MotorMouths

The all-new 2011 Kia Sorento compact crossover utility vehicle (CUV), is nothing like the old Sorento but very much like the leaders in the class — the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V and Ford Escape.

Subaru starts with its sub-$20,000 compact Impreza. Similarities end there. The WRX STI version coaxes 305 horsepower out of the same basic power plant. On the road, the STI has taut handling, but without the punishing ride that sometimes accompanies stiffly sprung performance cars.

What sets the new Range Rover Sport apart, along with its supercharged sibling, is the pavement performance. For a tall, almost tippy-looking vehicle, the new Range Rover Sport has near-sports-sedan handling and performance.

There’s something to be said for longevity. If you stick with a project long enough, you’re bound to get it right eventually. That’s the thought that remains after spending time with the 2011 Ford Mustang. With this one, the leftover criticisms are nitpicks.

The driver and three passengers are cosseted in firm but supportive seats, with tasteful luxury surroundings and a supple, comfortable ride, although the Mercedes-Benz E convertible is no handling slouch on twisting roads.

For people with the bucks or the ability to handle the monthly payments, the Audi A7 is the obvious choice for owners who like to be noticed. But it also boasts luxury amenities galore and plenty of comfort for four.

In a word, the 2011 Audi A8 is a superb automobile with sensuous styling that nevertheless will not necessarily dazzle the hoi polloi.

Bentley claims a zero-to-60 mph acceleration time of 5.1 seconds and a top speed of 184. Nevertheless, the Mulsanne also has a sedate, stately side that easily qualifies it as a chauffeur-driven conveyance, should you so choose.

The 2011 SLS AMG gull-wing coupe, a $200,000-plus two-seater that is certain to get the juices flowing among the automotive cognoscent. It’s an exhilarating, balanced sports car that can be flat-cornered around a road-racing track all day.

The new Bentley Continental Supersports is a handsome powerhouse. Simply punch the pedal and it rockets forward, almost as if you were taking off in a fighter jet.