title：Britain’s Best Driver’s Car 2022: Top 5 Winners & Reviews

content：The 33-Year Legacy of AutoCar’s Driver’s Car Contest

Ever wondered which sports car took the crown as Britain’s Best Driver’s Car 2022? AutoCar’s annual contest—running for over 33 years—is the gold standard for driver-focused reviews, and this year’s top 5 are packed with surprises (including a repeat winner). After analyzing their in-depth track tests, I’m breaking down the key insights you need to know about the cars that stood out.

The contest evaluates 11 cars: 10 new launches plus last year’s winner. Each car is scored out of 250 points, with judges focusing on balance, performance, and driver engagement. This year, the stakes were high—especially for the defending champion, the Porsche 911 GT3.

content：Top 5 Cars: Performance & Personality Breakdown

Let’s dive into the top 5, starting from fifth place up to the winner. Each car brings unique strengths to the table, but only one could take the crown.

Toyota GR86: The Approachable Joy

Fifth place goes to the Toyota GR86. Judges praised its friendly, balanced nature—perfect for cold, damp tracks. Key highlights: a smooth six-speed manual, excellent brake feel, and throttle adjustability that lets drivers play with the rear end. Unlike the old model, it revs cleanly to 7,500 RPM, and while the exhaust note is more synthetic, it’s still satisfying. No more excuses for its purity; it’s a joy to drive without compromise.

McLaren Artura: Hybrid Power Done Right

Fourth place is the McLaren Artura. This hybrid supercar fixes launch issues and delivers instant power (no turbo lag) thanks to its hybrid system. Judges loved its hydraulic steering (a rare choice these days, as most use electric) and stable braking. It’s fast, capable, and ergonomically sound—though the steering wheel could go higher. While not the most dramatic-sounding engine, it’s effective and fun to push.

Porsche Cayman GT4 RS: Mid-Engine Precision

Third place goes to the Porsche Cayman GT4 RS. This mid-engine marvel revs to 9,000 RPM and feels lighter than its 911 counterparts. Judges noted its needle-sharp agility and balanced weight distribution. It’s precise on turns, soft-adjustable, and even handles braking mid-corner without unsettling. It scored 220 points—just one shy of the next car.

Ferrari 296 GTB: Blistering Speed & Playfulness

Second place is the Ferrari 296 GTB. This plug-in hybrid V6 (dubbed the “piccolino V12” for its V12-like sound) is absurdly rapid yet approachable. Judges loved its light steering, quick direction changes, and ability to let drivers choose between precision or playful drifts. It scored 221 points—just four less than the winner.

Porsche 911 GT3: The Repeat Champion

The winner, with 225 points, is the Porsche 911 GT3. This marks only the fourth time in 33 years a car has retained its title—and the first for Porsche. Judges raved about its scalpel-sharp precision, 9,000 RPM rev range, and ability to be both a track weapon and a daily driver. It balances control and fun: you can drive it delicately or playfully, and it always delivers.

content：Why the 911 GT3 Retained Its Crown

The 911 GT3’s win isn’t just about speed—it’s about timeless design and driver-centric engineering. Unlike newer hybrids, it sticks to what works: a naturally aspirated engine, precise steering, and a balance that appeals to both casual drivers and track enthusiasts. Its retention is a testament to Porsche’s commitment to refining a classic rather than reinventing it.

content：Your Actionable Guide to Choosing a Driver’s Car

If you’re in the market for a driver’s car, here’s a quick checklist to follow:

1. Test track time: If possible, drive the car on a track to feel its limits.
2. Check throttle adjustability: Does it let you control the rear end easily?
3. Evaluate steering feel: Hydraulic steering (like McLaren’s) often offers more feedback.
4. Daily drivability: Can you use it for commutes as well as weekends?
5. Match your style: Do you prefer precision (Porsche) or playfulness (Ferrari)?

For deeper insights, consider an AutoCar subscription (digital or print) — they’ve been covering driver’s cars since 1895, so their expertise is unmatched.

content：Final Thoughts & Engagement

The 2022 contest proved that great driver’s cars balance performance and personality. The Porsche 911 GT3’s repeat win shows that sometimes, perfection doesn’t need to change.

Which of these top 5 cars would you most want to drive? Is it the playful Ferrari or the precise Porsche? Share your pick in the comments below—let’s discuss!