Despite the strength of the Euro versus the dollar, the fourth-place Audi A6 delivers more content for the money and far classier materials, fit, and finish than the Caddy. Direct-injection gives the new 3.2-liter Audi V-6 surprising punch and efficiency, but chassis dynamics are only midpack, and the styling revisions for the 2005 model seem forced and less artfully done than the previous version's.
Like all BMW sedans over the last three decades, the 530i leaves no doubt that it's a driver's car. It has great poise, finely balanced weight distribution, and a turbine-smooth inline-six, and it tied for first place in Motor Trend's figure-eight test. So why isn't the 530i the overall winner? We found the middle BMW polarizing, some editors enjoying its harder edges but many flummoxed by the unpredictability of its Active Steering, confused by obtuse iDrive functions, and repelled by its "flame-buoyant" styling. All agreed that the third-place 530i offers the least value for the money.
The all-new Acura RL is the well-mannered guest. It's a plug-and-play proposition with a high degree of technical sophistication and the most power of the cars in the test group. For a single, value-filled price, it packs all-wheel drive and more infotainment and high-tech goodies into the standard-equipment list than any other car here. Several staffers preferred the RL's blend of luxury and performance, but others felt it lacks the visceral immediacy and tactile feedback to the steering, throttle, and brakes that are hallmarks of a true driver's car. Second place--but barely.
You'll find those qualities, and more, in the first-place finisher, the Infiniti M35. Though not as powerful as the Acura RL, the M35 proved the quickest, thanks to lower weight and closer-ratio gearing. The Infiniti's front-midship layout provides near-perfect weight balance, and the chassis communicates texture and grain that makes the driving experience all the richer. Of course, the Infiniti's cabin is hushed and exquisitely trimmed in rich leather, real wood, and techno-toys, but look, traffic's just cleared. Time to put down the joystick and grip that steering wheel. When the road is yours and yours alone, you'll want to be behind the wheel of the Infiniti M35.