XE

The XE hit the market for 2017 with a lot of promise: Its good looks and athletic moves had it vying to be our favorite in the small-luxury-sedan segment. However, it's an ultra-competitive segment, and since the XE's debut there have been two very strong new entrants—Alfa Romeo's sweet-driving Giulia and the all-around-excellent Genesis G70—along with a much-improved BMW 3-series. It's still a looker, and it drives well, although we miss the XE's strong 380-hp V-6 that's no longer available for 2020. What's left are two turbo four-cylinders—an entry-level P250 model with 247 horsepower or a P300 with 296 horsepower —that aren't class leading in either performance or efficiency, and its small back seat and trunk hinder the XE on the practicality front. A substantial update for 2020 adds upgraded interior materials and additional features, but still leaves the XE vying for mid-pack status.