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Under the hood of all of these newer Focus models is a 2.0 liter inline four-cylinder engine that pumps out 140 horsepower. Shoppers in California-level emission states can find the cleaner, PZEV-certified version of this engine that produces 130 horsepower. Transmission-wise, all can be found with either the standard 5-speed manual or the optional 4-speed automatic.

The 2011 Rogue's road manners is one of its strongest selling points. While small crossovers are supposed to drive like cars, this crossover ups the ante with a level of handling that's better than most sedans. The well-tuned suspension does an excellent job absorbing road bumps and imperfections as well as providing a smooth and stable highway drive. At the same time, it also provides solid body control, and when combined with its precise steering and ample four-cylinder power, the Rogue stands out among its peers on the road.

Audi A4, S4 and 4 DR LED tail lights pair at affordable prices.

The positives and negatives of the new Explorer - also the sticker and invoice prices.

The Mustang's cabin is attractive and the features plentiful. Some, like Sync's voice-activation system (which makes audio, phone and navigation operations a snap), are quite advanced and particularly useful. That said, the Mustang's interior isn't without some shortcomings.

Under the hood of the 3i Touring and Grand Touring models is the new 2.0-liter four-cylinder Skyactiv-G that pumps out 155 horsepower and 148 pound-feet of torque. These models come standard with a 6-speed manual transmission or an optional 6-speed automatic. Mazda estimates its gas mileage at 28 mpg city and 40 mpg on the highway for an automatic sedan and 27 and 39, respectively, with the manual. Fuel economy for the hatchback is estimated at 28 and 39 with the automatic and 27 and 38 with the manual.

Where the Cruze shines the brightest is on the road where it displays surprisingly agile handling while still being able to provide an overall comfortable and secure driving experience. Even the 2LT's and LTZ's sport suspension, while naturally providing a firmer ride, avoids becoming harsh.

The 2012 Kia Optima is certainly among the very best choices in the midsize sedan segment thanks to its sleek design, fun-to-drive road manners, powerful yet fuel efficient engines, attractive interior, long list of features and overall bang for the buck.

While not yet possessing the brand name pizzaz of its top rivals, this will likely change over time as the Genesis once again offers smooth and powerful engines, a comfortable ride, a luxurious interior, outstanding audio systems and top crash test scores. And one thing the Hyundai brand name does get recognition for is its generous warranty.

No matter the trim, the CC's cabin is lush with high-end features and world class workmanship. It's attractive design and use of high quality materials is actually on a par with more expensive luxury sedans.

Potential buyers should remember, however, that this is not your father's Cadillac with its famous smooth and cushy ride. Its sport-based suspension results, of necessity, in a firmer quality ride. Some may find that the ride of the Performance models is just too firm. What's more, the still firmer optional sport suspension can be downright harsh. Potential buyers should bear in mind that there is a tradeoff for all that athleticism.

Most drivers will likely be pleased with the performance of the 3.0 V6, while that of the base four-cylinder is adequate but more fuel-efficient (although it can get noisy when accelerated hard). Those looking for still more oomph in a family sedan will likely find the 3.5-liter V6 up to the task.