Top 10 best performance coupes 2022

These sleek-looking coupés are available in a wide number of sizzling varieties, each of which features its own unique set of fascinating traits that distinguish it from the others in terms of ownership, driving, and general lifestyle compatibility. On this list, you’ll find some of the most apparent names to look for, but the most important question is this: who will reign supreme in our top 10 among Mercedes-AMG, BMW M, Audi Sport, and perhaps one or two additional names

1. Mercedes-AMG C63 S Coupe
2. BMW M2 Competition
3. BMW M4 Competition
4. Alpina B4 S
5. BMW 4 Series M440i
6. Lexus RC F
7. Ford Mustang
8. Mercedes-AMG E53 Coupe
9. Audi RS5 Coupe
10. Mercedes-AMG C43 Coupe

Mercedes-AMG C63 S Coupe

It is impossible not to fall adoringly under the spell of the Mercedes-AMG C63 S Coupé, which is gifted with so much power, sinewy good looks, and handling attitude. It is difficult not to fall adoringly under the spell of the Mercedes-AMG C63 S Coupé. It is even more challenging when you take into consideration the fact that this model of the AMG C-Class will be the final one to feature a V8 engine; the model that comes after it will have hybrid power derived from four cylinders.

The C63’s twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 might not have the same overall appeal as the normally aspirated 6.2-litre V8 that its predecessor had, but the way that the 503-horsepower engine makes you cycle through adjectives as your toe approaches the bulkhead is something altogether else.

The new BMW M4 is more accurate and rounded than the Audi RS5, but neither can match the overall appeal of Mercedes-refining Benz’s of the classic big-bonnet, big-hitting coupe design. This is because Mercedes-refining Benz’s are known for their powerful engines and large front hoods.

BMW M2 Competition

In the exceptional lineup offered by BMW’s M division, the regular M2 has been replaced by the M2 Competition. Do not, however, let the fact that it is a junior model lead you to believe that it is an exact replica of the M3 and M4 versions, which are bigger and provide greater speeds.

In point of fact, this is the best driver’s car that BMW currently produces (something we never thought we’d be able to say about its non-Competition predecessor), and despite the fact that it exudes an air of relative inferiority, it would fare well in comparison to the other vehicles in this group.

The idea behind the M2 Competition revolves mostly around the car’s powerplant. A detuned version of the M3’s twin-turbocharged straight six engine from the G80 generation was installed in the vehicle that had housed a six-cylinder engine with a single turbocharger. That is not a move that should be approached flippantly at all. As a result of modifications made to the chassis and suspension, the M2 Competition is now a machine that is more incisive, more focused, and more agile than it was in the past.

This is a vehicle that is exceptionally well-balanced and composed, the kind of vehicle that tackles the task of getting torn apart on track with the same level of fervor as hurtling down a pothole-filled back road. Dedicated drivers won’t be let down, so let’s keep our fingers crossed that the M2’s replacement won’t let us down either.

BMW M4 Competition

Early models of the M4 from the generation before this one had a rear axle that seemed sloppy and unpredictable, which, when combined with a lack of traction, made the cars feel spiky and occasionally made driving them nerve-wracking. In spite of the fact that the late Competition model could not quite reach the spec-sheet heights of GTS or CS-badged specials, it is a more tranquil and predictable vehicle to drive at the limit of grip than the M4 was in the past. It is also one of the quickest BMWs that has ever been produced and a terrific sports coupe when compared to its rivals in its segment.

We now have a completely redesigned M4. It has a lot more power and is a lot heavier than the previous F82 model, and it also has a lot more of an imposing appearance, at least from the front.

Despite this, the M4 continues to be a desirable alternative. It possesses a remarkable and palpable handling poise, exquisite accuracy, and outstanding controllability, as well as the distinctive M division positivity of feel going through its axles, driveline, and engine, and back to the controls. Additionally, it has superb controllability.

Because of this, the driving experience is luxurious, but it is also more practical than ever before. Furthermore, the configurability of its driving experience can be negotiated via the steering wheel-mounted driving mode shortcut toggles in a way that is truly unprecedented in a modern performance car driving experience; complexity is brought to an emphatic halt.

The mix of its versatility and involvement sets it apart from other options, despite the fact that it may lack some rawness.

Alpina B4 S

Although this automobile is no longer for sale, in light of the fact that the following generation of the Alpina B4 will only be available in the form of a four-door Gran Coupe, we believe it is prudent to continue including the excellent two-door coupe from the previous generation on this list for the foreseeable future.

The B4 S coupé, which came out in 2017 and took the place of the F82 Alpina B4, was a serious high-performance vehicle, whereas the F82 Alpina B4 always had the sensation of being extremely speedy. It was not the higher power (which grew by 30 horsepower to 434 horsepower), but the improved torque (which increased by more than 10 percent to 486 pounds-feet) that placed it ahead of its predecessor in terms of performance in the real world.

