MotorMouths

In Aston Martin nomenclature, the DBS is the top of the line and the Volante is the convertible. While the DBS coupe is a direct competitor to the Ferrari 599 GTB, the Volante exists in its own superexclusive sphere, a classic droptop front-engine V-12 sports car.

The new 911 Turbo’s personality is dominated by the motor’s capacity to crush your skull against the headrest during exuberant acceleration.

The redesigned Audi S4 is superior to its predecessor in just about every other way. It’s quicker and less expensive, it gets better mileage and it finally offers handling that challenges BMW.

The Mercedes SL63 AMG, oddly enough, is a 518-horsepower retractable-roof two-seater for people who don’t need to show off.

In the wonderful world where a $200,000 car is deemed discrete, the Bentley Continental Supersports could be viewed as a shrewd extravagance.

The brand-new, 6.2-liter SOHC V-8 is finally ready, and the SVT guys have had a chance to massage it for Raptor duty. The “six-two” is a $3000 option on top of the Raptor’s $38,995 base price, but this truck deserves nothing less.

If you gradually realize that you need an automotive Leatherman tool, the Mitsubishi Outlander is the crossover that carries out its practical obligations with a small, gratifying dose of car-geek credibility.

The GLK is a fully realized Mercedes, with a powertrain fit for the S-Class. On paper, the GLK is an expensive RAV4, but behind the wheel it’s a C350 Sport with a $5,000 discount.

My problem with the Tucson is that it needs a hook, a way to stand out from the crossover crowd and justify its price.

A hybrid Escalade is like alcohol-free Scotch, a hemp-banded Rolex, a cinematically subtle Jerry Bruckheimer movie. With the hybrid labels plastered all over the thing, it’s as if G.M. is telling the Escalade it should be ashamed of itself.