Price: $33,410

Arguably the sportiest of this short list, the Nissan Maxima combines athletic performance with a healthy dollop of luxury. The passenger experience is top-notch, yet drivers appreciate its sports car-like handling and aggressive acceleration. A continuously variable transmission, or CVT, hustles output from the 290-horsepower, 3.5-liter engine to the front wheels. It will reach 60 mph from a standstill in just over six seconds.

Fuel economy is on par with peers on this luxury car list. Five adults can comfortably fit in the leather-appointed interior. An impressive standard features list includes dual-zone automatic climate control, full power accessories, keyless entry and ignition, power-adjustable front seats, a trip computer, tilt-telescoping leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, power sunroof and auto-dimming rearview mirror. It also offers Bluetooth connectivity, a nine-speaker, Bose-infused audio system with an in-dash, six-disc CD player, satellite radio and auxiliary audio input.