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The relationship between Ridge and Brooke, often seen as the ultimate B&B romance, is under intense scrutiny in a new “Spoilers” update. Fans and characters alike are asking the question: “Is Ridge Emotionally Controlling Brooke?” Recent episodes have highlighted a series of behaviors from Ridge that suggest a more manipulative side to his personality. From dictating Brooke’s professional choices at Forrester Creations to isolating her from certain family members under the guise of “protection,” Ridge’s actions are beginning to raise red flags. This storyline explores the subtle and often invisible nature of “Emotional Control” in a long-term relationship. Brooke, who has always been a strong and independent woman, seems to be losing her voice in the marriage, leading to concerns from her sisters and Hope. The psychological drama focuses on the thin line between passion and possession, as Ridge’s desire to keep Brooke “safe” begins to look like a desire for total dominance. As Brooke starts to realize the pattern of control, she is forced to confront Ridge, leading to a series of intense and emotional confrontations. This “Marriage in Crisis” storyline is a bold exploration of relationship dynamics, challenging the “Destiny” narrative that has defined the couple for decades. The fallout will force both characters to re-evaluate their connection and whether a healthy future is possible without a fundamental change in their behavior.
The Underrated Allure: Navigating the Value in 2025’s Premium Automotive Landscape
The automotive market in 2025 presents a fascinating paradox. While the established luxury titans continue to command attention with their heritage and bleeding-edge technology, a compelling narrative is unfolding for those discerning buyers seeking exceptional value without compromising on refinement, performance, or sophisticated design. This year, more than ever, a decade of hands-on experience in the premium automotive sector reveals a landscape where prestige doesn’t always equate to the most astute purchase. We’re witnessing a shift, where brands are delivering increasingly compelling packages that often outperform their more hyped counterparts, especially when considering the total cost of ownership and the sheer joy of the driving experience.
Let’s delve into the vehicles that are quietly redefining what it means to be a premium choice in 2025, moving beyond the badge to the substance. Our focus remains squarely on the value in premium sedans and SUVs, identifying models that offer a superior blend of features, performance, and craftsmanship, often at a more accessible price point than the conventional leaders.
The Compact Contenders: Punchy Performance in Smaller Packages
The segment for compact premium sedans continues to evolve, offering tantalizing glimpses of luxury performance for those who don’t require cavernous interiors. While enthusiast-focused models often steal the headlines, the mainstream variants of these vehicles are where true everyday brilliance can be found.
The 2025 Cadillac CT4, starting at an accessible $34,995, exemplifies this trend. While the performance-oriented CT4-V and the exhilarating CT4-V Blackwing grab attention with their formidable power figures, the core CT4 offers a deeply satisfying experience. The available 2.7-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, shared with the CT4-V but tuned slightly down to 310 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque in the Premium Luxury trim, is more than capable. This setup propels the CT4 to 60 mph in a brisk 4.8 seconds, a figure that belies its compact stature. For those prioritizing fuel efficiency, the standard 237-horsepower engine delivers an impressive EPA-estimated 26 MPG combined, making it an economical yet premium daily driver. While some critics have pointed to interior material quality when compared to certain rivals, the overall package, particularly with the optional powertrain upgrades, offers a compelling argument for affordable luxury sedans.
However, for buyers prioritizing space and a more commanding presence, the realm of mid-sized, three-row SUVs presents an equally compelling value proposition.
The Family-Focused Fortitude: Space and Sophistication
In the competitive SUV market, practicality and refinement often take center stage for families. The 2025 Mazda CX-90, with a starting MSRP of $38,800, stands out as a remarkably well-executed, yet perhaps understated, choice. Mazda has long been lauded for its driver-centric approach, and the CX-90 carries that DNA into the three-row segment. Its upscale interior, featuring standard leatherette-trimmed seats and the brand’s comprehensive i-ACTIVSENSE safety suite, exudes a premium feel that often surpasses expectations at this price point.
The heart of the CX-90’s appeal lies in its potent yet refined inline-six engine. Base models offer a robust 280 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque, providing ample power for highway merging and confident acceleration. What truly impresses is how the CX-90 handles. Its steering is accurate and fluid, its responses are buttoned-down, and its body control is sophisticated, making it feel smaller and more agile than its dimensions suggest. This driving dynamism, combined with the spaciousness for up to eight occupants and optional amenities like a panoramic sunroof and hands-free tailgate, positions the CX-90 as a strong contender for those seeking a luxury three-row SUV value. It’s worth noting the closely related Mazda CX-70, which offers a slightly different configuration but doesn’t diminish the CX-90’s inherent strengths in the three-row SUV segment.
The Under-the-Radar Innovators: Bridging Segments with Style and Substance
Sometimes, the most exciting automotive advancements come from brands that are adept at blending familiar comfort with unexpected sophistication. These vehicles often operate just outside the mainstream luxury spotlight, offering a unique blend of attributes.
