Dads, like cars, come in all shapes, sizes, and personalities. This Father’s Day, we choose the best vehicles for dad, keeping in mind that whatever his style, there’s always room for a little luxury.
The Executive Dad
Mercedes-Benz E-Class Always stylish, sophisticated and sporty, the E-Class is the leader in luxury. All new for 2017, is the ultimate executive sedan. It has a new engine and a new Driver Assistance Package that make it the most intelligent sedan in its class, taking the next step along the road to autonomous driving. Touch-sensitive control buttons on the steering wheel are an industry first that will keep dad’s “hands on the wheel, eyes on the road,” and make him the hippest exec in the corner suite.
Runner up: Jaguar XF Indulgent, and the guiltiest of pleasures, the retooled sedan is stylish and a blast to drive.
The DIY Dad
Ford F-150 Limited For all of those weekend trips to the Home Depot, or hauling toys to the lake for family fun, the lightweight, aluminum alloy F-150 is a workhorse with the upscale styling of a luxury SUV. It’s got Alcantara leather seat inserts, high-tech communications and entertainment systems. High style and even higher function.
Runner Up: Toyota Tundra 1794 Edition The 1794 luxury trim reflects a Western lifestyle theme and includes exclusive saddle brown premium leather-trimmed heated and ventilated seats with embossed leather and ultra-suede accents.
The Soccer Dad
Lincoln Navigator Even before the new Navigator Concept comes to fruition, the current iteration of the world’s first luxury SUV is the ultimate people mover. The third row has class-leading legroom for passengers, and it is versatile for both kids and cargo. The dual-headrest entertainment system keeps the kids entertained on long road trips, and advanced safety systems keep everyone safe. And the whole family will enjoy the smooth ride and comfortable, stylish interior.
Runner Up: Chrysler Pacifica With integrated technology the likes of which the segment has never seen, modern styling and a built-in vacuum for quick clean-ups, the new Pacifica makes the minivan cool for even the hippest of dads and coaches.
The Adventurer Dad
Range Rover Sport There’s nothing more capable than a Range Rover. It’s like the superhero of the automotive world, able to leap tall boulders in a single bound — in brightest day and blackest night, nothing can beat its might. Range Rover also has luxury in spades, making it a near perfect vehicle for adventures both rugged and refined.
Runner Up: Ford Explorer Platinum It can go anywhere, haul almost anything, and even massage your weary derriere on a long trip. Striking good looks, an impeccably appointed interior, and state-of-the-art yet easy-to-operate technology, at a downright bargain price for a luxury vehicle, make Explorer a very close runner up for the active family.
The Speed Freak Dad
Audi R8 It’s definitely not a practical family car, but when dad wants to blow off steam on the track, the 525 horsepower V-10 can carry him from zero to 60 miles per hour in a mere 3.4 seconds, and has a top speed of 200 miles per hour. The vehicle for choice of Christian Grey and Tony Stark, the R8 is sexy and strong.
Runner Up: Alfa Romeo 4C Its limited-edition status makes it especially desirable, but that’s not to discount its striking look, its speed and the staccato rhythms of the exhaust. Definitely a two-seater, at best, and suited for the track, if you can find one, grab it.
The Try-Before-You-Buy Dad
Omni Montelucia Dream Car Driving Experience Super cars may not be the most practical choice for the family man, so treat dad to a day of driving some of the world’s coolest cars: Ferrari, Lamborghini, Aston Martin, Bentley, to name a few. While this event is an exclusive Father’s Day weekend experience, Omni Montelucia also offers luxury car rentals throughout the year. Visit their website for details.
Runner Up: Bondurant Racing School Road racing, high-performance driving, open-wheel racing — these are just some of Bondurant’s world-famous driving programs. Check their website for a buy one, get one 50 percent off multi-day driving class summer special.