2016 BMW 3 Series 330e

The 3 Series is BMW's compact sports sedan, the one that's been the benchmark for driving feel since the 1970s. If you're also looking at an Audi A4 or a Mercedes C-Class, this is the one that puts the most emphasis on how it drives. The steering is quick and precise, and the chassis stays flat through corners, so it feels eager every time you get in. The ride is firm but controlled, which is the trade for how well it handles, though the sport seats are supportive on long trips. The 330e is the plug-in hybrid of the 3 Series range, sitting above the 328i in price but below the 340i, and it gives you electric-only driving for short commutes. Its 2.0L I4 plug-in hybrid pairs with an electric motor for 181 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, and the eight-speed automatic shifts smoothly whether you're on battery or gas. The 330e can drive up to 14 miles on electricity alone, so you might not burn a drop of fuel on your daily errands.