MotorMouths

The Mercedes-Benz AMG SLS is one of those cars that frightens other drivers right off the road. And yet this is one of the most civilized supercars around, with all the stunning performance you’d expect from a $200,000 aluminum-spaceframe supercar.

The Mazdaspeed3 a wicked weekend plaything that can be driven around at relaxed speeds with little drama or discomfort in an everyday environment. And, of course, we appreciate the amazingly versatile five-door hatch.

Priced at about $25,000, and capable of about 32 mpg in normal use, the 2010 VW GTI is arguably one of the most appropriate performance cars of the times.

The 2009 Z4 is expensive, but with its suave new bodywork and BMW’s wonderfully responsive chassis, this is one indulgence we’re quite happy to take.

Porsches have long had the reputation for everyday driveability, and the 2010 911 Turbo is no exception. It may have 500 hp, but unlike many “super” cars, the Turbo makes it easy to climb behind the wheel and simple to manage in the narrow lanes of small villages. A practical 500-hp sports car? Perhaps.

Improving technology lends a broad operating range to the new Nissan 370Z in every aspect, making it a usable everyday commuter as well as a fun track day car. Buyers will find they have purchased one of the best performance bargains on the market.

The 2010 RDX arrives with increased refinement, higher equipment levels and the sensible option of a front-wheel-drive model. And for a crossover, the RDX rocks the canyons.

For people seeking refinement in a vehicle that boasts all the trappings of fine living with none of the crass exhibitionism of huge bling-mobiles, the Lexus RX350 holds considerable attraction.

You can end up feeling self-righteous because of all the minimalist attributes of the Kia Soul, yet without enduring a lack of space, comfort or performance.

With an interior that compares favorably with Honda’s CR-V and puts the Toyota RAV4 to shame, and with curb appeal to spare, the 2010 Hyundai Tucson could do a lot better than the 2 percent of segment share it is currently enjoying.

The sense of privilege inside the leather-lined cabin is unmistakable, and the ZDX reinforces that impression with a plush, well-controlled ride, and the creamy propulsion provided by its sophisticated drivetrain.

Now that the 2011 Kia Sportage has sophisticated European styling, a tasteful interior and a host of standard and optional gadgets not usually expected at this price point, it makes a strong case for itself.