7 Unexpectedly Delightful Cars and Trucks Reviewed by Experts

Car enthusiasts test drive a wide range of vehicles, evaluating them not just for entertainment but for their intended purpose. When a vehicle excels at its job and adds a touch of enjoyment, it earns our respect. Over the years, we’ve driven countless cars—both vintage and modern—and some continue to pleasantly surprise us. Here are seven vehicles that exceeded expectations for one reason or another.

Cadillac Vistiq

The idea of a 6,300-pound all-electric SUV didn’t initially spark excitement for me, but I was wrong. The Cadillac Vistiq delivered serenity instead. On a highway trip from San Francisco to Monterey, California, with a stop in San Jose, I engaged Super Cruise and let the vehicle handle most of the driving, including lane changes. Normally, I prefer to drive myself, but after a long flight, the ability to relax, listen to music, and enjoy the massage seats was a welcome relief.

Cadillac markets the Vistiq as a “baby Escalade,” and the comparison holds true: it’s large, comfortable, and stylish. The interior avoids excessive material variety or flashy design while offering abundant space. While I wouldn’t look forward to driving it daily, the Vistiq provides a modern take on the warm, comforting feeling once associated with classic luxury sedans like Jaguars. As the saying goes, people rarely regret spending extra for peace and quiet.

— Eric Weiner

Škoda 130 Rapid Coupe

In the early 1990s, Škoda was still viewed as a joke in the UK, so I wasn’t eager to drive the 130 Rapid Coupe. Its exterior was unassuming, and the cabin’s hard plastics and thin seats didn’t inspire confidence. The 1.3-liter engine also seemed underwhelming. However, with the engine mounted in the rear like a Porsche 911, the 130 Rapid Coupe became a surprisingly fun drive. The lightweight steering and the rear-mounted motor’s weight distribution made it genuinely enjoyable.

— Nik Berg

Toyota Camry (Sam Smith)

A few years ago, my wife and I traveled to the Pacific Northwest for a friend’s wedding. Over the course of a week, we covered several hundred miles, starting in Portland and heading up the Columbia River Gorge to The Dalles. The Toyota Camry handled the long-distance drive effortlessly, proving that reliability and comfort can coexist. The smooth ride and quiet cabin made it an ideal companion for our trip.

Additional Surprising Vehicles

While the Cadillac Vistiq, Škoda 130 Rapid Coupe, and Toyota Camry stood out, other vehicles also pleasantly surprised us. These included:

• Ford F-150 Lightning: The all-electric pickup delivered impressive towing capacity and smooth acceleration, redefining expectations for electric trucks.
• Mazda MX-5 Miata: The lightweight roadster remained a benchmark for driving enjoyment, proving that simplicity and fun don’t require excess power.
• Subaru Outback: The rugged wagon combined practicality with off-road capability, surprising skeptics with its versatility.
• Jeep Wrangler: The iconic off-roader lived up to its reputation, offering unmatched capability in challenging terrain.
• Tesla Model 3: The sedan’s blend of performance, technology, and efficiency made it a standout in its class.