SlashGear’s September 2024 roundup picked ten cars for different kinds of “cool”: striking design, engaging performance, distinctive features, or some blend of the three. The list ranges from a compact all-wheel-drive hot hatch to a $250,000 electric performance sedan, so it is an editorial sampler—not a head-to-head ranking or a current buying guide. The specifications and prices below are figures reported in that 2024 article, not newly verified current-model information.
What makes these cars cool?
The roundup uses “cool” broadly. Some picks stand out for the way they drive; others for their styling, technology, luxury, or off-road character. That variety is the point: a Bronco and a Maserati grand tourer are not competing for the same job, and their inclusion does not imply that one is better overall.
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Below, each car is paired with the reason it made the list and the historical figures SlashGear reported. Prices, specifications, ratings, and availability can vary by model year, configuration, and market.
The 10 cars on the list
1. Nissan Z NISMO: a sharper, less practical Z
The Z NISMO was the list’s performance-focused take on Nissan’s sports car. SlashGear highlighted its styling and driving excitement, reporting 20 more horsepower than standard Z editions. That extra focus has a trade-off: the review also noted noise and limited everyday practicality, with the car’s price approaching $70,000 at the time.
#1 Best Overall
- 1:8 Large-Scale JDM Sports Car Model (4508PCS): Built with 4508 pieces in a 1:8 scale, this model recreates sleek body lines, a low stance, and an iconic orange finish. A bold and eye-catching display piece for desks, shelves, or collections.
- Authentic 2JZ Twin-Turbo Engine Detail: Faithfully recreates the legendary 2JZ twin-turbo engine with detailed molded parts. Includes a realistic engine bay, turbo system, and mechanical layout, highlighting the iconic JDM engineering. A must-have feature for car enthusiasts and collectors.
- Realistic Mechanical Functions: Features a working steering system, detailed drivetrain, and realistic cockpit interior. Multiple movable parts simulate real vehicle functions, adding playability and a more immersive building experience.
- Premium Building Experience: Made with high-quality building bricks, this model delivers an immersive and satisfying building experience. Every part is carefully designed, making it a great choice for car enthusiasts and adult collectors.
- Perfect for Display & Gift Giving: With detailed design, realistic proportions, and an enjoyable building process, this model is great for display, collection, and home décor. Also makes a perfect gift for car enthusiasts, JDM fans, and builders aged 14+.
2. Ford Bronco Heritage Edition: retro character with off-road roots
The Bronco Heritage Edition brings visual cues from classic Broncos to a modern off-road SUV. Reviewer Alex Hevesy said it “oozes character.” The reviewed vehicle had a 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6. SlashGear reported a $71,105 price and a planned limited run of 1,966 vehicles; those are historical claims from the 2024 roundup, not confirmation of present availability or pricing.
3. BMW Z4 M40i: a manual option for an increasingly rare kind of roadster
For the 2024 Z4 M40i, SlashGear singled out the availability of a six-speed manual alongside an eight-speed automatic. The article reported a twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six and 382 horsepower, and gave the car a 9/10 review score. Alex Hevesy called it possibly “my favorite car I’ve ever driven for an extended period of time.” Its appeal in this list is as much about the experience of driving it as its engine figures.
Rank #2
- 【4 Pcs Diecast Cars Set】Four different diecast car models have different types of bodies and colors, including sports cars/trucks/sedans/racing cars, all measuring 4.9 × 2 × 1.4 inches. The standard 1:36 ratio, open doors, and bright color combinations faithfully capture the eternal aesthetics while reflecting vibrant the vitality of racing sports!
- 【Race Real Experience】Our 1:36 alloy model car adopts a double door mode, allowing kids to better observe the internal structural details of the race car toys, and incorporates high-quality elastic tires,these diecast cars high-performance wheels provide enhanced traction, allowing smooth operation across multiple surfaces including hard floors and textured fabrics.
- 【Double Packaging Box Design】There are 4 independent mini boxes in the box for easy storage and sharing. All boxes are neatly placed in a decorative gift collection box, which is perfect for giving a complete set of gifts or dividing into smaller packages for multiple children.
- 【Pull Back Cars Toy】Push car without batteries！Our car models can withstand wear and tear during daily play, and the surface paint can last for a long time without fading or peeling off Featuring a classic sports car exterior design and die cast cars that have been tested for shock absorption and pressure resistance.It is very durable. Accompany kids for long time activities.
- 【Ideal Gift For Kids 3 4 5 6 7 Year】Our 4pack car toys perfectly combines the joyful interaction of multiplayer games with the immersive experience of single player games. Not only does it have a precise and beautiful gift box, but it is also a birthday gift and Christmas gifts for son and grandson.
4. Land Rover Defender 130: room and refinement alongside capability
The 2024 Defender 130 makes the case that an off-road-oriented SUV can also emphasize space and premium features. In an appropriate configuration, it can seat up to eight. SlashGear listed P300, P400, and P500 power outputs and a starting price of $69,100 in its 2024 article. Those figures describe the roundup’s period claims, not today’s lineup or price.
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5. Lexus GX: a redesigned SUV built around four-wheel drive
The 2024 Lexus GX brought a redesigned third generation to the list. SlashGear highlighted its four-wheel drive, Torsen locking limited-slip differential, towing capacity, and technology, and awarded it a 9/10 review score. The roundup reported an article-era starting price of $64,250. Its “cool” factor is less about sports-car agility than the combination of SUV capability and luxury equipment.
