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True to its European roots, the drive of the 2012 Jetta remains confident and capable. The Jetta's steering is precise and responsive when corning, while its overall ride quality is comfortable and pleasing as the suspension does a good job of handling most road bumps and rough spots. That said, while its performance is quite capable, it's less sophisticated suspension (changed to a semi-independent torsion beam from an independent rear suspension) has somewhat diminished its previous level of athleticism.

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.

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.

With its softly tuned suspension, the 2011 Versa offers the kind of smooth ride more typically associated with larger cars. Both engines provide adequate power and the handling is competent enough to satisfy most drivers ... and all with excellent fuel economy. The best of the group in terms of driving, however, would be the 5-speed manual 1.6 and the 1.8 SL hatchback with the CVT.

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.

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