TOP 1 - BMW M6 coupe



The M6 is a high-tech wonder. BMW shows off its racing heritage with the high-revving V-10, a sequential-manual gearbox, and a carbon-fiber roof. It's an incredibly fast coupe, but the sequential gearbox is dim-witted and the car is not as satisfying to drive as a Porsche 911.

TOP 2 - BMW M3 coupe



BMW's iconic coupe returns for 2008 and, for the first time, comes with a V-8. The 414-horsepower, 4.0-liter engine revs to an astonishing 8400 rpm. A six-speed manual is the only gearbox for now. The performance is matched only by the driving thrills, and it seats four with luggage.

TOP 3 - BMW Z4 roadster



If you can stomach the robot shark styling, the Z4 actually proves to be a compelling and satisfying sports car. Silky smooth and powerful six-cylinder engines, strong brakes, and impressive handling are let down by a harsh ride and a cramped interior.

TOP 4 - BMW 1-series coupe



The 1-series coupe is essentially a shortened version of the 3-series coupe and sedan, perennial Car and Driver 10Best winners. The upshot: less space than a 3-series coupe, but equally good road manners at a lower price. The 135i is lightning fast, especially for the money.

TOP 5 - BMW 3-series sports



Wagons are big in Europe, but they aren't hot sellers in the U.S.; BMW brings over its 3-series wagon anyway. The same dynamic goodness that makes the 3-series sedan the envy of most automakers, but with a more practical cargo area. All-wheel drive ensures all-season acceleration.

TOP 6 - BMW 5-series



The previous-generation 5-series was a clear class leader, but the current model faces stiff competition from Japanese and German rivals. The styling is somewhat controversial and there are better values out there, but it is a fine car to drive, especially in twin-turbo 535i trim.

TOP 7 - BMW 6-series



The 6-series enters 2008 with minor styling changes that make it appear more like the powerful M6. More of a luxurious cruiser than a sports coupe, the 650i does offer a great engine note, a comfortable and quiet interior, quick acceleration, and exclusivity.

TOP 8 - BMW 7-series



If you can look past its unique styling, the 7-series is one of the most comfortable and best handling large luxury sedans. Inside, there are annoyances like iDrive and obstinant seat controls, but the cabin is beautifully put together. A replacement is due in 2009.

TOP 9 - BMW X3



Freshened for 2007 with new styling, a better interior, a 6-speed automatic, and more power, the X3 remains a sharp driver among small SUVs. It's tight inside but offers all-weather capability and BMW handling, and rides better than earlier models.

TOP 10 - BMW X5



It doesn't look radically different from its predecessor, but the second-gen X5 is longer and wider than the previous iteration. There's also an optional fold??ing third-row seat which increases seating capacity to seven. The six-cylinder version will be enough for most; V-8 is a bit over the top.