Invisible Gems: The Extraordinary But Overlooked Cars You Need to Know About

In the bustling marketplace of automotive choices, some cars simply don’t get the attention they deserve. With a plethora of popular and overhyped models dominating the scene, these gems often remain hidden from the general car-buying public. Let’s start our journey by uncovering ten of the most underrated cars today. If you’re in the market for a new ride and love the idea of owning something off the beaten path, this list is for you.

1. **Mazda 6**: The Mazda 6 stands as a refined yet underrated contender in the sedan market. While its competitors from Honda and Toyota are household names, the Mazda 6 offers a unique blend of sporty performance and everyday practicality. With a 184 horsepower engine, it matches its rivals in power while delivering a commendable highway mileage of 35 miles per gallon. Its exceptional handling cements its position as a sport sedan camouflaged as a suburban vehicle.

2. **Chevy Cruze Hatchback**: Often overshadowed by its sedan counterpart, the Chevy Cruze Hatchback brings a touch of European flair to the table. Its elegant design and spacious cargo area make it a versatile choice for those with active lifestyles. With the rear seats folded, it boasts ample space for gear and equipment, making it an ideal choice for budget-conscious buyers who value practicality.

3. **Fiat 500 Abarth**: Don’t let its compact size fool you—the Fiat 500 Abarth is a powerhouse of fun. Known for its exhilarating exhaust note and spirited performance, the Abarth is perfect for city driving and weekend escapades. Its 160 horsepower engine might seem modest, but the joy it brings to the driving experience is anything but.

4. **Cadillac CTS-V**: Dispel any preconceived notions about Cadillacs being solely luxury-focused with the CTS-V, a true performance beast. This sedan rockets with 640 horsepower, making it a direct competitor to high-performance models from BMW and Mercedes. With a 6.2-liter V8 engine under the hood, the CTS-V is both a luxury cruiser and a thrill-inducing ride.

5. **Volkswagen CC**: Though the CC may not be as widely recognized as the Jetta or Passat, its elegance and German engineering make it a standout. The CC boasts a sophisticated design and ample room for four adults, offering a premium feel without the premium price tag. It’s a solid choice for those seeking a blend of style and practicality.

6. **Toyota 86 Coupe**: Often overlooked due to its understated power output, the Toyota 86 shines with its exceptional handling and sports car feel. Developed alongside Subaru, it offers a driving experience akin to more expensive sports cars, making it a delightful choice for enthusiasts on a budget.

7. **Mazda MX-5 Miata**: Revered by a niche group of fans, the Mazda MX-5 Miata remains a hidden treasure in the world of sports cars. Its lightweight design and nimble handling provide a driving experience that few other cars can match. Despite its playful appearance, the Miata is a serious contender on the road.

8. **BMW 3 Series Wagon**: Overshadowed by its SUV siblings, the BMW 3 Series Wagon offers a perfect blend of performance and utility. Its sports sedan-like handling and ample cargo space make it an ideal choice for those who value both driving pleasure and practicality. With options for all-wheel drive and a diesel engine, it’s a versatile vehicle for any adventure.

9. **Ford Flex**: With its unconventional design, the Ford Flex often leaves consumers puzzled about its identity. Yet, its spacious cabin and robust V6 engine make it an underappreciated option for families and adventurers alike. The Flex’s unique style and functionality deserve a second look.

10. **Porsche 718 Boxster**: Often lost in the shadow of its more popular relatives, the Porsche 718 Boxster is a masterclass in engineering and driving pleasure. Its convertible top and turbocharged engine offer a thrilling experience that resonates with Porsche’s storied heritage. Despite its underrated status, the Boxster remains a true gem for driving enthusiasts.

11. **Jeep Patriot**: The Jeep Patriot is a head-turner that somehow remains underappreciated in the world of compact SUVs. Despite its discontinuation in 2017, the Patriot’s rugged charm and retro appeal have left a lasting impression on its fans. Offering off-road capabilities that align perfectly with Jeep’s adventurous reputation, this compact crossover proves to be a practical choice for those seeking a vehicle that’s easy to maneuver around urban landscapes while still delivering on rugged terrain.

12. **Ford Escape**: The Ford Escape often flies under the radar in the crowded compact SUV market, dominated by the likes of Honda and Toyota. However, since 2017, the Escape has been equipped with a robust voice-command interface and seamless Apple/Android integration, making it a smart choice for tech-savvy drivers. With its confident handling, commendable fuel economy, and ample cargo space, the Escape quietly excels in areas that matter most to families and professionals alike.

13. **Buick Enclave**: While the Buick Enclave may not make waves in the large SUV category, it certainly deserves more attention. Its quiet cabin, three rows of spacious seating, and generous cargo area make it an excellent choice for family-oriented buyers. Add to the mix a smooth, balanced ride and an upscale interior, and the Enclave emerges as a well-rounded SUV that’s perfect for those who value comfort and practicality.

14. **Cadillac SRX**: The Cadillac SRX stands out as a luxury SUV that, despite being discontinued in 2016, remains a compelling option. With its bold styling and a host of luxury features, including 4G Wi-Fi capability, the SRX offers a distinctive blend of performance and comfort. For those who desire a step up into the luxury SUV realm, the SRX is a choice worth revisiting.

15. **Nissan Titan**: In the realm of full-sized pickups, the Nissan Titan often gets overshadowed by its American counterparts from Chevy, Ford, and Ram. Yet, its spacious cabin, 390-hp V8 engine, and aggressive styling make it a formidable option for truck enthusiasts. Whether you’re headed to the job site or a weekend getaway, the Titan offers the power and versatility needed for any adventure.

16. **Honda Ridgeline**: Unlike traditional trucks, the Honda Ridgeline is built on a car-like platform, promising a comfortable drive akin to a Honda Accord. Its roomy cabin and unique lockable in-bed trunk provide a secure cargo area that many trucks lack. The Ridgeline is ideal for light hauling and weekend trips, making it an appealing choice for those who desire both truck utility and sedan comfort.

17. **Chrysler Town & Country**: Although the Chrysler Town & Country is no longer in production, it remains a favorite among minivan enthusiasts. Known for its wealth of amenities, including leather seating and power sliding doors, the 2016 model is ideal for families needing a versatile vehicle that can easily convert from passenger transport to cargo carrier.

18. **Subaru BRZ**: While the Ford Mustang roars in the sports car category, the Subaru BRZ quietly purrs with elegance and agility. Its classic two-door, two-seat design, rear-wheel drive, and manual transmission cater to purists who appreciate a traditional sports car experience. The BRZ’s balanced handling and comfortable seating make it a joy to drive on winding roads.

The landscape of automotive excellence is vast and varied, with gems hidden in plain sight. This exploration of overlooked vehicles exemplifies the diversity in design, performance, and practicality that exists beyond the more mainstream choices. For those willing to venture off the beaten path, these cars offer unique experiences and enduring satisfaction. Whether you’re drawn to the rugged appeal of the Jeep Patriot or the luxurious comfort of the Buick Enclave, the underappreciated segment offers something for every discerning driver.

Related posts:
The 10 Most Underrated Cars On The Market Today
Best Used Cars You May Have Missed
Underappreciated: NASCAR Toyota Celica