The 2025 Toyota Crown, beginning at $41,440, is a prime example of a vehicle that defies easy categorization and offers exceptional value in a luxury sedan. While Toyota is synonymous with reliability and mainstream appeal, the Crown injects a dose of Lexus-like refinement and distinctive styling into its lineup. This “jacked-up sedan” concept, as it’s been described, provides a comfortable, elevated driving position while retaining the elegance of a premium sedan. Early reviews highlight its Lexus-inspired interior, featuring premium materials and a quiet, comfortable cabin.
The hybrid powertrain in the standard Crown delivers a respectable 236 horsepower, achieving 60 mph in around seven seconds. For those seeking more exhilarating performance, the top-tier Platinum trim boasts the Hybrid Max system, unleashing 340 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque, cutting the 0-60 mph sprint down to an impressive five seconds. The inclusion of standard all-wheel drive across all trims further enhances its appeal. For buyers who appreciate the Crown’s elevated approach but prefer a more conventional SUV silhouette, the Toyota Crown Signia variant offers a compelling crossover alternative. The Crown represents a fascinating play for underrated luxury cars that blend familiarity with a dash of the unexpected.
The 2025 Lexus IS, with a starting MSRP of $41,830, has long been a quiet achiever in the compact executive sedan space. Often overshadowed by its German rivals, the IS offers a compelling combination of comfort, premium materials, and an impressive array of standard features, including the brand’s renowned safety suite. While its driving dynamics might be perceived as softer than some competitors, this approach translates to a remarkably comfortable ride, a key consideration for many luxury car buyers.
The 2025 model year, and indeed the upcoming 2026 refresh, continues this legacy. For 2026, the IS has undergone a significant update, featuring a refreshed exterior, an updated interior, and a larger 12.3-inch infotainment display. Perhaps the most significant news for enthusiasts is the consolidation of the range to the IS 350, powered by a 311-horsepower naturally aspirated V6 engine that can achieve 0-60 mph in the five-second range. This focus on a capable V6 engine ensures a satisfying auditory and performance experience. While the brand still promotes the 2025 model for US customers, the direction for the 2026 IS signals a continued commitment to refined driving pleasure, making it a strong contender for refined compact luxury sedans.
The Value Proposition: Korean Ingenuity and American Comfort
In recent years, brands outside the traditional European luxury triumvirate have made significant strides, offering compelling alternatives that often deliver more for the money.
The 2025 Genesis G70, starting at $43,450, is a masterclass in delivering premium features and performance at a price that undercuts its German competitors like the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class. Genesis, a relatively new entrant, has rapidly established itself by offering upscale amenities, premium materials, and an agile chassis. Buyers can opt for features like heated and ventilated seats, and the choice of potent turbocharged engines. The range-topping 3.3-liter twin-turbo V6, producing 365 horsepower, rockets the G70 to 60 mph in an astonishing 4.5 seconds, rivaling performance figures from much more expensive vehicles.
While the G70 may lack the decades-long brand heritage of some rivals, its inherent strengths are undeniable. Concerns about dealer networks or fuel economy on the base four-cylinder model (around 24 MPG combined) are valid, but they don’t detract from the exceptional value proposition for the performance and luxury on offer. For those seeking performance luxury sedans that offer excellent value, the Genesis G70 presents a compelling case.
Transitioning to the realm of premium SUVs, the 2025 Lincoln Nautilus, with a starting MSRP of $53,995, redefines what an American luxury SUV can be. Stepping into the Nautilus is an immediate immersion in luxury, with high-end materials, advanced active safety features, and a remarkably comfortable ride. The centerpiece of the interior is a stunning 48-inch screen that spans the dashboard, creating a futuristic and immersive environment. While the Lincoln badge may not carry the same cachet as some German marques, the Nautilus delivers substantial value for money, offering an experience that is nothing short of luxurious.
The driving experience is characterized by a profound sense of quietness and smoothness, particularly in the available hybrid configuration. The hybrid setup boasts 310 horsepower and provides an incredibly refined and serene journey. Even the standard turbocharged four-cylinder engine offers a respectable 250 horsepower, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. While sharper rivals like the BMW X7 command significantly higher price tags, the Nautilus offers a sophisticated and opulent experience that squarely targets buyers prioritizing comfort and advanced technology. It stands as a testament to the evolving landscape of American luxury SUVs.
The 2025 Genesis GV80, with a starting MSRP of $57,700, continues Genesis’s mission to disrupt the luxury SUV market. Despite its many merits and distinctive design, it often finds itself in the shadow of more established European contenders. This is partly due to the inherent prestige associated with long-standing European brands and perhaps a subconscious bias that lower pricing equates to lesser luxury. However, the GV80 defies these perceptions by offering a plush cabin, high-quality materials, an original design, and an abundance of cutting-edge features. From the expansive 27-inch dashboard screen to heated seats, wireless phone charging, and a powered tailgate, the GV80 is generously equipped.
