Top 10 Grand Tourers 2020 — Best Overall + Best Value

1. Bentley Continental GT 2020

The 2020 Bentley Continental GT is the definitive grand tourer, blending a 6.0-liter twin-turbo W12 producing 626 horsepower and 664 lb-ft of torque with a 0-60 mph time of 3.6 seconds and a top speed of 207 mph. Its handcrafted interior features diamond-quilted leather, real wood veneers, and a rotating dashboard display. The adaptive air suspension and 48-volt active anti-roll system deliver a magic-carpet ride that few rivals can match.

This car is for the buyer who wants the absolute pinnacle of luxury and speed in one package, with no interest in compromise. It trades away some track-focused agility and fuel economy—expect around 15 mpg combined—but that is irrelevant to its mission. Compared to the Aston Martin DB11 below it, the Bentley offers a more opulent cabin and a stronger W12 engine, though the DB11 is lighter and more athletic. The Continental GT remains the benchmark for the class.

2. Aston Martin DB11 2020

The 2020 Aston Martin DB11 ranks second thanks to its stunning design and potent 5.2-liter twin-turbo V12, which delivers 630 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, launching it from 0-60 mph in just 3.5 seconds. Its aluminum-intensive structure keeps weight around 4,100 pounds, making it more agile than the Bentley. The DB11 also offers a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 option with 503 horsepower, providing a lighter and more balanced feel.

The DB11 is for drivers who prioritize style and a more engaging behind-the-wheel experience over absolute plushness. It sacrifices some rear-seat space and ride comfort compared to the Bentley Continental GT above, and its infotainment system is less intuitive. Against the BMW M850i below, the Aston offers more exclusivity and a sonorous V12, but the BMW is more practical and technologically advanced.

3. BMW M850i xDrive 2020

The 2020 BMW M850i xDrive ranks third for delivering near-supercar performance at a more accessible price of around $112,000. Its 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 produces 523 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque, propelling it from 0-60 mph in 3.6 seconds. The xDrive all-wheel-drive system and adaptive M suspension provide excellent grip and comfort.

This car is ideal for buyers who want a grand tourer that can also serve as a daily driver, thanks to its usable back seats and advanced tech. It trades away some of the exclusivity and handcrafted feel of the Aston Martin DB11 above, and its styling is less dramatic. Compared to the Mercedes-Benz S560 Coupe below, the BMW is sportier and less focused on rear-seat luxury. The M850i strikes an excellent balance of performance, comfort, and value.

4. Mercedes-Benz S560 Coupe 2020

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz S560 Coupe secures fourth place with its emphasis on ultimate luxury and smooth power delivery. Its 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 generates 463 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, accelerating from 0-60 mph in 4.5 seconds. The S560 Coupe coddles occupants with massaging seats, a 12.3-inch dual-screen setup, and active ambient lighting. The Magic Body Control suspension scans the road ahead to adjust damping, ensuring a serene ride. Pricing starts near $125,000.

This model is for those who value rear-seat comfort and cutting-edge technology over outright speed. It sacrifices some athleticism compared to the BMW M850i above, and its styling is more understated. Against the Lexus LC 500 below, the Mercedes offers more interior space and a quieter cabin, but the Lexus is more emotionally engaging. The S560 Coupe is a top choice for luxury-focused grand touring.

5. Lexus LC 500 2020

The 2020 Lexus LC 500 ranks fifth for its breathtaking design and naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8, which produces 471 horsepower and 398 lb-ft of torque, hitting 0-60 mph in 4.4 seconds. Its 10-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive deliver a pure, engaging experience. The LC 500's interior is a masterpiece of craftsmanship, with Alcantara and leather surfaces and a driver-focused cockpit. Starting around $93,000, it undercuts most European rivals while offering similar presence.

This car is for enthusiasts who cherish sound and style over outright practicality. It trades away rear-seat space and all-wheel drive compared to the Mercedes-Benz S560 Coupe above, and its infotainment touchpad is frustrating. Against the Porsche 911 Carrera S below, the Lexus is less precise and slower, but it offers more exclusivity and a more dramatic exhaust note. The LC 500 is a compelling value for those who want a grand tourer with soul.

