Grand tourers, or GTs, represent the perfect blend of performance and luxury, designed for covering long distances in comfort while still delivering an engaging driving experience. The term ‘GT’ has been used across various automotive brands, sometimes as a trim level or a performance variant. However, in its purest form, a grand tourer is a car that excels at effortless long-distance travel while offering a premium driving experience.
To qualify as a true GT, a car must have a smooth and refined ride, comfortable and supportive seats, and an interior that makes every journey enjoyable. But it should also feel special—whether you’re cruising down a highway or admiring it parked in your driveway. Here are the seven best grand tourers currently available, ranked for their ability to deliver both performance and luxury.
1. Porsche Panamera
When Porsche introduced the first-generation Panamera in 2009, the idea of a four-door Porsche saloon was met with skepticism. However, it quickly established itself as a masterfully engineered driver’s car that could cross continents with ease. The latest iteration of the Panamera has refined its formula further, offering a range of powerful engines, an impeccably balanced chassis, and a high level of comfort. Whether in hybrid form or with a traditional combustion engine, the Panamera provides an engaging yet smooth ride, making it a top contender in the GT segment.
2. Alpina B3
The Alpina B3 might look like a standard BMW 3 Series to the untrained eye, but it is far more than that. Alpina, known for its meticulous tuning, transforms the B3 into a vehicle that combines high-speed capability with everyday usability. Unlike the BMW M3, which leans towards track performance, the B3 prioritizes a more refined and comfortable ride while still delivering thrilling acceleration and dynamic handling. This makes it an excellent choice for those who want a fast yet discreet GT.
3. Mercedes-Benz SL
One might assume that the Mercedes-AMG GT is the brand’s ultimate grand tourer, but in reality, it leans more towards sports car territory with a focus on driver engagement. The Mercedes-Benz SL, on the other hand, is the true embodiment of a GT. With its classic roadster design, luxurious cabin, and a smooth, powerful drivetrain, the SL is designed to deliver effortless cruising. The latest generation has been reengineered to offer improved dynamics while maintaining the comfort and refinement expected from a high-end touring car.
4. BMW 8 Series Gran Coupé
The BMW 8 Series Gran Coupé marks the return of BMW’s flagship grand tourer, filling the gap left by the iconic E31-generation 8 Series after a two-decade hiatus. It brings a perfect balance of elegance and performance, offering a more premium alternative to the 6 Series Coupé it replaced. With a well-appointed interior, advanced technology, and a lineup of powerful engines, the 8 Series Gran Coupé is a fantastic choice for those who want a sophisticated long-distance cruiser with strong driving dynamics.
5. Jaguar F-Type
The Jaguar F-Type has been one of the most visually striking and exciting GT cars for nearly a decade. Initially seen as a modern alternative to classic British sports cars, the F-Type has evolved over the years. While the V6 variants gained popularity for their balance of power and efficiency, Jaguar later introduced a four-cylinder model to broaden its appeal. As it enters its final production years, the F-Type remains an outstanding choice for those seeking a stylish and thrilling grand tourer.
6. BMW M550i xDrive
While the BMW M550i xDrive may not have the sleek, coupe-like design of some other grand tourers on this list, it still earns its place with an exceptional blend of comfort and performance. Its twin-turbo V8 engine delivers strong acceleration, while BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system ensures stability in all conditions. The M550i offers a refined cabin, a smooth ride, and enough power to make any journey enjoyable, making it a great GT option for those who prefer a more understated yet highly capable vehicle.
7. Mercedes-Benz CLS
The Mercedes-Benz CLS played a major role in popularizing the concept of the four-door coupé, a body style that blends the practicality of a saloon with the sleek profile of a coupé. Since its introduction in 2004, the CLS has remained a stylish and comfortable choice for those seeking a long-distance cruiser with a distinctive design. While its origins as the pioneer of the ‘coupé-saloon’ may be debated, there’s no denying that Mercedes has refined the concept to create a luxurious and capable GT.
The Ultimate GT Experience
Grand tourers are about more than just speed—they are designed to provide a balance of luxury, comfort, and performance, making them ideal for long journeys. Whether you prefer the dynamic capability of the Porsche Panamera, the discreet luxury of the Alpina B3, or the elegance of the BMW 8 Series Gran Coupé, these GTs ensure that every drive is as enjoyable as the destination itself.