It is a softer car than the previous M4 (and, by implication, the current one), which comes at the expense of body control through fast corners and during undulations; yet, it does not seem restless in the same way that a F82 M4 could. In spite of the fact that it would not go nearly as quick around a track, we have no doubt that the drivers’ grins would be wider.

The B4 S’s most appealing features are its personality and its easygoing practicability. It is a really beautiful and sophisticated automobile. There is nothing else in this class that can match to it, and because the future B4 will only be available as a Gran Coupe, this class will suffer as a result.

BMW 4 Series M440i

It’s true that we have another BMW product at the very top of our list, but this time it’s one that’s brand spanking new despite the controversy surrounding it.

With its substantial curb weight and new torque-converter transmission to replace the previous DCT, the M440i is the top-dog in the series of sub-M 4 Series vehicles, and boy, does it deserve that status, at least from behind the wheel.

This is a car that begs to be driven on a daily basis, in contrast to the hard-edged M4, and yet its chassis can reward the driver in ways that very few others can if you chance to be driving on the right road at the right moment.

The turbocharged straight-six engine that is included in the M440i develops 369 horsepower, which is more than enough to show the car’s playful side. However, this is accomplished with maintaining a very stable and secure overall handling stance.

Even more impressive is the fact that the M440i features outstanding GT characteristics such as a large wheelbase, refined interior, and luxurious exterior.

Lexus RC F

The Lexus RC F is a big step forward for a young performance brand, and it gives this market category with the diversity that has been sorely lacking until now. It was produced with a significant investment of time, energy, and resources. It is brand new, daring, and distinctive, as well as pleasantly unreserved and dedicated to its objective, which is to be a car that is simple to love.

On the other hand, the RC F is more challenging to justify. The vehicle’s V8 powerplant, as great as it is, can also be underwhelming and even maddening at times, especially when combined with a finicky automatic gearbox that has far too many gear ratios. This is especially true when the car is driven in Sport mode. In addition, the chassis specification offers dynamic claims, but the handling does not meet those expectations.

However, it falls short in terms of both real-world speed and well-rounded cruising manners, while possessing a great deal of charisma and even more V8 noise.

Ford Mustang

Considering the price range, wouldn’t it make more sense to invest in a BMW 2 Series Coupé or an Audi TT instead? And if you did, it would be a terrible waste of time and effort.

There are, without a doubt, significant drawbacks to owning this automobile in the United Kingdom. Yes, you should give some serious thought to where you’ll park it around town, especially in light of the fact that you’ll be stopping by the gas station a lot more frequently than the rest of your friends and acquaintances. However, no other automobile at this price point – or probably several price points above – can equal the Ford Mustang’s performance.

Its engine has a special charm other motors with fewer cylinders lack, and its natural chassis balance is faultless. For less than £50,000, you can obtain a car with actual V8 power and combustive character, as well as significantly enhanced road-holding and bursting with visual presence, if you pick the Mach-1 version. Sensible be damned.

Mercedes-AMG E53 Coupe

The flagship E-Class Coupé, which was recently facelifted, is driven by a 429bhp, 384lb ft turbocharged straight six in the front, which is assisted by a 21bhp, 184lb ft starter/alternator motor. As a result, the E 53 Coupé boasts a comparably rapid and beautifully smooth acceleration. This is a rich, melodious motor, though not quite as raucous as the full-fat AMG V8, but it’s rounded out with a hearty dosage of socially aware hybrid-electric intrigue.

Its ride is a tad rough, but it still makes for a convincing long-distance cruiser, and it handles with enough confidence to delight an inquisitive driver. It’s also a nice place to spend time, although one lacking in AMG-related mementos.

Audi RS5 Coupe

Previously, the best incentive for acquiring an old Audi RS5 was to get access to the Audi 4.2-liter V8’s ultimate resting place; this argument is no longer applicable. The driving experience is no longer dominated by the twin-turbo V6 that replaces it.

Any greater appreciation for the new RS5 is predicated on a like for the model’s marginally shifted location. When you get into the enormous GT mindset, the car’s acknowledged gifts for interior richness, mechanical prowess, and sharp-edged appearance start to make sense.

When seen from this perspective, which has absolutely nothing to do with its rivals’ hard-charging handling flair and dynamic enthusiasm, the RS5 seems both limited and arguably more intriguing than it has ever been.

Mercedes-AMG C43 Coupe

Although some may regard the C43 to be an AMG light, Affalterbach hasn’t merely boosted the power of its twin-turbo 3.0-litre V6 and said, “That’ll do.” Because the chassis has been modified, it now works in unison with the engine to provide a quick, sure-footed, and great all-around sports coupé.

If you can afford it, grab the full-fat Mercedes-AMG C63, which is an incredible blast. If you don’t care about all that V8 blood and thunder, the C43 Coupé is a pleasant, all-weather, cross-country beast for £15,500 less than the C63. And any doubts that 367bhp is insufficient are baseless. It passes by swiftly enough.