MotorMouths

While it is one potent beast, the 2013 GT500 is also more livable and drivable than ever before. SVT has improved this steed in every way.

If the Fiesta’s excellent fuel economy, technical competency and many features aren’t enough for you, we think the price tag will seal the deal.

The Mercedes-Benz ML63 AMG is one of a handful of highly competent, high-performance, luxury SUVs that can handle any weather or social situation. Now it’s even faster, fuel efficient and pleasing to the eye.

The phrase “surprisingly good” aptly sums up the all-new 2010 Lincoln MKT. Muscular yet confidently quiet and filled with techie gee-whiz highlights, the MKT easily fulfills Lincoln’s luxury mandate.

Because of near-rabid enthusiast interest in the 5.0-liter, expect mostly GT sales at first. But the V6 offers more performance than many will ask for, can be outfitted with all the comfort and style features, and costs less to purchase, license, insure and feed.

The 2012 Honda CR-V has the feel of a passenger car and the function of a minivan, with a mix of proven mechanicals, perfect sizing, reasonable feature content and affordable pricing.

A proven best-seller in Europe, the Fiesta packs value and features in abundance. Now packaged for U.S. sales, the Fiesta is remarkably roomy and nabs 40 mpg on the freeway.

Ford completes its years-long Mustang makeover with superb new V6 and V8 engines and 6-speed transmissions. Accompanying chassis tweaks and new electronics confirm the Mustang as a mainstream sportster for adults.

Above all, the QX is about providing luxurious transportation for four, with room for more on occasion plus plenty of gear. In fact, it excels at this.

Besides being the best at what it does, the Wrangler is also affordable, and fuel-economy ratings have improved. If the Wrangler has always intrigued you, but you thought it wasn’t practical or economical enough for everyday use, you might want to reconsider that assessment.

The phrase “surprisingly good” aptly sums up the all-new 2010 Lincoln MKT. Muscular yet confidently quiet and filled with techie gee-whiz highlights, the MKT easily fulfills Lincoln’s luxury mandate.

Functionally the Infiniti M series fulfills all needs; it’s a sweet-driving, powerful luxury sedan. Probably its biggest drawback is in perceived status.