MotorMouths

On the surface the new Accord seems only moderately new, but closer inspection reveals impressive upgrades and new features that add to many already segment-leading qualities, helping put it, as always, in contention for top-of-the-pack status.

The MazdaSpeed3 delivers horsepower and handling, not to mention great looks and an interior well above many of its competitors. With few reasonably priced performance vehicles on the road, the MazdaSpeed3 is, thankfully, a hard-core hot hatch that delivers.

Toyota is taking a big step with this third-gen Prius, in an attempt at moving it from a niche market science project to a mainstream auto.

Few cars are as rewarding to drive as the Civic Si – and there are even fewer for this money. Plus, it still doubles as a perfect daily driver. The Civic Si now stands very much alone in the front-drive performance coupe segment.

The Cayenne S Hybrid is a functional yet sporty utility hybrid. Plus it has something else people love even more… a Porsche badge.

The JX’s drive is a bit less inspired than we’ve come to expect from Infiniti, but factor in the price, luxury, fuel economy, interior space and features and the newest three-row luxury crossover is instantly the best.

With stand-out styling and that big 40-mpg number, Hyundai won’t have any trouble bringing customers into dealerships, and with an impressive interior and solid pricing, dealers should find it equally easy to send folks on their way in a new Elantra.

There’s a very real possibility that the QX56 could go from a niche player to the segment leader. It’s certainly got the goods to do so. Without a doubt, this is the best looking full-sized luxury SUV on the planet.

Subaru’s goal of offering more interior space, better fuel-economy and a more attractive sticker price easily holds true on base Legacy models. Sadly, the top-level 3.6R is a bit disappointing.

The Hyundai Genesis is a well engineered vehicle, offering a balanced package of luxury, performance, comfort and price.

The 5 Series Gran Turismo offers tremendous luxury, excessive amounts of power and the sort of handling you’d expect from a BMW.

The Prius v lets the car that started the hybrid movement stay on top of it, helping to meet the growing needs of some current Prius drivers, while expanding the appeal of hybrid technology to those shopping for anything from a hatchback, to a wagon, to a crossover.