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The landscape of romance in Genoa City is set for a major shift as The Young and the Restless prepares to “Welcome a New Man for Sharon” in 2026. After years of the “Will they, won’t they” drama with Nick Newman, the writers have decided to take Sharon’s character in a completely new and unexpected direction. This “New Man” is described as a mysterious individual who arrives in town with a past that is inextricably linked to one of the city’s major families. His arrival is set to create immediate sparks with Sharon, providing her with the stability and excitement she has been craving. But the big question on everyone’s mind is: “What About Nick?” For years, Nick and Sharon have been the show’s most enduring pairing, and this new development suggests that their romantic future may be over for good. Nick’s reaction to Sharon’s new relationship is expected to be a mix of jealousy, hurt, and a realization that he may have finally lost her. This move is a bold step for the show, exploring the themes of moving on and the possibility of finding love again after a lifetime of complicated history. Fans are divided on the news, with some excited for Sharon to have a fresh start and others heartbroken that the “Shick” era may be coming to an end. As the new man makes his debut, the community will be watching closely to see how this changes the social dynamic of the city and what it means for the next generation of Newmans and Abbotts.
Reimagining the Premium Automotive Landscape: Underrated Luxury Cars of 2025 and Beyond
As an industry veteran with a decade immersed in the intricate world of automotive sales and discerning buyer preferences, I’ve witnessed firsthand the seismic shifts in how consumers perceive and value luxury vehicles. The year 2025 brings a fascinating dynamic to the premium car market. While established titans continue to command attention, a cohort of compelling, often overlooked contenders are carving out significant market share by offering an exceptional blend of sophisticated design, advanced technology, engaging performance, and—crucially—remarkable value. This evolving landscape necessitates a keen eye for the truly compelling options beyond the marquee names, especially for those seeking a luxury car value.
The concept of “underrated” in the automotive sphere is multifaceted. It can signify a vehicle that punches above its weight in terms of features and performance for its price point, a model that’s overshadowed by more aggressively marketed rivals, or even a marque that, despite its merits, hasn’t achieved the broad brand recognition of its European counterparts. This exploration delves into a curated selection of premium vehicles that, in my expert opinion, represent the pinnacle of overlooked excellence in 2025, offering a compelling alternative for the discerning driver in the US luxury car market.
Our journey begins with a segment that has historically been the bedrock of premium personal transport: the compact executive sedan.
Cadillac CT4: The Understated Performance Contender
The Cadillac CT4 has always occupied an interesting niche. While enthusiasts understandably gravitate towards the potent CT4-V and the track-honed CT4-V Blackwing variants, the standard CT4 models offer a compelling proposition for everyday luxury and spirited driving. The engine lineup provides a significant step up from the mainstream. The optional 2.7-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, tuned to 310 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque in Premium Luxury trims, delivers acceleration that can rival more established competitors, achieving a brisk 0-60 mph time of around 4.8 seconds. This performance is more than adequate for confident merging and exhilarating highway cruising.
For those prioritizing fuel efficiency, the standard 237-horsepower engine offers a commendable EPA-estimated 26 MPG combined, a figure that strikes a sensible balance for daily commuting. While some reviews have pointed to interior refinement that might not quite match the absolute best in class—rivals like the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe, Acura Integra, or Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class often receive praise for their cabin materials—the CT4’s interior is far from lacking. It provides a comfortable and tech-forward environment, featuring the latest Cadillac user experience system. The appeal of the CT4 lies in its sophisticated chassis tuning and rear-wheel-drive bias (with all-wheel drive available), offering a driving engagement that many of its front-wheel-drive rivals struggle to replicate. When considering luxury compact sedans, the CT4 offers a distinct flavor of American premium, emphasizing performance and a sharp aesthetic that stands apart.
Mazda CX-90: The Refined Three-Row All-Rounder
Shifting gears to the family-oriented SUV segment, the Mazda CX-90 emerges as a standout in the mid-size, three-row SUV category. Mazda has masterfully translated its renowned design philosophy and driver-centric ethos into a larger, more practical package, creating an offering that consistently impresses. The CX-90’s appeal is immediately apparent in its interior: a meticulously crafted cabin that exudes upscale ambiance, utilizing premium materials and thoughtful design touches that genuinely rival vehicles with significantly higher price tags. This focus on an upscale SUV interior is a key differentiator for Mazda.
