MotorMouths

The 2011 BMW 5-Series Sports Sedan offers a mind-boggling mix of power and technology that’s sure to leave you asking, “how did they do that?”

The BMW X6 Hybrid delivers range-topping performance with better-than-expected fuel economy. That’s the kind of eco-trickery we can really enjoy. But a 20 percent improvement in mileage doesn’t fit our standard definition of eco-friendly.

As far as crossovers go, the Mercedes R350 is one of the slickest of the bunch – and it looks about a million times better than before. Starting at over $50,000, it is clearly not for everyone, as sales have indicated in the past.

Just as the Corvette ZR-1 subliminally influences the masses into mundane Malibus, the Silverado and Sierra HD’s best-in-class numbers and ultra-torquey diesel will undoubtedly put more butts in standard Silverados and Sierras. Halo cars come in all shapes and sizes.

With this third edition to the Cadillac CTS lineup, the General is proving once again that they are serious about building great cars. To say this CTS Coupe is the best Cadillac we have ever driven bears it out.

The Cruze is a terrific small car, but we sure hope GM knows that it can’t be “all things to all people” any more with just four core brands, only one of which is aimed at Joe America.

No longer are Hyundais appealing primarily because of their rational low price and high feature content. With the introduction of the Sonata, Hyundai has shown that it can inject passion into a point A-to-point B family sedan.

We found the Scion tC a fun package to drive that offers loads of personalization options. It’s a vast improvement over the old car, which had the look but none of the go or refinement.

You’re a buyer for this Mulsanne if you appreciate finer things. This case of rolling art, as beautiful inside as it is from afar, is one of the finest automobiles in existence today.

We thought the Cadillac CTS coupe was the best Cadillac we have ever driven. Until we drove the CTS-V Coupe. It’s become the second best. With a powerful engine, great handling and excellent interior, it has all you could possibly ask for in a high performance coupe.

If our unscientific poll is even remotely accurate, Nissan has a hit on its hands with the Juke. It combines just the right amount of sport and utility in an offbeat package. Its looks will likely turn away as many as it impresses.

MINI Coopers have long had a reputation for providing the most fun you can have in a car with your clothes on. The new MINI Cooper S Countryman ALL4 (a mouthful) continues that practice and can take you more places to boot.