LONG LIVE THE KINGS

Electric vehicles are now gaining ground on the combustion-powered performance cars that have long held sway. But one thing hasn't changed: the fierce competition to be crowned kings of the road. Here is a specially curated fleet of top contenders from Robb Report's annual Car of the Year line-up

- Robert Ross and Viju Mathew

BMW

i7 xDrive60

With its electrified 7 Series, BMW throws down the gauntlet in a claim for electric vehicle (EV) world domination. Yet some BMW diehards might feel that dual electric motors and a one-speed automatic transmission turn the Ultimate Driving Machine into the Ultimate Sewing Machine. No car this year elicited so many polarised opinions from our judges as this 2,715kg cruiser.

Certainly, the vehicle’s advanced technology offers impressive convenience and luxury, transforming the cabin into a rolling executive lounge. Some judges connected to the maximalist vibe, including Keith Berglund, who “very much enjoyed the interior styling, the room, handling and classic look”, while also noting “it’s a little slow compared to the Audi”. Rick Westbrook mostly seconded that assessment. “It’s a great car for a long drive if you can find a charging station on your route,” he said. “It’s a little busy on the interior, but still beautiful.”

That busyness, however, raised more than a few of our judges’ hackles. Remarking on the fake crystal gewgaws festooning the centre console and door panels, Honor Guthrie quipped that “Bavarian Motor Works becomes Baccarat Motor Works”. Lindsay Smith agreed, saying: “It definitely tells a story, but the wrong one. The crystal details seem tacky—out of place in a BMW.”