While it should be the automotive equivalent of a mullet (mixing neither business nor party correctly), the entry-level luxury sport sedan has become the default option for American buyers who need a lady in the streets and a freak on the track.
Until recently, buyers in this category had two options: the BMW 3 Series or something that wasn't as good as the BMW 3 Series. But times have changed and BMW's spot at the top of the pecking order is as unstable as it's ever been. The base engine is now a turbocharged four-cylinder, and challengers to the throne are getting exceptionally good.
Back in March of 2012, the 328i barely beat two very good cars to defend its position. Now, there are two new challengers that may give it even more trouble: the 2014 Lexus IS and the 2013 Cadillac ATS.
So we picked a price, mandated that all entrants have an automatic transmission and a sport package, and set out to find which is the best $45,000 sport sedan: the 2014 Lexus IS 250 F Sport, 2013 Cadillac ATS 2.0 Premium or the 2013 BMW 328i M Sport Line.
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