MotorMouths

Off-road enthusiasts in search of a truck that’s versatile enough straight from the factory to function both as a thrill machine on trails and a comfortable daily driver on the street will love the 2010 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor.

If you want a compact crossover that’s economical, efficient and doesn’t make you feel like you’re taking the kids to T-ball, there are options, and one of the best is the new 2010 Hyundai Tucson.

Quick-witted reflexes and yikes! acceleration aren’t ingredients typically found in the hybrid recipe book, but the M Hybrid is part of a new breed that promises to change the way we experience these fuel-minded machines.

The 2011 Lexus CT 200h is a good pick for shoppers who want Lexus prestige without sticker shock and steep fuel bills. It’s also a solid bet for those in search of a less ubiquitous, more high-end alternative to the frugal Prius.

Shoppers in this segment who want the most engaging driving experience — and who don’t mind some compromises with regard to cargo capacity and fuel economy — will be well served by this talented 2011 Mazda CX-9.

Mercedes-Benz handles luxury with relentless competence, and as one of the costlier models in its lineup, the CL550 is a poster child for luxury done right.

Sporty handling makes the 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander an ideal choice for the shopper seeking a vehicle that’s both practical for small families and entertaining to drive.

The 2011 Toyota Avalon’s generous dimensions and excellent safety ratings (the 2011 model earned the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety’s “Top Safety Pick” award) make it a shoo-in for those seeking safe, roomy family transportation

Drivers who want a family sedan that is less ubiquitous and a dash more high-rent than the usual suspects will appreciate the 2012 Volkswagen Passat.

The 2011 Volkswagen Touareg Hybrid is an excellent pick for shoppers seeking a luxury SUV that delivers V8 excitement with V6 frugality.

The C30 isn’t as sporty as the hot hatches it’s frequently shopped against, but it compensates by offering impeccable refinement. More “premium hatch” than “hot hatch,” this upscale, well-mannered Volvo will never make you regret choosing it as a daily driver.