Underpinning this refinement is Mazda’s commitment to engaging powertrains. The standard inline-six engine, producing a healthy 280 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque, provides ample power for effortless acceleration and confident towing. What truly sets the CX-90 apart, however, is its dynamic prowess. Mazda has engineered this large SUV to feel surprisingly nimble and connected to the road, with precise steering and composed body control that belies its size. It shrinks around the driver as speeds increase, offering a driving experience that is both reassuring and enjoyable, a rare feat for a family hauler.
With standard leatherette seating, the comprehensive i-ACTIVSENSE safety suite, and available features like a panoramic sunroof and a hands-free power liftgate, the CX-90 is exceptionally well-equipped. Seating up to eight occupants, it seamlessly blends practicality with premium comfort. It’s worth noting the close kinship with the Mazda CX-70, though the CX-90’s third row provides a distinct advantage for families prioritizing passenger capacity. For those seeking a three-row luxury SUV that doesn’t compromise on driving pleasure or interior sophistication, the CX-90 is an exceptional, and often underestimated, choice.
Toyota Crown: The Unexpected Luxury Hybrid Sedan
The automotive world thrives on surprises, and the Toyota Crown is perhaps one of the most delightful plot twists in recent memory. Resurrected for the 2023 model year and continuing into 2025, the Crown reinvents itself as a unique, elevated sedan that artfully blends Toyota’s renowned reliability with a surprisingly luxurious and premium persona. It’s a vehicle that effortlessly dances on the edge of mainstream and luxury, offering a Lexus-like interior experience under the more accessible Toyota badge. This strategy allows it to fly under the radar of many traditional luxury buyers, presenting a compelling hybrid luxury sedan value.
The Crown’s hybrid powertrain delivers a robust 236 horsepower, enabling a respectable 0-60 mph time of approximately seven seconds. However, for those craving more dynamic performance, the top-tier Platinum trim, featuring the Hybrid Max powertrain, elevates the output to a substantial 340 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque. This variant slashes the 0-60 mph sprint to under five seconds, accompanied by a more engaging automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive across all trims, enhancing its all-weather capability and sophisticated road manners. The availability of the Crown Signia variant, adopting a crossover SUV silhouette, further broadens its appeal for those who prefer a higher driving position. The Crown represents a smart acquisition for those seeking a distinctive, fuel-efficient, and surprisingly potent luxury vehicle that defies conventional segment boundaries.
Lexus IS: The Driver-Focused Compact Executive
The Lexus IS has long been a commendable contender in the compact executive sedan segment, yet it often finds itself in the shadow of its German rivals. This positioning, while perhaps a disservice to its capabilities, creates an opportunity for astute buyers seeking an alternative that prioritizes comfort, refinement, and an understated elegance. For 2025, the IS lineup continues to offer a compelling mix of powertrains, from efficient turbocharged four-cylinders to a potent V6. Enthusiasts will particularly note the continuation of the IS 500 F Sport Performance, featuring the evocative 5.0-liter naturally aspirated V8, a true rarity in today’s downsizing automotive climate.
The interior of the IS is a testament to Lexus’s commitment to quality, featuring premium materials and an ergonomic design that facilitates long-distance comfort. The brand’s comprehensive safety suite is standard, ensuring peace of mind for all occupants. While direct competitors might offer sharper, more track-oriented dynamics, the IS excels in delivering a sophisticated and serene driving experience. It’s a car that cossets its occupants while still providing engaging performance when called upon. The upcoming 2026 refresh promises an updated exterior design, an enhanced interior with larger screens, and a continued focus on the desirable naturally aspirated V6 in the IS 350, further solidifying its appeal for those who appreciate a balanced blend of luxury and driving engagement. For those looking for performance luxury sedans that offer a unique character, the Lexus IS remains a strong, often overlooked, option.
Genesis G70: The Value-Driven Luxury Sport Sedan
Genesis has rapidly established itself as a formidable force in the luxury automotive arena, and the Genesis G70 is a prime example of its ability to challenge established players with compelling value and undeniable quality. Positioned against formidable German benchmarks like the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class, the G70 consistently undercuts their starting prices while delivering an equally, if not more, impressive package of upscale amenities, premium materials, and dynamic driving characteristics. This makes it a prime candidate for luxury sedan deals that offer significant bang for your buck.
