Best Cars Of 2022 – The Greatest Cars In The World This Year
2022 was a year that made us look at performance cars a little differently. While some automakers stuck with their tried-and-true formulas, others completely flipped the script. Gone were the days of the “same old same old” as several brands embraced hybrid tech less reluctantly and gave us more turbocharged monsters and track-focused models.
From the roar of the Ferrari 296 GTB V6 hybrid to the thrilling track-ready Porsche 911 GT3, this lineup of machines, besides mind-boggling performance figures, shook the very idea of what a sports car should be like. Even the lower-tier gems, like that Nissan Z, delivered quite a punch. Fast cars don’t have to burn a hole in your pocket! Here are the standouts that hit the mark for thrilling reckonings of 2022 that had us grinning like kids in a candy store.
2022 BMW M2
The BMW M2 is a compact powerhouse. This compact BMW perfectly balances raw performance and everyday usability. Powered by a 3.0-liter twin-turbo inline-six engine, it delivers 453 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque, with a 0-60 mph time of just 4.1 seconds. This bimmer offers the pure, unfiltered driving experience that BMW enthusiasts crave, combining agility with precision handling.
One of the best features of the M2 is its manual transmission option. This gearbox gives drivers the chance to row through gears the old-fashioned way. BMW also offered the M2 with a responsive 8-speed automatic for those who prefer a quicker shift. A rear-wheel-drive layout and upgraded suspension ensure that this car hugs the road and responds instantly to steering inputs, making it perfect for both spirited drives and everyday commutes.
Visually, the M2 is unmistakably aggressive, with its flared fenders, massive front grille, and wide stance. Inside, it’s sporty yet refined, with high-quality materials and a driver-focused cockpit. Overall, the 2021 BMW M2 is a fantastic option for driving purists looking for excitement behind the wheel.
2022 Porsche 911 GT3 RS
The Porsche 911 GT3 RS is the ideal blend of street legality and track dominance, designed for those who demand the best in both performance and precision. It’s powered by a naturally aspirated 4.0-liter flat-six engine that produces 518 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque. With a 0-60 mph time of just 3.0 seconds, it offers blistering acceleration that’s hard to match.
More than just straight-line speed, the GT3 RS is engineered to excel on twisty roads and race tracks. Its active aerodynamics, rear-wheel steering, and fully adjustable suspension are just about to fine-tune the car for racing performance. The 7-speed dual-clutch transmission shifts in the blink of an eye, and with the lightweight body and great handling, the GT3 RS is an enthusiast’s car.
The 2021 Porsche GT3 RS was designed with racing in mind. It boasts aggressive aero components, a huge rear wing, and wide tires to hint at its track-ready nature. Inside, it’s a no-frills affair focused on performance with minimalist seating and a digital readout. This is the 911 GT3 RS: all thrills, whether on the racetrack or thrifted into a canyon.
2022 Subaru BRZ
The 2022 Subaru BRZ was born from the collaboration between Toyota and Subaru. This is a sports car aimed at enthusiasts who want an easy, nimble drive. Like the Toyota GR86, it’s an affordable, light-feeling car that prioritizes nimble handling over horsepower and the hefty price tag that normally comes with it. This rear-wheel-drive coupe is a unique offering within Subaru’s predominantly all-wheel-drive lineup.
Equipped with a naturally aspirated flat-four engine producing 228 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, a significant increase over its predecessor, the BRZ addresses a key criticism of earlier models. The car’s output is sent to the rear wheels through a six-speed manual. This newfound power is combined with a lowered center of gravity and a remarkably light curb weight. This car empowers the assertively styled 2+2 hatchback to deliver the exhilarating, visceral driving experience of a true sports cars.
Beyond the additional performance, the 2022 BRZ also boasts a freshened interior that folds in modern tech into its design without abandoning the practicality of the car it replaces. The ensuing more premium cabin and excellent driving dynamics elevate the BRZ past some of the class’s top picks, like the Mazda MX-5 Miata.