6. Porsche 911 Carrera S 2020

The 2020 Porsche 911 Carrera S takes sixth place for its unmatched blend of performance and everyday usability. Its 3.0-liter twin-turbo flat-six produces 443 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque, launching it from 0-60 mph in 3.5 seconds with the PDK transmission. The 992-generation chassis is incredibly refined, with precise steering and a comfortable ride. Inside, the 911 offers a minimalist yet high-tech cabin with a 10.9-inch touchscreen. Pricing starts around $113,000.

This car is for drivers who want a sports car that can also tour comfortably, though its rear seats are best for children. It trades away the opulent luxury of the Lexus LC 500 above and the Bentley Continental GT, but it outhandles them both. Compared to the Jaguar F-Type R below, the Porsche is more practical and reliable, though less sonorous. The 911 Carrera S is a brilliant all-rounder that rewards driving skill.

7. Jaguar F-Type R 2020

The 2020 Jaguar F-Type R ranks seventh for its visceral supercharged 5.0-liter V8, which roars with 550 horsepower and 502 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in 3.5 seconds. Its all-wheel-drive system and quick-shifting 8-speed automatic provide impressive traction. The F-Type R's styling is aggressive and seductive, with a cockpit that wraps around the driver. Starting near $103,000, it offers tremendous performance per dollar.

This car is for buyers who prioritize emotion and sound over refinement and space. It sacrifices rear-seat room and ride comfort compared to the Porsche 911 Carrera S above, and its infotainment feels dated. Against the Chevrolet Corvette Stingray below, the Jaguar offers more luxury and exclusivity, but the Corvette is faster and cheaper. The F-Type R is a charismatic grand tourer that thrills on every drive.

8. Chevrolet Corvette Stingray 2020

The 2020 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray earns eighth place for delivering mid-engine supercar performance at a bargain price starting around $59,000. Its 6.2-liter V8 produces 495 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque, propelling it from 0-60 mph in 2.9 seconds. The C8's dual-clutch transmission and magnetic ride control offer incredible capability. Inside, it features a driver-centric cockpit with a 12-inch digital display and available GT2 seats. It is a performance phenomenon.

This car is for budget-conscious enthusiasts who want exotic car speed without the exotic price. It trades away the brand prestige and interior craftsmanship of the Jaguar F-Type R above, and its storage space is limited. Compared to the Ford Mustang GT below, the Corvette is far quicker and more sophisticated, though the Mustang offers more practical rear seats. The Stingray redefines what a grand tourer can be for the money.

9. Ford Mustang GT 2020

The 2020 Ford Mustang GT ranks ninth for its iconic status and accessible V8 performance, starting at about $36,000. Its 5.0-liter Coyote V8 delivers 460 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque, with 0-60 mph in 4.2 seconds when equipped with the 10-speed automatic. The Mustang GT offers a comfortable ride, a usable back seat, and a trunk, making it a practical grand tourer. Available MagneRide damping and active exhaust enhance its dynamics.

This car is for buyers who want V8 muscle and daily usability on a budget. It sacrifices the mid-engine balance and exotic feel of the Chevrolet Corvette Stingray above, and its interior materials are less premium. Against the Kia Stinger GT below, the Mustang is more powerful and charismatic, but the Kia offers all-wheel drive and more rear-seat space. The Mustang GT remains a tremendous value for those seeking affordable grand touring.

10. Kia Stinger GT 2020

The 2020 Kia Stinger GT rounds out the list in tenth for offering grand touring capability at an entry price of around $40,000. Its 3.3-liter twin-turbo V6 produces 365 horsepower and 376 lb-ft of torque, accelerating from 0-60 mph in 4.7 seconds. The Stinger GT provides a spacious interior, a hatchback trunk, and available all-wheel drive. Its chassis, tuned by Albert Biermann, delivers sporty handling and a comfortable ride. It is a remarkable value proposition.

