Nothing can compare to driving a luxurious and high-performance German car on the Autobahn.
Your adrenaline pumping as your foot eases down on the accelerator. No speed limit in sight.
The engine’s growl becomes music, and the hum of tires on the smooth asphalt provides rhythm.
German car brands were engineered for unforgettable experiences like this.
Germany has always excelled in science, technology, and design. It’s no wonder that German cars are the epitome of automobile engineering and innovation. Synonymous with luxury, elegance, and performance, German cars are in a prestigious league of their own. The German car brands we’re discussing today are instantly recognizable and held highly as household names worldwide.
Every year, German car brands captivate readers’ curiosity and interest, claiming the top spots of the most popular luxury car brands online.
In this exploration of the best German cars, we delve into a world where driving isn’t just a journey; it’s an experience.
| Rank | Brand | Logo |
| 1. | BMW |  |
| 2. | Audi |  |
| 3. | Mercedes-Benz |  |
| 4. | Porsche |  |
| 5. | Volkswagen (VW) |  |
| 6. | Opel |  |
| 7. | Smart |  |
Psssst: curious to see what other countries have in store? Check the rest of our series on the best car brands by country below.
BMW
Known for its powerful engines, precise handling, and excellent driving dynamics, BMW rides at the intersection of performance and luxury. The brand’s motto ‘sheer driving pleasure’ really hits home. This experience is coupled with premium comfort in the form of high-quality interiors, comfortable seating, and advanced technology features.
BMW’s high-performance engines can be traced back to their history in aircraft engineering during World War I, the company transitioned to car engines once automobiles became widely accessible to the public. Alpina, acquired by the BMG Group in 2022, is renowned for enhancing the performance of stock BMWs. By adding power, enhancing handling, and refining aerodynamics, Alpina ensures an elevated driving experience. In a similar vein, the high-performance division of BMW, known as BMW M, has consistently pushed the boundaries of automotive excellence. Renowned for their track-inspired engineering, BMW automobiles that proudly wear the M series badge represent a driving experience that ignites the senses. Whether it’s the iconic M3, the commanding M5, or the versatile X5 M, each vehicle in the BMW M Series represents the peak of performance and design.
| Founder: | Karl Rapp and Gustav Otto |
| Founded In: | 1916 |
| Manufacturer: | BMW |
| Types of car: | Sedans, coupes, SUVs, convertible, sports cars, stationwagons, electric, hybrid. |
| Best-selling car: | BMW 3 Series |
| Website: | bmwusa.com |
Audi
In the world of luxury German automobiles, no brand incorporates elegance with state-of-the-art technology like Audi. In the 1980’s, Audi’s implemented its Quattro all-wheel drive (AWD) system, significantly improving vehicle stability and traction. Today Audi continues to innovate with features such as a Virtual Cockpit, Audi Drive and Audi Touch Technology in its high-performance RS vehicles.
Audi fearlessly embraces innovation, setting new standards in the automotive world. But it’s not just about technology. Audi’s vehicle designs exude sophistication and command attention wherever they go.
| Founder: | August Horch |
| Founded In: | 1932 |
| Manufacturer: | Volkswagen |
| Types of car: | Sedans, SUVs, convertible, high-performance vehicles, stationwagons, electric, hybrid. |
| Best-selling car: | Audi A4 |
| Website: | audi.com |
Mercedes-Benz
When it comes to iconic German car companies, it would be impossible to overlook the Star of this line-up, Mercedes-Benz.
Karl Benz patented the Motorwagen in 1885, widely considered the world’s first true automobile. Since then, Mercedes-Benz has gone on to become one of the most renowned luxury car manufacturers in the world.
The brand strives itself on seamless integration of timeless design, superior comfort, and cutting-edge technology. Mercedez-Benz also invests heavily on safety features. Models like the S-Class and E-Class have innovative safety technology such as advanced driver assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic braking systems. The Mercedes Benz AMG range provides the driver with a ride they’ll never forget. AMG models are high-performance tuned supercars with hand-crafted engines, custom exhaust systems, and sport-tuned suspensions. If you’re looking for something larger than life, the Maybach ensures the most luxurious experience on wheels. Maybach vehicles have exquisitely crafted interiors and contain bespoke design elements for an unrivaled feeling of opulence.
| Founder: | Karl Benz and Gottlieb Daimler |
| Founded In: | 1926 |
| Manufacturer: | Mercedes-Benz |
| Types of car: | Luxury sedans, SUVs, crossovers, convertible, high-performance vehicles, stationwagons, electric, hybrid. |
| Best-selling car: | Mercedes C-Class |
| Website: | mbusa.com |
Porsche
Rich in motorsport heritage, Porsche gained popularity through racing success in the 1960s.
