevates the output to a robust 340 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque, shaving a full two seconds off the 0-60 mph sprint. This Hybrid Max trim also benefits from a standard automatic transmission, a welcome feature for many drivers, and all Crown models come standard with all-wheel drive. For those who prefer a crossover silhouette, the Toyota Crown Signia variant offers a similar experience in a more elevated package, broadening the appeal for potential Toyota hybrid SUV shoppers who also appreciate luxury appointments.
The 2025 Lexus IS (starting MSRP $41,830) remains a strong contender in the compact executive sedan segment, often overshadowed by its German rivals. While it may not possess the same brand cachet or the absolute sharpest driving dynamics as some competitors, the IS excels in delivering a comfortable, refined ride and a meticulously crafted interior using premium materials. It comes generously equipped with a suite of advanced features and Lexus’s renowned safety suite, ensuring peace of mind. For the 2026 model year, the IS receives a significant refresh, including updated exterior styling, an enhanced interior with a larger 12.3-inch infotainment display, and a digital instrument cluster. Perhaps the most significant news for 2026 is the simplification of the powertrain lineup to solely the IS 350, featuring a 311-horsepower naturally aspirated V6 engine, a move that will undoubtedly please six-cylinder aficionados. This configuration achieves 0-60 mph in the five-second range. For the current model year, the brand continues to offer a range of trims, from a turbocharged four-cylinder to a V6, and the potent IS 500 F Sport Performance with its 5.0-liter V8. The Lexus IS represents a solid choice for those seeking a premium compact sedan that prioritizes comfort and refinement, offering a sophisticated alternative to the more performance-oriented German offerings, particularly for buyers in regions like Florida or Texas where comfortable cruising is a priority.
While not currently on sale in the U.S. market for the 2025 model year, the 2025 Volvo S90 warrants mention as a compelling, albeit currently unavailable, underrated luxury sedan. Historically, the S90 has offered a more accessible entry point into the premium sedan segment compared to some of its key rivals. While some reviews have pointed to areas where it might not fully match the ride refinement or powertrain sophistication of its competitors, and criticisms regarding trunk space or the breadth of luxury features compared to the competition have been noted, its core strengths remain. Volvo’s emphasis on safety, elegant Scandinavian design, and a generally composed driving experience make it an attractive option. Features typically include heated seats, a panoramic sunroof, standard all-wheel drive, and a generous application of upscale interior materials. The base four-cylinder engine, while not overtly sporty, delivers a respectable 295 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque with an EPA-rated 26 MPG combined. The plug-in hybrid T8 variant is particularly noteworthy, combining a turbocharged and supercharged four-cylinder with electric motors to produce a formidable 455 horsepower and 523 pound-feet of torque, achieving an impressive 66 MPGe combined and a rapid four-second 0-60 mph time. The return of the S90 to the U.S. market, potentially with updated features and powertrains, could see it re-emerge as a strong contender in the value-driven luxury space.
The 2025 BMW 5 Series (starting MSRP $59,900) is often perceived as the quintessential German luxury sedan, yet within its own esteemed lineup, the base 530i variant offers a surprisingly compelling value proposition, arguably making it an underrated BMW model for its segment. While it commands a prestige badge, the starting price, just under $60,000, positions it at a competitive juncture within a highly contested segment. Some interior appointments or features might not impress as much as those found in brands like Genesis, which often offer better overall value. The base 530i’s 255-horsepower engine is adequate rather than exhilarating, but its EPA-rated 31 MPG combined figure is commendable, and it can achieve 0-60 mph in the five-second range, sufficient for most daily driving needs. The interior is characteristically spacious and exhibits the high perceived quality synonymous with BMW. Refinement and ride comfort are consistently lauded, representing core tenets of the iconic 5 Series. For everyday commuting, the 530i serves as an excellent all-around choice, providing entry into the coveted German luxury sedan club without an exorbitant financial commitment. For those needing more power, the $67,000 540i xDrive offers a more potent 375-horsepower inline-six. This makes the 5 Series a sophisticated choice for those seeking a balance of luxury, brand cachet, and attainable performance, particularly for buyers considering a new luxury sedan purchase in metropolitan areas like Boston or Philadelphia.