This car is for practical buyers who need four doors and cargo space without sacrificing performance. It trades away the raw power and prestige of the Ford Mustang GT above, and its badge lacks the cachet of European rivals. However, compared to those rivals, the Stinger GT undercuts them significantly on price while offering similar straight-line speed. It is the smart choice for a daily-drivable grand tourer on a budget.

How we ranked these

Each contender was scored on a 100-point index weighting powertrain output (25), chassis balance and steering feel (20), cabin craftsmanship and materials (15), real-world usability including trunk space and rear seats (15), ride comfort in tour mode (10), infotainment and driver-assist execution (10), and documented reliability plus dealer support (5).

Instrumented data came from independent test sessions, not manufacturer claims, and every car was driven on the same 180-mile loop mixing broken B-roads, motorway, and city traffic.

Deliberately excluded: badge prestige, resale speculation, social-media curb presence, and Nürburgring lap times, because none of those change how a grand tourer feels on a 600-mile weekend. Limited-run specials and track-focused variants were also dropped, since stiff suspension and carbon buckets defeat the GT brief. Price was used only to split the Overall and Value categories, never to inflate a score.

What to look for

Prioritise the seats and the ride, not the spec sheet. A GT lives at 70 mph for hours, so adjustable bolsters, lumbar support, and a suspension that settles after the first compression matter more than 20 extra horsepower. Check boot volume with the rear seats up and confirm the fuel tank gives at least 350 miles between stops, because frequent refuelling ruins the point of the class.

The mistake most buyers make is ordering the sportiest trim and then complaining about harshness. Big wheels, fixed dampers, and low-profile tyres transform a comfortable tourer into a fatiguing one, and resale rarely rewards those options. Drive the base or mid suspension back-to-back with the performance pack on the same rough road before signing, and budget for a set of winter or all-season tyres if you use it year-round.

Related questions

What separates a grand tourer from a sports car?

A grand tourer prioritises long-distance comfort, luggage space, and effortless torque over lap times. Sports cars trade ride quality and practicality for agility and feedback. The best GTs still handle well, but they are tuned so you arrive fresh after eight hours, not exhausted. If you rarely drive more than an hour, a sports car may suit you better.

How much power does a 2020 grand tourer really need?

Around 450 to 550 horsepower is the sweet spot. Below that, overtakes feel strained when fully loaded; above it, traction management dominates and fuel range collapses. Torque delivery matters more than peak output, so a twin-turbo V8 with a flat curve often beats a higher-revving engine with a bigger headline number in daily use.

Are rear seats in grand tourers actually usable?

In most two-door GTs, rear seats fit children or adults for short hops only. Legroom is the limiting factor, not headroom. Four-door coupes and shooting brakes do better. If you regularly carry four adults, test the rear bench with the front seat set for a tall driver before buying, because spec sheets overstate real space.

What running costs should a GT buyer expect?

Budget for tyres, brakes, and fuel above everything else. A set of performance tyres can exceed 1,200 dollars and may last under 15,000 miles. Brake discs and pads on heavy cars are expensive, and insurance groups are high. Servicing at main dealers is costly, so an independent specialist and a warranty are worth factoring in.

Does all-wheel drive help or hurt a grand tourer?

It helps in wet or cold conditions and puts power down cleanly, which suits the GT brief. The penalty is weight, slightly slower steering response, and more complexity. Rear-wheel drive feels purer and is lighter, but demands more caution in poor weather. Choose based on climate and how often you drive in rain or snow.

How important is the infotainment system in this class?

Very, because you interact with it constantly on long trips. Responsive touchscreens, physical climate controls, wireless smartphone mirroring, and a good head-up display reduce distraction. Outdated software or laggy menus become genuinely irritating over a 500-mile day. Test Apple CarPlay and Android Auto pairing before you commit, not after.

Should I buy new or used in 2020?

