Best New AWD Sports Cars, Exotics & Supercars

Why We Picked It:

The 2025 Toyota GR Corolla returns with a vengeance, solidifying its position as a rally-bred hot hatchback that's ready to tackle both the street and the track. This year, the GR Corolla receives a number of enhancements that further elevate its performance and appeal, while retaining the core elements that made it an instant hit with enthusiasts. Under the hood, the turbocharged 1.6-liter three-cylinder engine gets a slight power bump, now producing 300 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. This increase in grunt enhances the GR Corolla's already impressive acceleration, making it even quicker off the line and out of corners.  

One of the most significant updates for 2025 is the addition of an eight-speed automatic transmission option, dubbed the "GR Direct Automatic Transmission" (DAT). This new gearbox offers lightning-fast shifts and paddle shifters for manual control, providing an alternative to the standard six-speed manual transmission. The GR Corolla's all-wheel-drive system, with its GR-Four technology, allows for variable torque distribution between the front and rear axles, providing optimal traction and control in various driving conditions.  

The GR Corolla's aggressive styling remains largely unchanged, with its wide fenders, prominent rear spoiler, and triple-exit exhaust conveying its performance intentions. Inside, the cabin is driver-focused, with sport seats, a GR-badged steering wheel, and aluminum pedals.

The 2025 model introduces a new Circuit Edition, which adds features like a carbon-fiber roof, a vented hood bulge, and a Morizo Edition-inspired rear spoiler. With its combination of rally-bred performance, sharp handling, and aggressive styling, the 2025 Toyota GR Corolla continues to be a compelling choice for enthusiasts seeking a thrilling and capable hot hatchback.

Why We Picked It:

The 2025 BMW M4 continues to be a compelling choice for those seeking a high-performance coupe with striking design and exhilarating performance. It shares its potent twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine with the M3, offering 473 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque in the standard M4, and a more aggressive 503 horsepower and 479 lb-ft in the Competition model. Transmission choices remain the same, with a standard six-speed manual catering to purists and an optional eight-speed automatic providing lightning-fast shifts.  

Like the M3, the M4 benefits from a meticulously tuned chassis, adaptive M suspension, and precise steering. This translates to exceptional handling and agility, allowing the M4 to carve through corners with confidence and precision. The available M xDrive all-wheel-drive system further enhances traction and control, making the M4 a formidable machine in all conditions. Visually, the M4 distinguishes itself with a sleek coupe silhouette, a bold front grille design, and aggressive aerodynamic elements.  

M Sport seats provide excellent support during spirited driving, while premium materials and refined finishes create an atmosphere of sophistication. The 2025 M4 also receives the latest iDrive 8.5 infotainment software, along with subtle styling updates and new wheel designs.

Why We Picked It:

The 2025 Maserati GranTurismo marks a triumphant return for the iconic Italian grand tourer, blending timeless elegance with modern performance and technology. This sleek coupe offers a captivating driving experience, whether you opt for the exhilarating roar of a traditional gasoline engine or the silent surge of electric power.

The GranTurismo Trofeo embraces Maserati's performance heritage with a potent 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine, a detuned version of the Nettuno engine found in the MC20 supercar. This powerplant delivers 550 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque, propelling the GranTurismo Trofeo from 0 to 60 mph in a brisk 3.5 seconds. It also includes an all-wheel drive powertain, which makes it a perfect daily driver.

A convertible variant called the GranCabrio is also available, as well as full electric versions of both the coupe and convertible.

Why We Picked It:

The 2025 Revuelto is intentionally designed to blur the lines between supercar and hypercar, as it does have the functionality and usability of a supercar, but has power, acceleration, and a price that is near a hypercar. The car is a total rethink of the V12 flagship of the Raging Bull brand.

Take, for example, that the car is the debut of Lamborghini's new "mono-fuselage," which takes the carbon-fiber monocoque concept and extends it all the way to the front end with carbon composites fused to the monocoque. This adds significant torsional rigidity and allows for a much more streamlined front end, as there is no need to bolt a front structure to the cabin.

