We’re well into summer, and now is about the time that those last few road trips come to fruition. With any of these five grand touring sports cars in your hands, you’re sure to enjoy the ride to your favorite late-summer destinations.

1. BMW M5 – The Ultimate Grand Touring Sports Car Reigns

It’s a legend for a reason, and the 2023 BMW M5 rips its way through another model year. The 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 is a symphony of European engineering. Throwing down anywhere from 600 horsepower (base) to 617 horsepower (Competition), the M5 remains a leader for four-door super sedans in 2023.

This grand touring sports car exudes luxury as well as performance. The Vernasca leather seats are adjustable in 21 different ways. Voice-activated tech and a heads-up display mean you never have to take your eyes off the road.

The only real drawback to the M5 is its six-figure price tag. But if it’s in your wheelhouse (Or you can snag one on Turo for a weekend) the M5 is one grand touring sports car that doesn’t compromise anything.

2. Lexus LC500 – No Turbo Means Plenty of Character

Similar in price point and performance, the Lexus LC500 is easy to overlook when considering GT cars. However, we think that’s a mistake. The naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 produces an otherworldly howl when you get high in the rev range. But for a cruise around town, this grand touring sports car is as sedate and seductive as anything you’ll find.

The 417 horsepower lags behind the M5 a touch, but this is a two-door sports car built for cruising rather than outright pace. It’s still got plenty of punch to put a smile on your face, going from zero to 60 mph in just 4.6 seconds, per Car and Driver instrumented testing.

3. Mercedes-AMG C43 – The four-cylinder engine is a ripper

The smaller of the AMG-powered C-Class models, the C43 does well with its 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cyilnder engine. Yes, the last-gen’s V6 was great, but this little four-pot cranks out 402 horsepower – 15 more than its bigger ancestor.

All of that is to say that the AMG C43 hasn’t been ruined by its smaller engine. In fact, it now resides squarely in the category of ‘exciting daily drivers’ thanks to its respectable 26 mpg highway fuel economy.

And, of course, the cabin is sublime. Carbon fiber trim, a suede-wrapped steering wheel, and premium leather seats make the C43 a typically enjoyable drive. And if you’ve got passengers, the four-zone automatic climate control will be a boon.

4. BMW M240i – The grand touring sports car that defies expectation

I had a chance to take the BMW M240i for an extended excursion throughout New England, and it defied my expectations. No longer a focused sports car, the M240i is now a grand tourer through and through. But there’s nothing wrong with that.

The Vernasca-leather-wrapped seats are supremely comfortable. The 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder engine chucks out a BMW-stated 382 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, though it’s likely quite a bit more than that in reality.

Handling is composed and responsive without jarring you inside. And with 14 cubic feet of trunk space, you can throw suitcases in the back without any problems.

5. Porsche Panamera – A classic choice with something for everyone

Perhaps the forgotten child of the Porsche lineup, the Panamera still holds up as an excellent grand touring sports car. With everything from a 2.0-liter turbo to a twin-turbo V8 engine option throughout its lineup, there is truly a Panamera for every taste. The 2+2 seat configuration is ample for rear-seat riders. And with nearly 18 cubic feet of trunk, it travels better than most.

Which grand touring sports car tickles your fancy?

Let us know which of these GT cars you’d take on your next road trip! Personally, I’d love to hit the road in an M5 for a weekend on the road, but let us know your thoughts!