MotorMouths

The McLaren accomplishes what it sets out to do, namely providing an incredible driving experience while increasing usability. Could you drive the MP4-12C daily? You sure could. Would you want to? We would, gladly.

The FR-S is about driving dynamics that are some of the best we’ve experienced, combined with an affordable price and a total package that can be used for both the weekday commute and the weekend track session. Scion nailed this one.

Like at Porsche, we couldn’t care less what Maserati needs to sell to pay the bills, as long as it continues to build cars like the GranTurismo MC.

You might be tempted to think of the new base-level A8 as something of an A8 Lite; a car that offers less for less money. But you’d be wrong. We like the new entry-level A8 for reducing the price without sacrificing performance.

The Carrera GTS is a sensible intermediary step on the Porsche Pyramid of Performance. With 408 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, the Carrera GTS slots in neatly between the 385 horses of the Carrera S and the 435 found in the GT3.

Once you drive the ML63, you’ll never turn back. It hits all the right buttons for someone who needs a do-it-all utility vehicle and has a little coin to splurge on some luxury. It also has more torque than a Lamborghini Aventador.

It’s hard not to love the XJ’s dual-sided personality — all sports sedan one minute and luxury cruiser the next. Does that nature finally put the XJ head and shoulders above the S-Class, 7 Series, and A8?

It’s the engine that really makes the SL63 AMG, but those looking for a little more connection to the road will be disappointed. Overall, we wished the SL63 was a bit more involving to drive.

The TT RS is one of the most engaging, best driving Audis to hit the road since the UR-Quattro. And that’s something to be excited about.

We’re convinced there’s some kind of trickery going on with the Jaguar XJ Supersport. It’s simply unnatural that a car this large can feel so small when it’s hustling down twisty two-lanes.

Much of what made the original RDX feel special — the firm ride, turbo antics, and crisp handling — are gone from this 2013 version, but don’t despair. The new RDX is more mature for a more mature buyer.

The Panamera S Hybrid is not only be the most fuel-efficient vehicle Porsche has ever offered, but also the fastest production hybrid vehicle in the world. We’re in a brave new world, and it’s one Porsche is embracing.