MotorMouths

With its 2011 redesign, the Hyundai Sonata is a fully realized family sedan without the deficiencies of the past. It offers a pleasant driving experience with capable handling, a roomy and inviting interior, one fuel-efficient engine and eyegrabbing looks.

With a smooth ride, lots of interior room, and willing power, the Hyundai Genesis is a viable alternative to established luxury brands.

The Ford Edge offers striking styling and is a far more efficient vehicle than a traditional SUV. It’s a smarter choice than a truck-based SUV, unless you are towing heavy trailers or frequently driving over rugged terrain.

The Mazda CX-7 is now priced in line with the best-sellers in the category, and its sporty driving character gives it a competitive advantage over similarly equipped rivals.

The 2010 Chevy Equinox is sized like a midsize and priced like a compact. It offers useful interior space, as well as class-leading fuel economy.

The Chevy Traverse is an excellent family vehicles and is reasonably priced. If you’re buying a family mover, these vehicles are more stylish than a minivan and more practical and efficient than a truck-based SUV.

Priced $1,600 to $2,300 below key midsize competitors, the 2011 Hyundai Sonata continues to offer value in the midsize class, but now it’s better-looking, more fuel-efficient and more fun to drive than ever before.

The BMW X5 delivers a lot of what a family needs. It can fit five comfortably or seven in a pinch, offers useful cargo space and provides all-wheel-drive security for foul weather or basic off-road needs. Plus, it is sportier than just about any competitor.

The Toyota Highlander offers generous room for people and cargo, a choice of powertrains, ample performance and good fuel economy. It’s a wise choice for active families.

Among full-size sport-utilities, the Ford Expedition stands apart with its superior driving comfort and utility package. It is one of the best vehicles for family vacation travel on the American road.

The 2010 Lexus HS 250h will appeal to families who want a luxury car but also want to look and go green. It can carry five people comfortably and offers a more refined interior and responsive powertrain than the Prius.

Combine the Suzuki Kizashi’s classy interior and better handling than you’d expect in a midsize sedan, and you can see why America might get to know this Japanese auto brand.