2022 Ferrari 296 GTB
The Ferrari 296 GTB is a hybrid supercar that combines electrification with Ferrari’s storied performance heritage. Powered by a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine paired with an electric motor, the 296 GTB produces a total of 818 horsepower and 546 pound-feet of torque. Its hybrid powertrain allows for a seamless blend of power, with electric torque providing instant acceleration, while the V6 delivers the unmistakable Ferrari sound. The 296 GTB can hit 0-60 mph in just 2.9 seconds and reach a top speed of 205 mph.
But the 296 GTB isn’t just about power; it’s also a masterclass in handling. Thanks to Ferrari’s sophisticated suspension system and lightweight carbon fiber body, the car feels incredibly agile on both tight corners and high-speed straights. Additionally, the eight-speed dual-clutch transmission offers lightning-fast shifts, making the 296 GTB an absolute thrill to drive.
The design of the 296 GTB is sleek and futuristic, with fluid lines and an aggressive front end. Inside, it’s the perfect blend of luxury and tech, with a minimalistic cabin featuring a large digital display that keeps track of all performance data. The 296 GTB proves that hybrid power can be both thrilling and sustainable.
2022 Nissan Z
The Nissan Z is a modern reincarnation of the iconic Z car. Introduced in the summer of 2021, the Z offers a thrilling, pure driving experience wrapped in retro-inspired design. The heart of the generation of the Z is a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine, producing a healthy 400 horses and a torque of 350 pound-feet. This powertrain provides plenty of punch, with the 0-60 mph sprint taking just 4.5 seconds.
What makes the Z so special is its simplicity. It’s a rear-wheel-drive sports car with a manual transmission option, allowing for a true connection between driver and machine. The 6-speed manual transmission is paired with a responsive nine-speed automatic for those who prefer fast shifts. The Z’s suspension is finely tuned to provide a perfect balance of comfort and performance, making it just as fun on a back road as it is on a racetrack.
Visually, the Z takes inspiration from its heritage. Nissan gave it retro styling cues that pay homage to the classic 240Z while adding modern touches. Inside, the cabin is minimalist and driver-centric, with an easy-to-read display and high-quality materials. The Nissan Z offers a pure, unfiltered driving experience that enthusiasts love.
2022 Maserati MC20
The Maserati MC20 is an Italian supercar that brings together beautiful design, exhilarating performance, and cutting-edge technology. Powered by Maserati’s new Nettuno 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine, the MC20 produces 621 hp and 538 lb-ft of torque, enabling it to accelerate from 0-60 mph in just 2.9 seconds. With a top speed of over 200 mph, the MC20 is a true contender in the supercar arena.
But this is not only about speed; The 2022 MC20 combines a lightweight carbon fiber monocoque chassis with probably the most sophisticated suspension system available, allowing it not just to accelerate blindingly fast but also to corner with unbelievable grace. With eight speeds packaged in a dual-clutch transmission for rapid up- and downshifts, mated to a rear-wheel-drive layout for greater balance and agility.
The design of this Maserati is pure elegance. Its aerodynamic form and aggressive lines are emblematic of Maserati’s philosophy of luxury and performance. The interior shimmers with high-end materials and advanced technology, offering relaxation and cutting-edge efficiency. Maserati MC20 is better described as an experience that’s as marvelous to look at as it is to drive, rather than an ultimately standard car.
2022 Aston Martin Vantage
The Aston Martin Vantage is a stunningly beautiful British sports car. This two-seater grand tourer delivers an intoxicating blend of performance, luxury, and style. Powered by a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine developed in partnership with Mercedes-AMG, the Vantage churns out 503 horsepower and 505 pound-feet of torque. With a 0-60 mph time of just 3.5 seconds, the Vantage is a true powerhouse that can keep pace with some of the most renowned names in the sports car world.
A key highlight of the Vantage is its ability to handle with remarkable precision. The car’s rear-wheel-drive chassis is paired with a seven-speed manual or eight-speed automatic transmission, making it a driver’s car at its core. The Vantage’s suspension is finely tuned to deliver an engaging and composed driving experience, whether you’re attacking tight corners or cruising down the highway.
