Driven

COUPES DU JOUR

BY JIM GORZELANY

Today’s coupes combine refined styling with enhanced driving dynamics for those who need only two doors.

While most of the motoring world still prefers four-door sedans and SUVs, there remains a small but steady market for two-door coupes.

Typically this segment is populated by singles, for whom ultimate utility takes a back seat to style and performance, and also by empty nesters looking to spice things up after the kids have left home.

Here’s a look at four of the latest sporty coupes that retain elements of comfort for those who want a bit of flash, but don’t want to drive a too-punishing sports car.

Infiniti G37 • Essentially a sleeker, smoother and more luxurious version of the Nissan Z sports coupe, the G37 still delivers superlative performance. Its 3.7-liter V6 is equipped with a six-speed manual transmission or five-speed automatic gearbox. A sport-tuned suspension and four-wheel Active Steer system are offered to enhance the already impressive handling abilities. A Preview Braking function is included with the optional laser-guided Intelligent Cruise Control, which pre-pressurizes the brake lines in anticipation of a panic stop.

MSRP: $34,250

Audi A5 • This new luxury coupe shares platforms and components with the A4 sedan, but is more aggressive-looking. A 3.2-liter V6 delivers spirited performance, with a choice of a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission. The “quattro” all-wheel-drive system is standard and rear-biased for improved cornering on dry pavement. Six airbags are standard, as is a long list of amenities. A quicker and costlier S5 version is also available.

MSRP: $39,900

Maserati GranTurismo • A strikingly designed four-passenger coupe, this exotic auto packs a powerful Ferrari-designed 4.2-liter V8 under its far-reaching hood. Like classic grand touring models, the emphasis is as much on comfort and style as it is on performance. A six-speed automatic transmission is the only available gearbox. A nearly perfect front-to-rear weight ratio contributes to its cornering prowess.

MSRP: $110,000 (est.)

Volvo C30 • This sleek hatchback borrows styling cues— particularly in its rear end treatment—from Volvo’s classic P1800 ES coupe from the early ’70s. It packs a 2.5-liter turbocharged five-cylinder engine with a choice of a six-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission. Performance is sporty, and the Version 2.0 adds a stiffer suspension for quicker handling. There’s also an extensive Custom Build program on the Volvo website.

MSRP: $22,700