The G70’s chassis is tuned for agile handling, providing a rewarding experience for drivers who appreciate a connected feel to the road. The powertrain options are equally impressive, with the range-topping 3.3-liter twin-turbo V6 delivering a potent 365 horsepower, capable of propelling the sedan from 0 to 60 mph in a blistering 4.5 seconds. Inside, buyers will find available heated and ventilated seats, a testament to the G70’s commitment to occupant comfort and luxury. While the brand may lack the decades of heritage of its rivals, Genesis’s rapid ascent and commitment to delivering a superior ownership experience are undeniable. Some critiques have pointed to fuel economy figures on the base four-cylinder model, which, while adequate, may not match the efficiency of some competitors. However, the overall value proposition, encompassing a premium interior, potent performance, and distinctive styling, makes the G70 an exceptionally compelling choice for those seeking a luxury sport sedan that offers outstanding bang for your buck.
Lincoln Nautilus: The Serene and Sophisticated SUV
In a segment often dominated by aggressive styling and performance-oriented driving dynamics, the Lincoln Nautilus carves out its own distinct identity, prioritizing serene comfort, sophisticated interior design, and an abundance of technology. From the moment you step inside, the Nautilus envelops you in a world of luxury. The standout feature is undoubtedly the available 48-inch panoramic display that stretches across the dashboard, providing a futuristic and highly functional interface. This commitment to creating a luxurious SUV interior is matched by the use of high-end materials and meticulous attention to detail throughout the cabin.
The exterior design is equally refined, presenting an imposing yet elegant presence on the road. While the Nautilus may not aim for the razor-sharp driving dynamics of some rivals, its focus on a comfortable and quiet ride is unwavering. The hybrid powertrain offers a particularly smooth and hushed experience, making the Nautilus an exceptionally relaxing vehicle for both short commutes and long journeys. The standard turbocharged four-cylinder engine provides adequate power, and the available hybrid system boosts performance to 310 horsepower, offering a more spirited driving experience without compromising the overall sense of tranquility. For those seeking a comfortable luxury SUV that prioritizes refinement and advanced technology, the Lincoln Nautilus delivers an experience that rivals much more expensive competitors, offering a compelling alternative in the premium SUV space.
Genesis GV80: The Opulent and Original SUV
Continuing our exploration of Genesis’s impactful offerings, the Genesis GV80 stands as a testament to the brand’s ambition to challenge the established luxury SUV hierarchy. Despite its numerous merits and distinctive design, the GV80 often exists in the periphery, overshadowed by the sheer brand legacy of European marques. However, for buyers willing to look beyond the badge, the GV80 presents an extraordinary opportunity to acquire a vehicle that delivers unparalleled opulence and advanced features at a highly competitive price point. For those seeking luxury SUV value, the GV80 is a compelling proposition.
The interior of the GV80 is a masterclass in modern luxury. Plush cabins, high-quality materials, and an original design aesthetic are complemented by an impressive array of standard features. These include a sizable infotainment screen, heated seats, wireless phone charging, ambient lighting, and a powered tailgate, creating an environment that feels both technologically advanced and exceptionally comfortable. The engine options are equally robust, featuring a 300-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder and a potent 3.3-liter twin-turbo V6 producing 375 horsepower. The latter is capable of propelling the GV80 from 0 to 60 mph in under six seconds, making it a genuinely swift and capable machine. The Genesis GV80 is a compelling choice for those who demand a high level of opulence and unique styling in their SUV, and who are astute enough to recognize exceptional value when presented with it. It’s a true contender for those prioritizing premium SUV features without the premium brand tax.
Volvo S90: The Scandinavian Sanctuary (Availability Varies)
While its US market availability for the 2025 model year is currently uncertain, the Volvo S90 represents an often-overlooked gem in the premium sedan segment, particularly for those who appreciate Scandinavian design, robust safety, and understated luxury. Historically, the S90 has offered a competitive price point relative to its key rivals, further enhancing its value proposition. Its strengths lie in its serene ride quality and a cabin that embodies Volvo’s signature minimalist yet sophisticated aesthetic, utilizing high-quality materials and a focus on occupant well-being.