Visually, the Vantage is everything you’d expect from an Aston Martin—sleek, elegant, and athletic. The wide front grille, aggressive stance, and flowing lines make it a showstopper wherever it goes. Inside, the interior is luxurious, with high-end materials and an intuitive infotainment system. The Aston Martin Vantage is a car that excites with every drive while embodying the British marque’s commitment to elegance and performance.
2022 Mercedes-AMG GT R
The Mercedes-AMG GT R is an unapologetically aggressive supercar that’s as thrilling to drive as it is to admire. Below the long hood rests a monstrous 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine generating 577 horsepower with a mighty 516 pound-feet of torque. This engine takes the GT R from standstill to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds with the help of a brand new and super-fast seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Approaching a top speed of 198 mph, this beast is equally adept at attacking a racetrack and attracting attention while cruising down the boulevard.
What makes the GT R special is its active handling skills, helped by tech like rear-wheel steering, adaptive suspension, and a limited-slip differential. Whether it’s carving corners or hitting the straights, the car is planted and confidence-inspiring. It makes it feel so much lighter, with the chassis that is incredibly responsive to driver input, which contributes to a visceral driving experience.
Visually, the GT R commands attention with its wide fenders, gaping grille, and a massive rear wing that screams purpose-built performance. The cabin combines traditional AMG luxury with a sporty focus, which balances premium materials and intuitive controls. As much sledgehammer as scalpel, the Mercedes-AMG GT R manages an incredible balance of sheer power and surgically honed engineering.
2022 Audi R8 V10
The Audi R8 V10 delicately balances supercar performance with everyday usability. It’s a favorite among enthusiasts. Its naturally aspirated 5.2-liter V10 engine, sourced from Lamborghini, produces 572 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque in the base model. You can also opt for the thrilling 602 horses and 413 pound-feet of torque in the Performance version. This powerhouse propels the R8 from 0-60 mph in as little as 3.2 seconds and delivers a blistering top speed of 205 mph. It provides the kind of responsiveness that only a naturally aspirated engine can offer.
Audi’s renowned Quattro all-wheel-drive system ensures the R8 V10 remains composed and confident in all driving conditions. The seven-speed dual-clutch transmission shifts with lightning precision, while the magnetic ride control and dynamic suspension provide a seamless blend of comfort and handling. Whether on a track or the daily commute, the R8 feels perfectly at home.
The design is unmistakably Audi, with sharp lines, a low-slung stance, and an aggressive grille that turns heads at every corner. Inside, the cabin exudes modern sophistication, featuring a digital cockpit, premium materials, and ergonomic controls. The Audi R8 V10 stands out as a supercar that doesn’t demand sacrifices, combining stunning looks, exhilarating performance, and genuine practicality.
2022 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1
Despite not being the most powerful muscle car, the 2022 Chevy Camaro ZL1 offers unparalleled drive engagement and near-supercar performance at an affordable price. Its 650-horsepower and 650 pound-feet of torque supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine is a masterpiece. Enthusiasts have a choice between a precise six-speed manual or a competent ten-speed automatic, thereby catering to both purists and the comfortable. The fast-shifting automatic allows quicker acceleration than the manual, going from 0 to 60 mph in 3.4 seconds and reaching 190 mph.
The ZL1 offers a convertible bodystyle for a wind-in-the-hair experience, and its terraforming 1LE track package, which delivers nearly supercar-like handling, enhances its appeal and makes the prospect of buying even more compelling. That said, the ZL1 is quirky. The 1LE is indeed capable on the racetrack, but its extremely stiff suspension may put off those who prefer a more relaxed, comfortable driving experience.
However, the visibility inside the Camaro is unappealing, and its interior material composition falls short of that of some of its competitors. Minor inconveniences aside, the ZL1 is undoubtedly a driver’s dream, guaranteeing exciting thrills and a hot-blooded performance of assertion that continues to daunt its fiercest rivals.
