Reflecting on a Landmark Year for CarExpert: Editors Share Their Top Picks
As we look back on a year that has truly distinguished itself, CarExpert’s 2023 has proven to be one of our most significant to date. With an influx of new vehicles poised to arrive in the market—an expansion set to extend into 2025—standing out in this competitive landscape requires something extraordinary.
Here, our editorial team presents their top vehicle choices of the year. We invite you to share your own perspectives—do you share our sentiments, or do you see it differently? Dive into our selections below and let the discussion commence in the comments section!
Marton Pettendy: Hyundai Ioniq 5 N
This year’s optimal drive could not contrast more starkly with last year’s champion, the 992-series Porsche 911 GT3 RS—a symbol of street-legal racing excellence and peak natural aspirational power. Yet ironically, my choice for the year’s standout vehicle is not only an SUV but also an electric vehicle.
Hyundai’s inaugural high-performance electric N-car has successfully captured the imaginations of both enthusiasts and critics alike, maintaining its allure more than six months post-launch. My recent experience at Hyundai’s N Fest confirmed the enthusiasm.
While the Ioniq 5 N does carry a noticeable weight, its performance is remarkable. During rigorous testing at Morgan Park Raceway, even with its sizable 84kWh battery, the vehicle exhibited reliability over three steamy Queensland days—an impressive feat even for accolades typically reserved for brands like Porsche.
The Ioniq 5 N boasts an output of 478 kW and 770 Nm—outclassing the Porsche in raw power. With a rear-biased all-wheel drive system featuring drift mode, this electric marvel soared past 200 km/h effortlessly at the circuit, showcasing the extraordinary engineering that lays the groundwork for an exhilarating electric future.
Jack Quick: Lexus LC500 Convertible
Among the iconic vehicles I had the pleasure of driving this year, the Lexus LC500 Convertible stood out distinctly. Its aesthetics scream refined luxury without resorting to ostentation, particularly in its striking Infrared hue.
Equipped with a Yamaha-tuned 5.0-liter naturally aspirated V8, this car truly performs. The engine’s symphony is unlike anything I’ve experienced, producing unadulterated joy as I hit the redline. The scarcity of such cars makes my appreciation for the LC500 even more profound.
Jordan Mulach: Audi RS7 Performance
While my driving schedule this year has been less extensive than some of my peers, the final days of the year brought me face-to-face with the Audi RS7 Performance—which utterly redefined my expectations.
Initially leaning towards the Ford Everest Wildtrak and Cupra Leon VZx, I was swept away by the sheer dynamism of the RS7. It effortlessly transitions from a plush commuter to a beastly performance machine at the push of a button, cloaked in a growl that belies its size. Despite its imposing stature, this vehicle demonstrates an astonishing agility, making it equally adept on the race track and Australia’s expansive highways.
William Stopford: Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray
In the spirit of an old Vanessa L. Williams lyric, 2024 has indeed saved the best for last. My birthday week brought a delightful lineup of rides, including the Corvette E-Ray. This hybrid sports car exceeds expectations with its 6.2-liter V8, a sonorous delight that outshines its Australian-spec Z06 counterpart.
Rain dampened my driving enthusiasm, but the E-Ray’s all-wheel-drive system inspired confidence. Its comfort and impressive spec—with alluring silver and blue accents—further enhanced the experience. This model makes a compelling case for luxury without sacrificing performance.
Max Davies: Audi RS e-tron GT
Throughout the year, my driving experiences have included many remarkable vehicles, but the Audi RS e-tron GT leaves an indelible impression. This electric grand tourer, valued at over $250,000, boasts an aesthetic that captivates from the moment you lay eyes on it.
Having driven it during Audi’s Media Drive Experience at Sydney Motorsport Park, I encountered adrenaline-inducing exercises that showcased its capabilities—culminating in a tight motorkhana where I claimed the fastest time. Sharing this experience with such a remarkable vehicle was a definitive highlight of my year.
Josh Nevett: Lexus LC500
Interestingly, the highlight of my year began early on with a brief yet exhilarating stint in the Lexus LC500. This coupe, despite its struggle for broader market appeal, captivates with a combination of stunning design and masterful engineering. The 5.0-liter V8’s harmonious notes paired with a plush interior mark it as a rare gem in today’s automotive landscape. Although ownership seems a distant dream, my memories from our brief encounter are forever etched in my mind.
Paul Maric: BYD Shark 6
My journey with the BYD Shark 6 surprised me at multiple junctions. Firstly, the competitive price seemed almost too good to be true. However, once behind the wheel, the interior quality rivals that of premium vehicles—contradicting its budget-friendly tag.
Equipped with advanced technology and impressive agility, it performs exceptionally well considering its heft. While not without its quirks, the Shark 6 embodies great value, offering far more than its rivals while breaking conventional standards in dual-cab utility.
James Wong: Aston Martin Vanquish
This year has been marked by memorable vehicles, but nothing compares to the realization of a lifelong dream: driving the third-generation Aston Martin Vanquish in the stunning backdrop of Sardinia. The thrill of piloting this high-performance machine exceeded my every expectation.
With its new twin-turbo V12 engine, the Vanquish propelled me forward with an exhilarating sense of urgency. The scenic routes of Sardinia encapsulated a cinematic experience akin to classic automotive shows. This unique encounter at the tender age of 30 has left me reflecting on what seems a chapter worth cherishing forever.
As we close the chapter on 2023, these accounts are a testament to a year filled with exceptional automobiles and unforgettable experiences. We eagerly await your thoughts and selections for the standout vehicles of the year. Let’s keep the conversation rolling!
Source:www.carexpert.com.au