Porsche was willing to innovate when others weren’t. Modified engine design, aerodynamics, and lightweight materials gave rise to the 911, which captivated a generation. The iconic Porsche 911 seamlessly transitioned from dominating racetracks to conquering highways, instantly earning its status as a timeless classic. Over the years, the 911’s ability to blend speed, style, and sophistication has cemented its reputation as a masterpiece in the world of luxury sports cars. This combination of performance and elegance has not only defined the 911 but has also permeated throughout the entire Porsche lineup.
| Founder: | Ferdinand Porsche |
| Founded In: | 1931 |
| Manufacturer: | Porsche |
| Types of car: | Sports cars, supercars, high-performance vehicles, SUVs |
| Best-selling car: | Porsche Cayenne |
| Website: | porsche.com |
Volkswagen (VW)
From the Beetle to the Golf, Volkswagen’s range has to contain the most recognizable German cars on the market. Known for their reliability and practicality, Volkswagen offers a wide range of vehicles to suit any consumer. Are you after an affordable compact car to get around town? The Golf is the ideal choice.
Searching for a family-friendly SUV that’s perfect for a holiday adventure? Look no further than the Tiguan. Volkswagen has made a significant commitment to transitioning toward electric vehicles. The brand’s ID series serves as an example of this drive.
| Founder: | The German government |
| Founded In: | 1937 |
| Manufacturer: | Volkswagen |
| Types of car: | Compact cars, Sedans, SUVs, stationwagons, electric, hybrid. |
| Best-selling car: | Golf |
| Website: | volkswagen-group.com |
Opel
Opel has always stood as the sensible and responsible choice when selecting a German car, and for good reason. Renowned for its practicality, reliability, and affordability, Opel’s vehicle range is tailored to meet the diverse needs of modern consumers. From compact city cars to spacious SUVs, Opel’s lineup has been designed to cater to everyday requirements, from urban commuting to family adventures.
If you’re in search of a purchase that not only offers peace of mind but also delivers reliability and practicality, then Opel stands as the ultimate choice.
| Founder: | Adam Opel |
| Founded In: | 1899 |
| Manufacturer: | Stellantis |
| Types of car: | Compact cars, Sedans, Crossovers, SUVs, stationwagons, electric. |
| Best-selling car: | Opel Astra |
| Website: | opel.com |
Smart
If you were born in the 1960s and envisioned a car of the future, it would be Smart. Smart has been designed to easily maneuver the hustle and bustle of urban cities. As a two-seater, their compact size allows them to glide through city streets and makes parking simple. Smart is renowned for its sustainable, green driving experience. Among the esteemed German car brands in our lineup, Smart is the only manufacturer that has entirely transitioned to the production of electric vehicles. Smart presents an excellent choice for urban dwellers seeking simplicity and style in their daily drives.
| Founder: | Nicolas Hayek |
| Founded In: | 1998 |
| Manufacturer: | Mercedez-Benz |
| Types of car: | Compact cars |
| Best-selling car: | Smart Fortwo |
| Website: | global.smart.com |
Why you can trust Luxe Digital? Our obsession with luxury car brands goes beyond mere fascination; it’s a passion that fuels the work that we do. At Luxe Digital, our team of petrolheads sift through the research, interviews, opinions, and reviews for the best cars in the world and ensure only the very best information makes it to our readers.
For this article, we’ve rounded up the best German car brands and dived deep into their backgrounds, engineering, and innovations. From the elegant curves of the bodywork to the cutting-edge technology under the hood, our team has immersed themselves in the world of these luxury automobiles. This article focuses solely on active car brands, omitting those that have discontinued production. Additionally, we’ve chosen not to include independent car tuning firms like Ruff, Brabus, and Masonry, as well as specialized custom high-performance brands such as Artega, Wiesmann, and Isdera.
Frequently asked questions about German cars
Choosing the best German car brand comes down to personal preferences. German car brands like BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, and Porsche stand out for their outstanding engineering, innovative designs, and exceptional driving feel. See our curated selection of the finest German car brands to help you find your next luxury ride.
Mercedes-Benz shines as the epitome of German Luxury automobiles. With its elegant designs, lavish interiors, and a legacy of sophistication, Mercedes-Benz embodies the essence of luxury on the road.
Who are the top 5 German automobile manufacturers?
The top 5 German automobile manufacturers are Volkswagen, BMW, Audi, Mercedes-Benz, and Porsche. Each one offers a unique blend of luxury and performance, making them trusted car choices.
German cars overall have an impressive reputation as being safe cars. The Euro NCAP is a voluntary vehicle safety certification that European vehicles must abide by. More safety tests are required to meet strict Euro NCAP standards compared to the Global NCAP. From our line-up, Mercedes-Benz stands tall when it comes to safety. Mercedes-Benz conducts extensive safety tests which include crash tests, simulations, crash avoidance, safety assist monitoring, and structural integrity testing.