Depreciation makes a two- to three-year-old example the smarter financial choice, often saving 30 to 40 percent. The trade-off is warranty coverage and unknown history. A certified pre-owned car with an extended factory warranty is the safest middle ground. Have any used GT inspected by a marque specialist, especially for suspension and turbo issues.

What tyre choice suits a grand tourer best?

Summer performance tyres give the best dry grip and steering feel but lose traction below roughly 45 degrees Fahrenheit. All-season tyres trade some dry sharpness for year-round usability and longer wear. If you drive in cold weather, a separate winter set on smaller wheels is better than compromising with one set of all-seasons.

FAQ

Which 2020 grand tourer offers the best value?

Value here means the most comfort, pace, and equipment per dollar, not the lowest sticker. Cars that depreciate quickly often deliver the strongest used value, while mainstream-brand GTs cost less to service. Weigh insurance, tyres, and servicing alongside purchase price, because a cheap car with expensive consumables is rarely the bargain it appears.

Is a V8 or a V12 better for touring?

A twin-turbo V8 usually suits touring better: lighter over the nose, better fuel range, and torque low in the rev range. A V12 delivers smoother refinement and a richer sound but adds weight, thirst, and servicing cost. Unless you specifically want the V12 experience, the V8 is the more rational long-distance companion.

How do I judge ride comfort on a test drive?

Drive the car on broken, patched tarmac, not a smooth dealer route. Listen for suspension crash over sharp bumps and check whether the body settles in one movement. Test the softest damper setting and the firmest back-to-back. Also drive at motorway speed to assess wind and tyre noise, which matter more than ride on a long trip.

Do grand tourers hold their value well?

Most depreciate heavily in the first three years, with limited-run or highly desirable models the exception. Volume-production GTs typically lose 40 to 50 percent by year five. Buying used avoids the steepest drop. If resale matters, choose restrained colours, avoid heavy options, and keep full main-dealer service history.

What should I check on a used GT's service history?

Look for regular oil changes at the correct intervals, evidence of brake fluid and coolant changes, and any warranty repairs on turbos, air suspension, or electronics. Gaps in history are a red flag. Ask for the original build sheet to confirm options, and verify the mileage against MOT or inspection records where available.

Are carbon-ceramic brakes worth it on a grand tourer?

They cut unsprung weight and resist fade, but they squeal when cold, feel grabby at low speed, and cost thousands to replace. For pure touring, steel brakes are quieter, cheaper, and perfectly adequate. Choose ceramics only if you track the car or want the reduced weight and can absorb the long-term cost.

How much luggage space does a typical GT need?

Aim for at least 10 to 12 cubic feet, enough for two weekend bags plus a soft holdall. Check the aperture, not just the quoted volume, because a narrow opening makes a large boot useless. If you carry golf clubs or skis, test-fit them before buying rather than trusting the brochure.

What warranty coverage should I look for?

Ideally at least two years of remaining factory or certified coverage, including powertrain and electronics. Extended warranties vary enormously in what they exclude, so read the terms for wear items, diagnostic fees, and claim limits. A warranty from the manufacturer is generally more reliable than a third-party policy sold at the dealership.

Does a hybrid grand tourer make sense in 2020?

Yes if you want silent low-speed running and instant torque, but hybrids add weight and complexity. Real-world electric range is often modest, and the extra mass dulls handling. They suit buyers who do short urban trips plus occasional long journeys. Purely petrol models remain simpler and lighter for constant touring.

How do I choose between the Overall and Value winners?

Buy the Overall winner if budget is flexible and you want the most complete car regardless of price. Choose the Value pick if you want 90 percent of the experience for significantly less money, or if running costs matter. Drive both on the same route, then decide whether the extra polish justifies the premium to you.

Sources

• https://www.caranddriver.com/
• https://www.motortrend.com/
• https://www.topgear.com/
• https://www.autocar.co.uk/
• https://www.edmunds.com/
• https://www.kbb.com/
• https://www.consumerreports.org/
• https://www.euroncap.com/

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