Season Recap: Car We Want in Our Driveway

Now that we’ve tackled the best economy cars, hybrids, SUVs and concept cars, it’s time to decide which car we want in our own driveways. This post is kind of like asking us what we’d do if we won the lottery, but considering we’re a fickle bunch when it comes to cars, there’s a bit more to consider than pure fantasy.

Kelsey Mays: 2009 Cadillac CTS-V
Energy independence notwithstanding, I’d gladly shell out $4 a gallon for a CTS-V. The regular CTS is one of Lutz & Co.’s finest achievements yet, and the thought of 550 hp underfoot is stupefying enough to make me crave one. Reality bites, but this Caddy bites back: It still has a full backseat, commute-friendly amenities and a trunk that can fit a weekend’s baggage. Naturally, if I had one, most of my weekends would be spent at the track.

Mike Hanley: 2009 Cadillac CTS-V
I’m a fan of sport sedans, and the new Cadillac CTS-V looks ready to join the list of heavy-hitters in that segment with its 550-hp, supercharged 6.2-liter V-8. Equally significant in this slice of the market is a luxurious cabin, and here the CTS-V gets the benefit of the much-improved CTS’ cabin. You might find yourself visiting the gas pump frequently with this car, but that comes with the territory. And, hey, it does have room for four adults; maybe that’s enough to convince your significant other of its practicality. It’s worth a try.

Joe Wiesenfelder: 2009 Cadillac CTS-V
I don’t know how much ogle I have left in me, but I ogled the hell out of the Dodge Challenger SRT8. The thought of a black one in my driveway is irresistible, but sitting inside one doesn’t come close to the view from inside the Cadillac CTS. The redesigned CTS was screwed out of some awards last year on account of the redesigned Chevy Malibu’s dramatic improvement — over a crappier predecessor. All aspects considered, the CTS is the best thing out of Detroit in ages; I like it for what it is and what it represents. Sorry, Challenger. I have to go with the extra doors and luxury. What’s that? It comes in a V-Series version with more horsepower, too? Yes, I’ll take that one.

David Thomas: 2009 Audi A4 Avant
It would be too easy to list the Maserati Gran Turismo as the car I’d most want in my driveway, so I tried to dial my pick down to some form of reality. I really don’t crave big muscle cars as a car owner. In fact, I’m kind of a station wagon freak fan. The new Audi A4 Avant is one of the most stylish wagons I’ve seen, and it won me over immediately. I’d prefer if Audi offered its 3.2-liter V-6 in the U.S., or if it brought a high-performance S variant, but I’ll still take it as-is.