The 6.5L Lamborghini V12 also has been updated, now reaching a screaming 9,300 RPM redline and producing a hefty 814 HP all on its own. That is then combined with three electric motors, one for each front wheel and one in the 8 speed dual-clutch transaxle, which add another 147 HP overall. This gives the car 1,001 HP, with the batteries for the motors being charged either through regenerative braking with the motor in the transaxle, or via plugging in to charge.

Why We Picked It:

The 2025 Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray breaks new ground as the first-ever electrified Corvette, seamlessly blending the iconic sports car's performance heritage with cutting-edge hybrid technology. It retains the Stingray's 6.2-liter LT2 V8 engine, sending 495 horsepower to the rear wheels, but adds an electric motor to the front axle, generating an additional 160 horsepower and 125 lb-ft of torque. This innovative all-wheel drive system results in a combined output of 655 horsepower, launching the E-Ray from 0 to 60 mph in a blistering 2.5 seconds.  

Beyond its impressive acceleration, the E-Ray offers a unique driving experience. The electric motor provides instant torque to the front wheels, enhancing traction and agility, especially in challenging conditions. Drivers can even engage "Stealth Mode," allowing for short distances of near-silent, electric-only driving at speeds up to 45 mph. This adds a surprising layer of versatility to the Corvette, making it suitable for early morning drives or navigating quiet neighborhoods without disturbing the peace.  

The E-Ray's design subtly distinguishes it from the Stingray, with wider fenders to accommodate the all-wheel drive system and unique aerodynamic elements.

Inside, the cabin features the familiar driver-focused layout with a 12-inch digital instrument cluster and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system. With its combination of electrifying performance, all-weather capability, and surprising efficiency, the 2025 Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray ushers in a new era for this legendary American sports car.  

Why We Picked It:

The BMW M8 Competition sits at the pinnacle of the 8 Series lineup, a high-performance grand tourer that seamlessly blends luxury, technology, and exhilarating performance. Available as a coupe, convertible, or Gran Coupe (four-door), the M8 Competition commands attention with its aggressive styling, muscular stance, and unmistakable presence. Under the hood lies a handcrafted 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine, generating a monstrous 617 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque. 1 This potent powerplant, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and BMW's xDrive all-wheel-drive system, allows the M8 Competition to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in a blistering 3.0 seconds (coupe).

But the M8 Competition is more than just a straight-line missile. It's been meticulously engineered to deliver a thrilling and engaging driving experience. The adaptive M suspension, active M differential, and M-specific steering work in harmony to provide exceptional handling and agility, making it a joy to carve through corners. Drivers can tailor the driving experience to their preferences with various driving modes, ranging from comfortable cruising to track-focused settings that unleash the full potential of the M8 Competition.

Inside the cabin, the M8 Competition offers a luxurious and technologically advanced environment. Premium materials, such as Merino leather and carbon fiber trim, create a sophisticated ambiance. The M Sport seats provide exceptional support while the iDrive infotainment system, with its intuitive interface and large touchscreen display, is easy.

Why We Picked It:

While the Porsche 911 is often associated with rear-wheel-drive thrills, the all-wheel-drive versions offer a unique blend of performance and all-weather capability that expands the 911's versatility without compromising its sports car DNA. These models, denoted by the "4" in their names (e.g., Carrera 4, Targa 4), utilize Porsche's sophisticated all-wheel-drive system to distribute power seamlessly between the front and rear axles, enhancing traction and stability in a variety of conditions.

Beyond the added grip, the all-wheel-drive 911 models retain the sharp handling and exhilarating performance that the 911 is renowned for. The Carrera 4 and Carrera 4S, for example, offer the same potent flat-six engines as their rear-wheel-drive counterparts. The Targa 4 and Targa 4S add open-top driving enjoyment to the equation, with their distinctive Targa roof design that combines the best of coupe and convertible styles. And for those seeking even more focused performance, the Carrera 4 GTS and Targa 4 GTS offer enhanced power, sharper handling, and unique styling cues, and now include a hybrid powertrain to boot.  

Whether you're seeking a thrilling daily driver that can handle all weather conditions or a weekend warrior that can conquer winding roads with confidence, the all-wheel-drive Porsche 911 models offer a compelling blend of performance, practicality, and unmistakable style. They represent a unique facet of the 911's versatility, proving that all-wheel drive can enhance the driving experience without compromising the sports car essence that has defined the 911 for generations.