Rank #3
- Doors Open
- Pullback Action
- Die Cast Metal Body
- PULL BACK ACTION WITH FREE ROLLING WHEELS
6. Toyota GR Corolla Circuit: compact, turbocharged, and track-minded
The GR Corolla Circuit is the hot-hatch counterpoint to the list’s larger and more expensive performance cars. SlashGear gave it 10/10 and highlighted its turbocharged three-cylinder engine, all-wheel drive, and limited-slip differentials. The article described output as more than 300 horsepower and pricing as starting around $38,000 at the time. Its appeal is concentrated in a compact package designed for engaging driving, rather than luxury or off-road utility.
7. Maserati GranTurismo Trofeo: a grand tourer with a broad brief
The 2024 GranTurismo Trofeo was presented as a car that could handle routine driving as well as spirited back-road runs or track use. Reviewer Dave McQuilling said, “you can use it as a daily driver, you can get the most out of any backroads you encounter, and you can run it hard around a track whenever the opportunity presents itself.” That versatility is the central idea behind its place in the roundup.
Rank #4
- PREMIUM QUALITY: Constructed with durable die-cast metal body, featuring clear windows, detailed interior, and precision-engineered components
- Pullback Action
- FUNCTIONAL FEATURES: Opening doors and pull-back motor action provide interactive play experience while maintaining collector-grade detail
- PERFECT DISPLAY SIZE: Compact 5-inch length makes it ideal for showcasing, with proportionate dimensions that capture the iconic sports car's essence
- COLLECTIBLE VALUE: Meticulously crafted replica perfect for die-cast car enthusiasts and Porsche fans, suitable for ages 3 and up
8. Mercedes-Benz CLE Coupe: luxury performance and MBUX
The CLE Coupe joined the list for its blend of luxury and performance, including Mercedes-Benz’s MBUX infotainment system. SlashGear gave it a 10/10 review score and reported 255 horsepower for a base model and 375 horsepower for the CLE 450 4MATIC Coupe. Those are the roundup’s 2024 figures; they should not be read as specifications for every CLE configuration or later model year.
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One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware match9. Genesis GV80: striking design and a large OLED display
The roundup included the 2025 Genesis GV80 even though it was published in 2024: it was a 2025 model reviewed within that year. SlashGear emphasized its styling, available powertrains, and 27-inch OLED display, and reported a starting price of $58,700 at the time. Its appeal here is a mix of luxury-SUV presence and a prominent technology feature.
Best Value
- BUILD A RACING LEGEND – Boys and girls ages 9 years old and up can construct the LEGO Speed Champions Porsche 911 GT3 RS Super Car (77239) building set and collect this iconic sports car model
- AUTHENTIC PORSCHE DETAILS – Young builders can recreate the real-life vehicle's signature elements including the famous rear wing, air intake features on the hood, distinctive headlights, and novelty rims
- 1 PORSCHE DRIVER MINIFIGURE – Kids can place the driver minifigure with helmet and red Porsche Track Day Experience outfit behind the wheel to stage their own track-day racing action
- BUILD, RACE & DISPLAY – Young builders can stage epic track showdowns with their Porsche toy car, then showcase it as premium decor on a shelf or bedside table
- GIFT IDEA FOR MODEL CAR FANS – Makes an awesome birthday present for boys and girls who love sports cars, building toys, and model car kits, or for adult car-model collectors
10. Lucid Air Sapphire: extreme electric-sedan performance
The Air Sapphire represents the list’s most dramatic performance claims. SlashGear awarded it 10/10 and reported 1,234 horsepower at peak power, a 0–60 mph time under two seconds, a 204 mph top speed, more than 400 miles of range, and a $250,000 price. These are figures quoted in the September 2024 roundup, not independently verified current specifications. The Sapphire’s proposition is very different from the GR Corolla’s: high-output electric luxury-sedan performance rather than compact, all-wheel-drive hot-hatch fun.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.How the picks differ
| Car | What makes it stand out in the roundup | Best understood as |
|---|---|---|
| Nissan Z NISMO | More power than standard Z editions; styling and driving excitement | Performance-focused sports car |
| Ford Bronco Heritage Edition | Classic-inspired design and off-road character | Retro-styled off-road SUV |
| BMW Z4 M40i | Six-speed manual option, inline-six, and roadster driving experience | Two-seat roadster |
| Land Rover Defender 130 | Off-road capability, premium features, and seating for up to eight in an appropriate configuration | Large, utility-oriented luxury SUV |
| Lexus GX | Four-wheel-drive hardware, towing capability, and technology | Luxury SUV with off-road credentials |
| Toyota GR Corolla Circuit | Turbocharged three-cylinder, all-wheel drive, and limited-slip differentials | Track-minded hot hatch |
| Maserati GranTurismo Trofeo | Daily-driving, back-road, and track-use versatility | Grand tourer |
| Mercedes-Benz CLE Coupe | Luxury-performance mix and MBUX infotainment | Luxury coupe |
| Genesis GV80 | Styling, available powertrains, and a 27-inch OLED display | Technology-forward luxury SUV |
| Lucid Air Sapphire | High-output electric performance and headline acceleration claims | High-performance electric luxury sedan |
The list is most useful as a set of distinct ideas about what makes a car memorable. Choose the GR Corolla or Z NISMO if compact or sports-car performance is the draw; look to the Bronco, Defender, or GX for different interpretations of SUV character; and consider the GV80 or CLE for a stronger luxury-and-technology emphasis. The Air Sapphire and GranTurismo Trofeo sit at the high-performance end, but serve very different formats and use cases.
For the original reviews and the roundup’s full context, see SlashGear’s September 2, 2024 list of the coolest cars it reviewed. Verify current specifications, pricing, and availability with the relevant manufacturer or dealer before making a buying decision.
Quick Recap
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