This guide is a compiled list of the top-performing 2008-model year small premium cars in J.D. Power and Associates’ key automotive research studies. The studies include the 2007 Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS), the 2007 Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study, and the 2007 Initial Quality Study (IQS). All models are listed alphabetically by manufacturer.
Acura TSX: Based on the same platform shared with the European Honda Accord, the Acura TSX features a suspension tuned for performance and handling. While the 4-door TSX is the smallest Acura in the lineup, many consider it to be the sportiest model. The TSX offers standard leather seating, satellite radio, a power moonroof, and split fold-down rear seats. The only factory option is a navigation system. The standard engine is a 4-cylinder unit that earned EPA fuel-economy estimates of 20 mpg city/28 mpg highway, with the automatic transmission. In the 2007 IQS, which measures new-vehicle quality after 90 days of ownership, the Acura TSX ranked among the top three models in its segment. In crash testing conducted by the NHTSA, the Acura TSX earned 5-star ratings in the frontal-impact tests. Voice recognition was added to the navigation system for Hawaii residents in 2008.
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Audi A4: Manufactured in Germany, the Audi A4 is world-renowned for its sporty driving manners, capable all-wheel drive (AWD), and world-class interior. Consumers may choose from sedan, convertible, and wagon platforms. Under the hood, Audi offers 4-, 6-, or 8-cylinder engines in most of their models. While the standard models are FWD, Audi’s AWD (“quattro”) is also available. The standard Audi A4 2.0, with FWD and an automatic transmission, earned EPA fuel-economy estimates of 21 mpg city/30 mpg highway: good enough to earn a Top 3 ranking in its class for fuel efficiency. Consumers have been very pleased with the performance, layout, design, and content of their A4’s, evident by its top-three ranking in segment in the 2007 APEAL study. The IIHS named the A4 a “Top Safety Pick” for 2008. Audi made several cosmetic and option changes to the A4 for the 2008 model year.
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BMW 3 Series: Long regarded by many as the standard in compact sport sedans, the BMW 3 Series was completely redesigned in 2006, and ranked highest in its segment in the 2007 APEAL study. The 3 Series is available in sedan, coupé, wagon, and convertible body styles, with an assortment of engines with 6- or 8-cylinder power. While the standard models are rear-wheel drive (RWD), the maker’s AWD system, “xDrive,” is also available. With an automatic transmission, the 328i earned EPA fuel-economy estimates of 19 mpg city/28 mpg highway. The IIHS chose the BMW 3 Series as a “Top Safety Pick” for 2008. BMW made only minor changes to the wheels, audio options, and added AWD to coupé models for 2008.
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Lexus IS: When designing the IS, Lexus took direct aim at the BMW 3 Series, its primary competition. The Lexus features a luxurious interior, loaded with innovative standard and available technology, inside a well-balanced sport sedan chassis. The RWD or AWD Lexus offers three different engine choices and seating for up to 4 passengers. In the 2007 APEAL study, the Lexus IS ranked among the top three models in its segment. In standard trim, the IS 250 model earned EPA fuel-economy estimates of 21 mpg city/29 mpg highway, putting it in the Top 3 in its segment. The Lexus IS has also earned accolades from the IIHS, which named it a “Top Safety Pick” for 2008. The IS F, a 400-hp, high-performance model designed to compete with the BMW M3 and Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG, is new for 2008. In addition, the 17-inch wheels and interior illumination have been updated for the new model year.