Why We Picked It:

The Mercedes-AMG GT Coupe is back for 2025, and it's bringing a symphony of performance and style to the luxury sports car segment. This sleek and powerful machine, a direct descendant of the SLS AMG, embodies the pinnacle of AMG engineering and design, offering a thrilling driving experience for every enthusiast. The GT Coupe lineup caters to a variety of tastes and preferences.

The entry-level GT 43 features a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with a mild-hybrid system, delivering a respectable 375 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. For those seeking more power, the GT 55 boasts a handcrafted AMG 4.0-liter V8 biturbo engine, generating 469 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. And for the ultimate in performance, the GT 63 unleashes the full fury of the AMG 4.0-liter V8 biturbo, producing a monstrous 577 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque.  

But the GT Coupe's performance story doesn't end there. The range-topping GT 63 S E PERFORMANCE introduces a groundbreaking plug-in hybrid powertrain that combines the handcrafted AMG V8 with a powerful electric motor. This technological marvel delivers a combined output of 831 horsepower and a mind-boggling 1,033 lb-ft of torque, making it one of the most powerful production cars in the world. With a 0-60 mph time of just 2.9 seconds, the GT 63 S E PERFORMANCE redefines what's possible in a hybrid sports car.  

Inside the cabin, the GT Coupe offers a luxurious and driver-focused environment. The AMG Performance seats provide exceptional support during spirited driving, while the digital instrument cluster and central touchscreen display provide access to a wealth of information and entertainment options. The available AMG Track Pace data logger allows drivers to analyze their performance on the track, further enhancing the driving experience.

Why We Picked It:

The 2025 BMW M5 ushers in a new era for the high-performance sedan, marking a significant departure from its predecessors with a powerful plug-in hybrid powertrain. This sophisticated system combines a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 engine with an electric motor, generating a combined output of 750 horsepower and 737 lb-ft of torque. This electrifying power allows the M5 to catapult from 0 to 60 mph in an estimated 2.9 seconds, making it one of the quickest sedans on the planet.

Beyond its neck-snapping acceleration, the M5 offers a dynamic driving experience thanks to its advanced chassis technology. Adaptive M suspension, rear-wheel steering, and an active M differential work in harmony to provide exceptional handling and agility. The xDrive all-wheel-drive system ensures maximum grip and control, while powerful M Compound brakes provide confident stopping power. For the first time, the M5 will also be available in a wagon body style, dubbed the M5 Touring, offering increased practicality without sacrificing performance.  

Inside the cabin, the M5 blends luxury and sportiness with the latest BMW technology. The curved display dominates the dashboard, integrating a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch infotainment touchscreen.

M Sport seats provide excellent support during spirited driving, while premium materials and refined finishes create an atmosphere of sophistication. With its combination of groundbreaking performance, cutting-edge technology, and luxurious appointments, the 2025 BMW M5 redefines what a high-performance sedan can be.

Why We Picked It:

The Volkswagen Golf R is the ultimate expression of the hot hatch, a performance machine disguised in the practical and familiar package of a compact hatchback. Under the hood lurks a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that punches well above its weight, delivering a potent 315 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque to all four wheels through Volkswagen's 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system. This potent combination allows the Golf R to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 4.7 seconds, making it one of the quickest cars in its class.  

But the Golf R's appeal extends far beyond its straight-line speed. Its sophisticated all-wheel-drive system, combined with a sport-tuned suspension and responsive steering, provides exceptional grip and agility, transforming this unassuming hatchback into a corner-carving machine. Drivers can further tailor the driving experience with various driving modes, including a "Drift Mode" that allows for some playful sideways action. This unexpected feature adds a layer of fun and excitement to the Golf R, showcasing its versatility and performance potential.  

Enthusiasts and journalists alike rave about the Golf R's blend of performance, practicality, and everyday usability. Many praise its refined driving dynamics, comfortable ride, and surprisingly spacious interior. Car and Driver calls it "a riot to drive," highlighting its "impressive grip" and "playful handling." Top Gear describes it as "a wolf in sheep's clothing," emphasizing its "unassuming appearance" and "explosive performance." The Golf R's ability to seamlessly transition from a comfortable daily driver to a thrilling performance machine makes it a compelling choice for those seeking a versatile and engaging hot hatch.