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Top Luxury Cars

The Acura TL takes over the top spot as the most popular luxury car among shoppers on MSN Autos.

The most popular luxury cars on MSN Autos, based on visits to the site's vehicle pages during the third quarter of 2004.

The Acura TL topped the list of the luxury cars most popular with MSN shoppers for the third quarter of 2004, taking the top position away from the BMW 3-Series. The Infiniti G35, which was new for 2003, rounded out the top three.

BMW placed three cars on the list with the redesigned 5-Series and the flagship 7-Series also making the cut.

The list of the top ten luxury cars on MSN Autos is based on total visits to the site's vehicle research pages during the third quarter of 2004. Here is the complete list:

1. Acura TL
The TL sport sedan was completely new for 2004, with updated styling, a refined chassis and a 3.2-liter 270-horsepower V6 engine teamed with an available 6-speed manual transmission. A DVD-Audio surround sound audio system and Bluetooth wireless phone connectivity are standard.

2. BMW 3-Series
Descendant of the mid-'60s 1600, the BMW 3-Series is considered by automotive enthusiasts to be the first compact sedan offering sports car performance. For 2004, 3-Series coupes and convertibles feature new front and rear styling and a 6-speed manual transmission replaces the 5-speed on 330 trims. A 6-speed Sequential Manual Gearbox (SMG) is available on all rear-wheel-drive trims. Look for an all-new 3-Series arriving sometime next year.

3. Infiniti G35
A new addition to the Infiniti lineup for the 2003 model year, the G35 Sport Sedan went on sale in March 2002. The four-passenger G35 Sport Coupe joined the lineup later that year. Both the coupe and sedan are front-engine/rear-wheel-drive platforms with fresh, crisp designs and advanced technology aimed at driving enthusiasts. The 3.5-liter V6 produces 260 horsepower in the sedan and 280 horsepower in the coupe.

4. BMW 5-Series
The 5-Series was completely redesigned for 2004 with unique exterior styling that draws from the 7-Series, as well as the controversial I-Drive system. The new 5-Series is larger but lighter than the previous generation due to extensive use of aluminum. The 545i is powered by a 325-horsepower V8, with the 525i and 530i powered by inline 6-cylinder powerplants. Available technology includes active steering, which varies the steering ratio based on vehicle speed, steering angle and other factors.

5. Bentley Continental GT
The Continental GT is the first model to come out of Bentley Motor Cars, Ltd., the new company that was formed on September 17, 2002, ending a 70-year partnership with Rolls-Royce. Priced around $150,000 (inexpensive for a Bentley), the Continental GT is a stunning 2-door, 4-seat coupe. The first Bentley to offer all-wheel drive, this high-performance coupe boasts a 552-horsepower engine and a claimed top speed close to 200 mph.

6. Maybach
Maybachs were originally built for high society and were the most expensive models of their time, selling 1,800 units between 1921 and 1941. In 2004, Mercedes-Benz brought back the Maybach name on this ultra-luxury car that the company refers to as "a business jet on wheels." Seats recline with integrated footrests; a panorama roof can electronically go from transparent to opaque; and champagne can be stored in the chilled compartment between the rear seats.

Luxury Cars — Facts

Last year, Americans bought just over 500,000 new luxury cars, accounting for just over three percent of total new light-vehicle sales. Priced above $34,000, luxury cars represent an ideal of comfort, security, prestige and elegance. In recent years, luxury car sales had slowed as a growing number of luxury sport utilities have taken their place on the road.

This Year's ConvertiblesOpen-top fun starting at $20,000.
This Year's Luxury CarsPriced around $27,000 to $119,000.
The Crème de la CrèmeLuxury automobiles priced above $100,000.
The Near-Luxury SegmentValue-priced performance and prestige.
The Luxury Wagon GuideLuxury and performance in a wagon.