2. BMW 3 Series

BMW’s top-selling car is the 3 Series, and that’s for obvious reasons. It’s a step above entry level, which then contains more of the comfort features and more space than the 2 Series. That goes especially for the 3-Series Sports Wagon and the Gran Turismo, both with room for extra junk in the trunk.

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The 3 Series has a 2.0-liter turbocharged gas engine, a 3.0-liter gas 6-cylinder, and a 2.0-liter turbo-diesel across nearly all the body styles. BMW’s xDrive AWD system can also go with any of the three. Inside the 3 Series, elegant, sweeping lines are standard. Adaptive headlights, adaptive cruise control and high-quality materials are available. That includes red-stitched leather in the M-Sport package. Whatever you do, invest in Gesture Control.

1. Mercedes-Benz C-Class

The most popular luxury car in America is the C-Class from Mercedes-Benz. Although it’s one of the most affordable Mercedes models, there are no shortcuts taken here. The C-Class is a compact sedan, but it has big attitude. The C300 has 241 hp from its 2.0-liter engine, which is enough for most people. If you want to go big or go home, the AMG C63 S tops out the C-Class with 503 hp. That will get your blood pumping.

Mercedes-Benz’s Intelligent Drive can watch for hazards 360 degrees around your car, and the optional Head-Up Display is perfectly positioned to be helpful. It masterfully controls your sounds system. And, if you like it more mysterious, choose the blacked-out Night package.

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