The S90 is typically well-equipped with features like heated seats, a panoramic sunroof, and standard all-wheel drive. The base four-cylinder engine offers a respectable 295 horsepower, providing adequate performance for daily driving. However, the real standout is the plug-in hybrid variant, the T8 Recharge. This powertrain combines a turbocharged and supercharged four-cylinder engine with electric motors to produce an impressive 455 horsepower and 523 pound-feet of torque. This performance translates to exhilarating acceleration, with 0-60 mph times in the low four-second range, all while achieving an impressive MPGe rating. For those who value safety, distinctive design, and a comfortable sanctuary on wheels, the Volvo S90, when available, is a noteworthy consideration for a luxury sedan with advanced safety.
BMW 5 Series: The Evolving Benchmark of Executive Luxury
The BMW 5 Series is a nameplate synonymous with executive luxury and engaging driving dynamics. However, in the highly competitive landscape of 2025, even this stalwart can be considered an underrated value, particularly in its entry-level configurations. The 5 Series starts at a price point that, while substantial, remains accessible for those entering the premium German sedan segment. The base 530i, with its 255-horsepower engine, offers a refined and comfortable experience, delivering adequate performance for most driving scenarios and an impressive EPA-rated 31 MPG combined. The 0-60 mph sprint in the five-second range further underscores its capable nature.
The interior of the 5 Series is a hallmark of BMW’s commitment to perceived quality and ergonomic design. Refinement and ride comfort are consistently praised, forming the core of the iconic 5 Series experience. For daily commuting and executive transport, the 530i presents a well-rounded package that provides entry into the coveted German luxury sedan club without an exorbitant cost. For those seeking more power, BMW offers the 540i xDrive with its potent 375-horsepower inline-six engine, ensuring that the 5 Series range caters to a broad spectrum of driver preferences. For buyers seeking a blend of prestigious brand heritage, refined driving dynamics, and available performance luxury cars, the BMW 5 Series remains an exceptional, and often underestimated, benchmark.
Lexus LC: The Exquisite Grand Tourer Masterpiece
At the pinnacle of our list, and representing a different breed of luxury entirely, sits the Lexus LC. This flagship coupe and convertible is a automotive work of art, a testament to Lexus’s willingness to push the boundaries of design and engineering in pursuit of pure driving pleasure and breathtaking aesthetics. Since its debut, the LC has been a halo car, a statement piece that embodies passion and exclusivity. Its high starting MSRP, over $100,000 for the coupe, positions it in a rarefied air, yet its merits often go underappreciated by those solely focused on raw performance metrics.
The heart of the LC 500 is its naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 engine, a glorious piece of engineering that delivers a visceral soundtrack and potent performance. This engine, increasingly a rarity, imbues the LC with a character that is both thrilling and soul-stirring. The exterior design is undeniably seductive, featuring flowing lines and an imposing stance that turns heads wherever it goes. Inside, the cabin is a sanctuary of luxury, appointed with premium materials, meticulously crafted details, and cutting-edge technology. Features like heated and ventilated seats, a premium sound system, and a comprehensive suite of safety technologies are standard.
While the LC is engineered as a grand tourer, prioritizing comfort and composure over outright track-day aggression, its dynamics are refined and engaging. For those seeking a luxury grand tourer that combines exquisite design, a sonorous V8 engine, and an unparalleled sense of occasion, the Lexus LC is an unmatched proposition. Its high price and focus on refined touring rather than sharp dynamics can lead to it being overlooked, but for the discerning enthusiast, it represents an attainable dream of automotive perfection in 2025.
The Road Ahead: Embracing Value and Distinction
The premium automotive market of 2025 is richer and more diverse than ever. While established luxury brands continue to innovate, a wave of exceptionally competent and beautifully crafted vehicles from marques like Genesis, Mazda, and even Toyota’s mainstream division are offering compelling alternatives that challenge the conventional wisdom of luxury car ownership. These underrated luxury cars are not merely about saving money; they represent a strategic choice to prioritize genuine value, distinctive character, and often, a more engaging driving experience.
As you navigate the evolving landscape of premium automobiles, I encourage you to look beyond the most heavily advertised models. Explore these contenders with an open mind, test drive their offerings, and experience firsthand the exceptional quality and performance they deliver. The opportunity to own a truly luxurious and impressive vehicle without compromising on your financial prudence has never been greater. Consider us your guide in this exciting journey; we are ready to help you discover the perfect luxury vehicle that aligns with your desires and your budget.