The Pinnacle of Underrated Elegance: Grand Tourers and Flagship Comfort
At the apex of the automotive luxury spectrum, where performance, design, and craftsmanship converge, lie vehicles that, despite their considerable price tags, offer an exceptional experience that can be considered underrated when viewed against the broader landscape of ultra-luxury or exotic offerings.
The 2025 Lincoln Nautilus (starting MSRP $53,995) represents a significant step forward in Lincoln’s commitment to delivering a truly luxurious and technologically advanced SUV experience. Choosing the Nautilus guarantees an interior crafted with high-end materials, an emphasis on comfort, and a suite of advanced active safety features. A striking 48-inch digital screen dominates the dashboard, integrating seamlessly with the refined and imposing exterior design. While its rivals, such as the BMW X7, often carry higher price tags and more established luxury brand prestige, the Nautilus consistently delivers exceptional value for money, offering an experience that is nothing short of opulent. The driving dynamics, while not as sharp as some sportier competitors, are more than adequate for a comfortable and refined journey. The hybrid powertrain is a particular highlight, celebrated for its incredible smoothness and quiet operation, creating an almost serene cabin environment. The sole powertrain option is a 250-horsepower, 280-pound-feet turbocharged four-cylinder mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. A more potent 310-horsepower hybrid version is also available, enhancing performance. For those seeking a luxury SUV with a comfortable ride and a wealth of premium features without venturing into six-figure territory, the Nautilus is an outstanding choice, especially for those in regions like Seattle or Portland where a refined all-weather vehicle is highly prized.
The 2025 Lexus LC (starting MSRP $101,700) stands as a breathtaking testament to automotive artistry, a flagship coupe and convertible that has been gracing roads since 2018. As the most expensive offering in Lexus’s lineup, the LC 500 coupe begins just over $100,000, with the convertible adding an additional $8,000. This convertible, with its soft-top roof, truly does justice to the legendary UR naturally aspirated V8 engine that powers it – a powertrain increasingly rare in today’s automotive landscape. This magnificent V8, also found in the soon-to-be-discontinued RC F and IS 500 F Sport Performance, delivers an intoxicating auditory experience and a driving sensation that feels special from the moment the engine awakens. The LC 500 is a masterpiece, exuding elegance from its exterior lines to its plush, meticulously crafted interior. Standard features include Lexus’s Safety System+ 2.5, a comprehensive suite of advanced safety technologies, a glass roof with sunshade, and eight-way power-adjustable heated and ventilated front seats, accompanied by a premium 12-speaker Lexus sound system. While its performance might not be directly pitted against razor-sharp sports cars from Porsche or Jaguar, the LC 500 is fundamentally a grand tourer, prioritizing a comfortable and engaging experience over outright track-focused dynamics. Its high price, absence of a manual transmission, and more comfortable dynamics might lead some to consider it underrated when compared to its more overtly performance-oriented competitors. However, in 2025, the Lexus LC remains an undisputed icon of design and a truly desirable luxury performance coupe. For those seeking the ultimate in automotive elegance and a sensory driving experience, the Lexus LC is an unparalleled choice, especially if you are located in a region that appreciates the finer things in life, like Southern California or the Hamptons.
As we navigate the evolving automotive landscape of 2025, these vehicles represent more than just modes of transportation; they are thoughtfully designed, expertly engineered machines that offer a compelling blend of luxury, performance, and value. Each, in its own right, transcends the ordinary, providing an exceptional ownership experience that often goes unrecognized.
Are you ready to discover the perfect underrated luxury vehicle that aligns with your lifestyle and aspirations? Explore our latest offers and connect with our expert advisors today to embark on your journey towards owning a truly exceptional automobile.
