Let's face it: In today's car market, the Japanese and the Germans are pretty hard acts to follow. But that doesn't mean we don't come up with some stellar cars here in the States. Here are my five favorite American-branded cars, presented in alphabetical order.
1. Cadillac CTS-V
Photo © Aaron Gold
I will never run out of good things to say about the CTS-V -- it's like a BMW M3 with a couple of tattoos and a sense of humor. Stupid-fast power, alley-cat agility, and it's amazingly cheap for all you get. This is why people immigrate to America.
Read more: Cadillac CTS-V test drive
2. Chevrolet Corvette
Photo © Aaron Gold
The Corvette ZR-1 is probably the single most amazing American car made, but I wouldn't turn down a ride in any Corvette, even the cheapest one. They're all loud, fast and fun, and that's what makes America great.
Read more:
Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 test drive
Chevrolet Corvette LS3 test drive
3. Chevrolet Malibu
Photo © Aaron Gold
Roomy, refined family sedans are supposed to be what the Japanese automakers do best, but the Malibu beats 'em at their own game with its well-appointed cabin and quiet four-cylinder powertrain. I'd take one over a Camry any day.
Read more: Chevrolet Malibu test drive
4. Dodge Challenger
Photo © Aaron Gold
I have a thing for old Chryslers, so I'm a sucker for the Challenger's true-to-the-original lines. The visibility is lousy and the interior is crap, but with a big V8 (376 hp or 426 hp, you can't go wrong with either) and a six-speed stick, I can get over that. Best yet: Even the cheap one looks good.
Read more:
Dodge Challenger SRT8 test drive
Dodge Challenger R/T test drive
Dodge Challenger SE test drive
5. Lincoln MKZ
Photo © Ford
This has to be the biggest surprise of the 2010 model year: A Lincoln that does the job as well as a Lexus. It's just as elegant, just as roomy, just as quiet, and -- believe it nor not -- just as well built. Why can't all American cars be this good?
Read more: 2010 Lincoln MKZ test drive
