MotorMouths

The best part of the new V-6 Ford Mustang? That you can get over 300 hp for so little money.

Drive the revised C350 Sport and you’ll enjoy the subtle improvements in its performance and quality. Just invest in quality winter tires and a good roadside assistance package.

The Ford Mustang isn’t on par with those legendary sports cars, but it delivers performance that’s so close, and grins to match, for nearly half the price that a GT can’t be overlooked by anyone with a performance-oriented heartbeat.

The Forte 5-door certainly warrants a test drive. Even in its most basic form, it’s a fun, good-looking hauler that should be popular with younger buyers. Perhaps a little less engaging that its rivals, this hatchback is strong on value.

The Cayenne Turbo is much more resolved than the original. With more power, performance and better fuel mileage, Porsche looks to be adding a more positive chapter to the Cayenne’s already lengthy history.

Those few who mourn the old Sorento and its simple, rugged construction will certainly be outweighed by the much larger group of customers looking for a great value on a good looking, well-equipped crossover.

The E550 Convertible is a great car. It will inevitably spend most of its life being a trophy, rarely topping the speed limit, never pushing the limits of the driver or the car itself. So kudos to Mercedes-Benz for making this car much better than it ever needed to be.

Ultimately, the C250 Coupe will appeal to those wanting the solidity, brand strength and good manners that Mercedes-Benz offers in the popular sedan. Definitely worth a drive.

The Avenger is a more complete package now than ever before, and has the interior, handling and refinement that are the equal of virtually any mid-sizer out there.

For those who can get past the challenging exterior design and lack of low-end pop, the V6-powered Panamera and Panamera 4 are legitimate contenders in the luxury and near-luxury class.

So a tad over $50,000 all-in for a safe, stylish, torque-happy European sports sedan that’s not an Audi or BMW – and priced significantly below both. The 2012 Volvo S60 R-Design is far from a no-brainer decision, but it’s one that our hearts can get behind.

The Dodge Challenger always had the personality, but now it has the performance – both in a straight line and in the twisties – to run with the Chevy and Ford. And with only a minor price increase too.