There are many different types of fans enjoying their own segment of the automotive world—and their own section of their local Kia dealer, for instance. There are the fans who want to know every detail about the car’s innards, able to fix or at least patch anything temporarily.
Other fans like to experience a car’s power, pushing it to the limits to see what’s possible. These fans enjoy seeing a car on the racetrack or off-roading. Then there are the fans, like me, who simply want to find a vehicle that’s fun to drive, comes with plenty of features, and can handle a short road trip without too much trouble. If you’re interested in the top vehicles for such a lifestyle, then sit back and scroll through my exploration of fun, fast, and feature-loaded vehicles in their lineup.
#5: The Lexus ES – Hybrid Luxury
While 2019 may not seem like a long time ago, it has been long enough that the Lexus ES is now being sold on used car lots. Getting a newer used car means features are still pretty much up to date, warranties might still be in effect, and you can probably get a good deal on a trade-in.
The Lexus ES has only been around since 2019, which means it has plenty of fun features and technology to make even the most boring ride a delight. Plenty of features considered “luxury” come standard in the ES—a sunroof, a 10-speaker sound system, onboard WiFi, and the voice AI of your choice: Siri, Alexa, or Apple CarPlay.
With a roomy interior, quiet cabin, and the option of a hybrid system, the Lexus ES is fun, fashionable, and economic, meaning any trip you take will be the ultimate driving experience. There’s no need to worry that you’re overspending or overextending yourself. It’s almost like the ES is a vacation in and of itself.
#4: Kia Sorento – A Practical Pleasure
While the Sorento might seem like a family vehicle, don’t let its build fool you; beneath the practical exterior lies a lean, mean driving machine that’s ready to rock your world. The 2021 Kia Sorento, available at many Certified Pre-Owned Kia lots, is a reimagined version of the older, more family-friendly styled model. Now, of course, the Sorento boasts an exterior makeover, a hybrid option, and the ability to tow 3,500 lbs.
The 2021 Kia Sorento also offers plenty of fun features, depending on which trim level you go with. The Sorento EX, for example, has heated front seats, sophisticated black exterior accents, and remote start—which means your flashy, fun drive can also maintain its practical aspects. There aren’t many other vehicles capable of such harmony.
The Sorento’s new look, pleasant ride quality, and updated tech provide the driver with a mixture of calm strength, admiration from passers-by, and plenty of opportunities to take it for a spin—just for the fun of it. Whether you’re on a solo trip to the gardens or a family trip to the beach, you’ll enjoy Kia’s family-friendly yet incredibly fun SUV.
#3: The Genesis G80 – New Kid on the Block
After less than a decade, Genesis has made waves as the new up-and-coming car brand from Hyundai, garnering a multitude of awards from J.D. Power for Genesis vehicles’ performance, dependability, and quality. Even though they’re new to the scene, Genesis has consistently delivered cars that are high-value and more affordable than competing brands.
The 2019 Genesis G80, for example, comes with a multitude of standard features: an 8” infotainment screen, connection to either Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, and incredibly plush seating that will make even the longest day trip comfortable. While there are other trim levels available, the G80 doesn’t need any additions to make it one of the most fun and cozy cars to drive.
With a spacious, luxurious interior, a relaxed driving system, and the looks of a sports car, the G80 can help you fulfill your fantasy of being fast, furious, and most of all, fantastically fun. Genesis promises to become even more competitive with older name brands in the coming decade, so be prepared to see this company’s vehicle sales boom before too long.
#2: The BMW X5 – Classic, Controlled, Confident
If you’re a bit of an older driver, you may not be interested in some of the newer brands. BMW has long been known as a luxurious brand and has remained at the top of the list for many drivers for years. It’s no wonder, as the BMW X5 can attest to, because of its sleek look, roomy interior, and controlled yet exciting driving experience.
The X5 is what BMW calls a “Sports Activity Vehicle”, meaning that while it is more practical than a car due to its SUV size and features, it drives more like a sports sedan. That means it’s capable of wielding plenty of power while also allowing more passengers and luggage aboard for a vacation, day trip, or Sunday drive through the country.
One of the best features for those traveling long distances is the multitude of charging options for every passenger’s phone or tablet, meaning everyone can entertain themselves with a set of headphones and an electronic device, leaving the cabin quiet and fuss-free. There are also incredibly luxurious standard features like the panoramic sunroof, rain-sensing windshield wipers, and ambient lighting that can be adjusted to suit everyone in the cabin. Standing out never felt so good.
#1: The Audi A5 Sportback – Small SUV Space, Fantastically Fun Features
It will probably come as no surprise that the Audi is at the top of the list. While many of us can only afford to dream and drool over such a magnificent beast, there are some available on used car lots now that have dipped down toward a more affordable price range. The A5 Sportback has made it to the pre-owned pages, and now you can take a test drive to see what all the fuss is about.
Though the A5 Sportback appeared in 2018, it is still one of the most luxurious, fun, and feature-friendly vehicles on the market today. Standard features include leather upholstery, a three-zone climate control system, a panoramic sunroof, and a system that can be paired with either Android Auto or Apple CarPlay.
Of course, trim levels only increase in luxury, so if you’re lucky, you’ll be able to snag a used one that comes with some premium features, like sports seating, memory settings for the driver’s seat, a 12.3” Virtual Cockpit digital gauge display, and an optional 19-speaker sound system from Bang & Olufsen. Whatever trim level you’re looking at, the A5 Sportback is packed with plenty of fun features, is a thrill to drive, and is sure to enhance your adventure experiences. Sure, this is a pricier option, but if you’re looking for a cheaper alternative to Audi, I’d recommend Kia vehicles like the highly affordable Sorento.
These pre-owned vehicles may have hit the road a time or two, but they’re still raring to go with plenty of verve and vigor. You can enjoy any number of activities with one of these by your side, and know that wherever you go, you’re the envy of all those around you. Buckle up, have fun, and appreciate driving these flexible and fun vehicles.
Do you agree with the above choices? Have I left a vehicle out? Tell me about it in the comments section below.
