MotorMouths

With the 2012 328i, BMW managed to retain its driving virtues while drastically increasing fuel economy. Cabin technology stays on the cutting edge.

In some ways, this 2012 BMW 335i was a disappointment. A big part of BMW’s reputation has to do with its cars’ sport handling capabilities, something this car lacked. This particular 335i represents generally poor choices, not only in options but in what BMW is willing to let its cars become.

Performance tech in the 2013 BMW 640i Gran Coupe lets it be a luxury cruiser and a nimble sports car, while the cabin electronics give drivers unparalleled levels of help and entertainment.

With its robust technology roster, the 2012 BMW 650i makes for a very enjoyable and comfortable car to drive, while providing the latest in convenience.

BMW may have built its reputation on excellent driving characteristics, but the 2011 740i shows that the company is equally good at cabin tech. Performance tech shines with the direct-injection, twin-turbo engine. The suspension and handling are also a tour de force.

Most automakers use the additional energy provided by a hybrid system to get away with a smaller gasoline engine, thereby maintaining expected power but reducing fuel use. BMW looked at that extra power and thought, “excellent, we can make our cars go even faster!”

With its power and high-tech handling, the 2013 BMW M5’s potential feels wasted on public roads, yet its driver-assistance and cabin-tech systems are the best in the business for road trips and daily commutes.

The 2012 BMW X5 xDrive35i emphasizes onroad handling in the most high-tech SUV available, although it hasn’t conquered the curse of mediocre SUV fuel economy.

While impressive in its speed, handling, and cabin tech, the 2010 BMW X6 M is an expensive and impractical car, with all the weight of an SUV, but little of the interior space.

With a price around $30,000 and fuel economy around 30 mpg, the 2012 Buick LaCrosse represents luxury at a discount.

If it weren’t for the poor fuel economy, the 2011 Cadillac CTS-V Coupe would work well as both a weekend racer and a daily commute car, combining exceptional sport performance with practical cabin tech.

Strictly a luxury cruiser rather than a sport driver, the 2013 Cadillac XTS insulates you from the outside world while providing the latest in cabin tech.