5. 2006 Infiniti G35

Why young drivers like it: The G35 is a performer. With 280 hp coming from its powerful V6, the G35 sedan runs to 60 mph in just 5.9 seconds and finishes the quarter mile in just 14.7 seconds at 95 mph. For a demographic that likes to go fast, those are winning figures. The sleek styling doesn’t hurt, either, and a 2007 total redesign of the model will likely tighten Infiniti’s grip on the young, affluent driver.

What mom and dad think: This roomy car is a great value with loads of standard equipment — including bi-Xenon headlights and leather seats — that make it an excellent value play against BMW’s smaller and pricier 3 Series.