Top cars for the men of today

When it comes to aesthetics, it’s more likely to be a man that opts for looks over practicality when buying a new car, according to research into consumer spending habits…

While female car buying behaviour typically focuses on price and running costs, there’s a purchase pattern among men that suggests they’d sooner choose looks and performance, over price, fuel consumption or whether it will hold its value.

So, assuming this research is close to the mark, here’s our top choices for cars that you guys might pick…

1. Porsche 911 GT3

Debuting in the 1960s, the 911 has held onto its cool in the looks stakes, and yet remains every bit a performance-driven racing car, with its finely-tuned flat six engine and communicative steering. AutoExpress named this classic its top performance car for 2017.

2. Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio

This super saloon is sleek, svelte and substantial, getting 503bhp from its twin turbocharged V6 engine. UK models also come with an eight-speed automatic gearbox as standard.

3. Honda NSX

Aimed at an American market, the shiny black and chrome detailing on this low-slung sports marque, coupled with 500bhp and 0 to 60 in 3.3 seconds, make it a high contender on a man’s shopping list.

4. Ford Focus RS

Even though the Focus RS is more than £30,000 for a hatchback, with its all-wheel-drive system and 2.3-litre Ecoboost engine that gets 345bhp, you buy a lot of bang for your buck when it comes to performance. Autocar gave the Focus five stars, saying driving it conveys the sensation of being behind the wheel of a Group B rally car.

5. Mercedes AMG C63

Direct steering, excellent grip and overall great performance on the C63 can probably be put down to its sportscar engine, lifted from the Mercedes AMG GT– a rival to the 911.

6. Honda Civic Type R

It’s pretty racy in the looks department, and the Type R has been given five stars by Car Magazine. Its turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder VTEC engine gets power up to 316bhp, attributed to reduced back-pressure from the updated exhaust system that provides increased volume.

7. BMW 2 Series Coupe Performance

With a hard-hitting turbocharged engine, rear wheel drive and eight-speed automatic gearbox, the performance of the 2 Series is gripping and seductive. From an aesthetics point of view, it’s svelte and sporty, without the boxy rear end of the 1 Series, and starts at just £22,590.

8. Audi S3 Sportback

Sleek, smooth curves balanced by sharp creases give the A3 an expensive feel. And on the performance front, a 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine gets 306bhp, while four-wheel drive gives it a touch grip of the road.

9. Volkswagen Golf GTI performance edition

The Golf is an original “hot hatch”, and AutoExpress gave the 2017 model five stars, getting from 0 to 62mph in 4.6 seconds from its punchy yet responsive engine, while its look is sporty, stylish and consistent.

10. Jaguar XF

This new British classic is instantly recognisable as a Jaguar, with its smooth lines and iconic grille. Available with a powerful 3.0-litre diesel engine and an eight-speed automatic transmission, you can get 0 to 62mph in just 6.6 seconds.

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