Our annual best driver’s car contest always brings some surprises, including a 2.1 tonne super saloon from Audi and a sub-900kg Peugeot which highlights the diversity of the competition.

Although the cars ranked below are not direct competitors, each has been chosen for excelling in driving ability. Some, however, outperform the others.

Our team of road testers; Matt Prior, James Disdale, Richard Lane, Illya Verpraet and Andrew Frankel, will provide first-hand experience of what it’s like to pilot each of these cars at the limit.

Below is a selection of what we believe are the best driver’s cars, unmatched in their capabilities on both road and track.

1. Lamborghini Huracan Sterrato

Judges were impressed by the unique feel of the Lamborghini Huracán Sterrato, which retained a sense of control without sacrificing everything for adhesion. However, there was some concern about its performance on the track, as cars that perform exceptionally on the road may not always deliver the same standard on the track.

Surprisingly, the V10-powered Sterrato performed well on the track at Anglesey, demonstrating confidence-inspiring handling. Even with its 601bhp, it was highly adjustable and exploitable, earning praise from the judges for its precision hooliganism.

Despite not being a track-day car, the Sterrato excelled with its specific brand of performance.

Lamborghini Huracan Sterrato review

2. Ariel Atom 4R

On wet test roads, the Ariel Atom 4R demonstrated its exceptional speed, although it was challenging to exploit its full potential. With the added benefits of ABS and traction control, it provided a reassuring driving experience, despite the sense that it was designed for more and simply waiting for the right moment to shine.