MotorMouths

The Ford Escapes new engines offer better performance than the competition, the interior is roomy and comfortable, high-tech gadgetry works well, and it even looks cool. All of this comes with a premium price in a competitive segment.

Improvements to the 2012 Honda CR-V’s interior, cargo configurability, ride quality and standard-equipment list should keep the compact crossover atop car shoppers’ must-test lists.

The 2011 Sonata’s radical new design is the first shot across the bows of Toyota’s and Honda’s flagships. While those Japanese sedans’ style fades into any parking lot in a sea of sameness, the new Sonata will turn heads.

The 2012 Kia Optima Hybrid doesn’t deliver top mileage, but if you’re shopping for a hybrid sedan, it’s as competent a player as you’ll find on the market.

The 2012 Volkswagen Golf R certainly packs performance, but I’m not sure if the packaging or price make much sense outside a very small niche of shoppers.

The Sonata Hybrid’s stand-out looks may just draw buyers who’ve been hesitant to get a hybrid sedan before because the options available just didn’t have bold enough styling.

The Volkswagen Touareg packs most of the traits luxury automakers have been telling the public they want for decades, like a quiet ride, smooth acceleration and dazzling displays.

Any vehicle that can keep me as happy, as free of back pain and as entertained as the 2012 GMC Terrain did for a thousand miles should win an award. Even with just a few minor upgrades, it should remain popular in 2012.

It’s not the cheapest or fastest three-row crossover on the market, but Chevy is winning over customers with the Traverse’s styling. Add in its utility and relative nimbleness, and there are even more legitimate reasons to consider it.

The MDX’s driver comfort, fun-to-drive nature and surprising value keep it competitive in a growing segment. But the company couldn’t make the MDX any bigger, and it’s a snug fit for families — three rows of seats notwithstanding.

There’s so much Kia gets right with the 2012 Sportage that it’s almost too easy to overlook its few shortcomings. With its low price, standard features, high-quality interior and head-turning looks, I expect it to do well, despite its poor ride and sluggish engine.

If you’re looking for a three-row crossover, the 2012 Toyota Highlander is as sound a pick as you can get. It’s affordable and it has a quiet, comfortable ride with a family-friendly interior.