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Edmunds: Five ideal cars you’d love to receive this holiday season

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Edmunds: Five ideal cars you’d love to receive this holiday season

As the holiday season approaches, many individuals find themselves fantasizing about cars they would love to have parked in their driveways. With this in mind, a team of experts has compiled a list of five remarkable vehicles that capture the imagination—vehicles that, while on the higher end of the price spectrum, are still somewhat attainable. The list is organized from the least to the most expensive, inclusive of destination fees.

**Ford F-150 Raptor R**
Off-road trucks have a reputation for being visually striking and exceptionally capable. The F-150 Raptor R is currently at the pinnacle for 2025 truck enthusiasts. Building on the already impressive foundations of the standard Raptor, the R variant boasts a thrilling 720-horsepower supercharged 5.2-liter V8 engine, upgraded Fox dual-valve shock absorbers, and massive 37-inch all-terrain tires. Unique enhancements, including an R-specific grille and hood, further display its prowess.
On top of its intimidating capabilities, the Raptor R offers a variety of features that make it practical for everyday use. Standard amenities comprise luxurious leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, a high-end audio system, and a surround-view camera, all engineered to facilitate parking this sizable truck.
**Starting Price: $112,825**

**Mercedes-Benz S-Class**
In the realm of luxury sedans, few can rival the opulence and prestige associated with the Mercedes-Benz S-Class. This magnificent sedan incorporates nearly every luxury and performance innovation that the brand has to offer. Interiors are lavishly appointed, with materials often covered in leather, heated features, and ambient lighting that rivals a nightclub.
Among the standout attributes of the S-Class is the advanced E-Active Body Control system designed to analyze the road ahead and adapt the suspension for an unparalleled driving experience. It includes an extensive suite of safety features and utilizes augmented reality for a head-up display that presents important information directly in the driver’s line of sight. For those desiring the highest level of performance, the 791-horsepower AMG S 63 E Performance model is an option.
**Starting Price: $118,900**

**Chevrolet Corvette ZR1**
Why look to European exotics when the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 offers comparable performance right at home? A sports car lover’s wish list isn’t complete without this amazing machine. The newest Corvette has set records with a jaw-dropping top speed of 233 mph, earning the title of the fastest car produced by an American automaker, as well as the fastest production car under $1 million.
The ZR1 achieves this astonishing performance via its turbocharged 5.5-liter V8 engine, which delivers a staggering 1,064 horsepower. Its carbon-fiber aerodynamic enhancements ensure it remains firmly grounded, generating over 1,200 pounds of downforce at maximum speed. Chevrolet claims the ZR1 can complete a quarter-mile sprint in under 10 seconds, with availability expected in early 2025.
**Estimated Starting Price: $150,000**

**Cadillac Escalade-V**
For those dreaming of a large and powerful SUV, the Cadillac Escalade-V deserves a spot at the top. With a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine producing 682 horsepower, this SUV can accelerate to 60 mph in a swift 4.4 seconds. The Escalade-V also comes equipped with towering 24-inch wheels and substantial Brembo brakes that provide effective stopping power for its hefty three-ton frame.
However, the Escalade-V is more than just raw power; it offers three rows of seating, ample cargo capacity, and outstanding technology features like Super Cruise, a hands-free highway driving assistance system, along with a colossal 55-inch curved display that spans the dashboard.
**Starting Price: $161,990**

**Lucid Air Sapphire**
Imagine a car that excels in drag races, competes with elite sports cars on tracks, and remains practical for everyday use. The Lucid Air Sapphire belongs on your dream car list. As a luxury electric sedan, it’s among the most powerful production vehicles globally, with three electric motors generating an astonishing 1,234 horsepower. This model boasts a top speed of 205 mph and can accelerate to 60 mph in a jaw-dropping 1.9 seconds. There are numerous settings available to either optimize track performance or ensure a smooth daily commute.
**Starting Price: $250,500**

Even if owning one of these extraordinary vehicles feels out of reach, it’s still fun to envision one parked outside your home or dream of driving it around the city. Who knows, the magic of the holiday season might just open the door to making such aspirations a reality in the future.