The powertrain options are equally impressive, featuring a 300-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder and a potent 375-horsepower twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6. The V6-equipped GV80 can accelerate to 60 mph in under six seconds, putting it on par with the performance of more expensive rivals like the BMW X7. The GV80 is an exceptional choice for those who desire true opulence and are willing to prioritize substance over badge prestige to achieve a fair price. It’s a standout in the premium SUV value category.
The Established Elite: Still Offering Value Beyond the Sticker Price
While the narrative often centers on value-oriented newcomers, even the most established luxury brands are capable of offering compelling packages that represent smart choices in 2025.
The 2025 Volvo S90, though not currently on sale in the US for the 2025 model year, has historically represented an underrated luxury option. When available, it often offered a lower price point than key rivals, depending on trim and configuration. While some reviews have noted criticisms regarding ride and powertrain refinement compared to competitors, the S90 has consistently been a competent, safe, and relatively luxurious sedan. Its appeal lies in its distinct Scandinavian design ethos, a hallmark of the Volvo brand.
Features typically include heated seats, a panoramic sunroof, standard all-wheel drive, and a wealth of upscale materials. The base four-cylinder engine provides a respectable 295 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, achieving an EPA-rated 26 MPG combined. For those seeking significant performance, the plug-in hybrid T8 variant offers a potent combination of a turbocharged and supercharged four-cylinder engine with electric motors, delivering a formidable 455 horsepower and 523 pound-feet of torque, with an EPA-rated 66-MPGe combined figure. Enthusiasts will certainly appreciate the blistering four-second 0-60 mph time this powertrain achieves, making the S90 a surprisingly potent performer.
The 2025 BMW 5 Series, with a starting MSRP of $59,900, might seem like a conventional luxury choice, but the base 530i version, in particular, could be considered an underrated gem. While the segment is highly competitive, the 5 Series offers a starting price that, while substantial, remains reasonable within the luxury sedan class. Some interior appointments might not reach the heights of cheaper alternatives, but the overall package remains strong. The base 255-horsepower engine in the 530i is adequate for daily driving, and the EPA-rated 31 MPG combined figure is commendable.
The perceived quality and refinement of the 5 Series interior are consistent with BMW’s high standards. The ride comfort and overall refinement are cornerstones of this iconic model, making the 530i an excellent all-around choice for those entering the premium German sedan club without a stratospheric price tag. For those desiring more power, the $67,000 540i xDrive offers a potent 375-horsepower inline-six engine.
The Pinnacle of Performance and Design: Where Exclusivity Meets Excellence
At the apex of the automotive pyramid, where ultimate luxury and exhilarating performance converge, certain vehicles stand apart, even if their price tags place them in a different conversation.
The 2025 Lexus LC, with a starting MSRP of $101,700, is the flagship coupe and convertible from Lexus, a vehicle that has been a masterpiece of design and engineering since its introduction. It represents the pinnacle of Lexus’s automotive artistry, blending stunning aesthetics with a captivating driving experience. The coupe version commands a price just over $100,000, with the convertible adding an additional $8,000. What truly sets the LC apart is its naturally aspirated V8 engine, a rarity in today’s automotive landscape. This potent engine, also found in the now-discontinued RC F and IS 500 F Sport Performance, delivers a visceral and engaging driving experience.
The LC500’s engine note is a symphony, evoking a sense of occasion and anticipation with every rev. The exterior design is breathtaking, and the interior is a sanctuary of plush comfort, adorned with premium features. This includes Lexus’s comprehensive Safety System+ 2.5, a glass roof with a sunshade, eight-way power-adjustable heated and ventilated front seats, and a 12-speaker premium audio system. While the LC is configured as a grand tourer, prioritizing comfort over razor-sharp dynamics, its rear-wheel drive and naturally aspirated V8 make it a formidable contender against rivals from Porsche and Jaguar. The Lexus LC’s high price, the absence of a manual transmission, and its more comfort-oriented dynamics might lead some to consider it underrated compared to other luxury cars, but its inherent merits, especially in 2025, are undeniable for those seeking a blend of performance, style, and exclusivity.
Making Your Informed Decision
The automotive landscape of 2025 is richer and more diverse than ever. While the allure of established luxury badges remains strong, a deeper dive reveals compelling opportunities for savvy buyers to secure exceptional vehicles that deliver on performance, refinement, and technology without the inflated cost. Whether you’re drawn to the dynamic prowess of a compact sedan, the family-friendly versatility of a three-row SUV, or the sophisticated comfort of a larger luxury offering, there are standout options that redefine what constitutes premium automotive value.
If you’re ready to explore these compelling alternatives and discover a vehicle that truly aligns with your needs and desires, we encourage you to visit your local dealerships and experience these models firsthand. A test drive can reveal the true character of these often-overlooked gems, helping you make an informed decision that brings both satisfaction and exceptional value to your driving life.
