MotorMouths

The Mustang V-6 is not as much a sports car as it is a highway cruiser. If you look at this as a comfortable way to soak up the world around you, then have fun with the quick acceleration, set the stereo to the right station, and enjoy the experience of open-air driving.

If pricing is as competitive as Ford says, you get best-in-class capability and a faster truck, with improved fuel economy and more cool options. That makes the 2011 F-Series Super Duty a great value, and should prove a tough one to beat.

The XC60 is Volvo’s best-selling XC. That’s not too surprising, considering the small luxury crossover’s good looks inside and out, loads of safety features, and excellent power.

Given its utilitarian origins and mission, models like the 2013 Mercedes G63 AMG we just hustled around continue to make very little sense, but remain a heck of a lot of fun.

The 2010 Mazdaspeed3 offers fun on twisty roads at a bargain price, good looks (although we’re still trying to get used to the new nose), and the practical functionality of a hatchback.

Hyundai has done a fine job once again with the Santa Fe Sport’s styling and overall value (the brand’s strong suits), but continues to struggle with suspension and steering.

The size and price range categories the 2012 Rio plays in are highly competitive, and standing out can be a real challenge. But the Rio 5-door pulls it off with a combination of power, fuel economy, value, and great looks.

We are happy to say the 2011 GMC Sierra Denali 3500HD isn’t just good on paper; it’s equally good in real life. But can it hold its own against the new King Ranch? For those who like the King Ranch’s unique style, the Denali is probably a bit on the dull side.

The 2011 Ford F-150 lineup has a lot to offer, namely more power, capability, and better fuel economy. But for the EcoBoost to be a success, truck guys have to become convinced that this V-6 has the capability and the durability to be a better option than a V-8.

The new Wrangler stays true to the model’s roots, but now it’s a lot more fun to drive on-road.

Ford proved that the Raptor is much more capable than perceptions may suggest, and improved its off-road abilities even more for 2012. Yet it is still a great daily driver. It isn’t cheap, but it has a lot to offer.

The Ridgeline still offers what Honda buyers like: sport/utility interior and trucklike bed, in a well-executed package. The styling is not universally liked, the engine could use more power, and it could certainly benefit from a six-speed automatic.