Best in class: Fun-to-drive cars

These vehicles are entertaining to drive and are among Consumer Reports' top recommended models in their categories

Consumer Reports has the most comprehensive, consumer-oriented autos-test program in the U.S. We anonymously buy our test cars from dealerships and conduct more than 50 evaluations on each vehicle, focusing on performance, safety, comfort, convenience, interior quality, fuel economy, cargo capacity, and more.

Below, we've listed several fun-to-drive cars that are the top recommended vehicles in their categories. Not only did each of these vehicles earn a high overall score in their class, but they also meet our stringent requirements to be recommended.

	SPORTY CARS Mazdaspeed3 The Mazdaspeed3 is based on the already fun-to-drive and practical Mazda3, but has a stronger powertrain and a sport-oriented suspension. The turbocharged, 263-hp, 2.3-liter, four-cylinder engine delivers smooth and very strong performance with minimal torque steer. Expect 24 mpg in mixed driving. This efficiency is good considering the high level of performance, but the Mazdaspeed3 requires premium fuel. It proved to be extremely quick and fun to drive with agile, secure handling. And yet, it has a usable rear seat, decent ride and interior noise, hatchback versatility and room for luggage. More sporty cars
	ROADSTERS Mazda MX-5 Miata The Miata won drivers over with its balanced handling, quick and precise steering, and crisp-shifting six-speed manual transmission--all available at a reasonable price. The manual top can be lowered and raised with one hand from the driver's seat, making open motoring a snap. A power folding hard top is optional. More sporty cars
	PERFORMANCE LUXURY SPORTS CARS Porsche 911 The 911 is fun to drive, with excellent agility and quick acceleration, yet it's easy to live with. Handling is extremely precise and agile, and the ride is relatively supple. Braking is phenomenal. Our tested Carrera S's rear-mounted 3.8-liter, six-cylinder engine yields strong thrust when revved and sounds terrific, but it hums busily on the highway. An upright seating position and large windows provide good visibility. The rear seat is suitable only for children. Radio controls are complicated. The front trunk can hold a medium suitcase. More sporty cars
	UPSCALE SEDAN BMW 3 Series The 3 Series blends sportiness and luxury. It is fun to drive, with taut and agile handling and smooth, sporty and fuel efficient powertrains. The 335i uses a 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine, with 300 hp, the 328i a slightly less powerful version of this engine at 230-hp. All-wheel drive is optional. The ride is compliant even with the run-flat tires. But several controls are awkward to use even without the optional navigation system and complicated iDrive multifunction control system. More sedans
	MINIVANS Honda Odyssey The Honda Odyssey is a well-rounded vehicle. Handling is agile and secure, and the Odyssey was among the faster models through our avoidance maneuver. Electronic stability control is standard. The 244-hp, 3.5-liter V6 is smooth and strong, helping the Odyssey be a tad quicker in passing than some other minivans, such as the Toyota Sienna, while returning a fuel economy rating of 19 mpg overall. Interior flexibility and fit and finish are impressive. Road noise is more pronounced than in some competing models. More minivans