“Cleanly styled, intelligently priced and nice to drive, the Equinox takes GM to a new level,” says Assistant Editor, Jil McIntosh; she drives the four-cylinder model which she says is a better engine than the available V6.

For 2010, the Nissan Frontier pickup adds new side and curtain airbags on all models, and electronic stability control on all V6-equipped models. All box lengths are now six feet. MSRPs range from $24,098 to $38,498.

For 2010, the Hyundai Accent improves its fuel efficiency thanks to a “smart” alternator, low-friction engine oil and an economy indicator. The Accent comes as a four-door sedan or a two-door hatchback. MSRPs range from $13,599 to $18,999.

Whitehorse to Inuvik:The extreme winter conditions on the Dempster Highway from Dawson City to Inuvik proved to be a real driving challenge, but the diminutive Smart Fortwo was up to the task, reports Senior Editor Paul Williams.

For 2010, Jeep Libertys receive whiplash-reducing active front head restraints, Stain Repel fabric, a flat-folding front passenger seat, heated mirrors, and Interactive Decel Fuel Shut-Off, which cuts the fuel supply during deceleration. MSRPs range from $28,295 to $32,295.

Replacing the Jetta Wagon TDI, the Golf Wagon TDI has a lower starting price, reports Editor-in-chief, Greg Wilson. Its turbo diesel engine offers great fuel economy while its cargo area is the largest in its class, he says.

For 2010, the Mini offers two new trim packages to celebrate Mini’s 50th anniversary: the Mini 50 Camden and Mini 50 Mayfair, available on both the Mini Cooper and Mini Cooper S. 2010 MSRPs range from $22,800 to $38,400.

In 1961, renowned car designer, Raymond Loewy, was recruited to design an “image” car for Studebaker to help boost sales, but his creation, the Avanti, fell victim to Studebaker’s serious financial difficulties.

The Saab 900 sedan and convertible were renamed the 9-3 in 1999. Consumer Reports rates reliability as well below-average, but low resale values make this Swedish premium car a bargain, if you do your homework, says Contributing Editor, Chris Chase.

How does the interior of author Michael Clark’s 23-year-old Chrysler Fifth Avenue compare to modern interiors? Don’t snicker too much! The design and technology may be dated, some features have proven their functionality over the long term.

Both of these Canadian-made compact sedans are proving to be capable performers in Ottawa’s sub-zero temperatures, despite the fact that the Civic DX-G doesn’t come with electronic stability control. Heated seats would also be nice, say the authors.

Redesigned for 2010, the Hyundai Tucson has a powerful new four-cylinder engine that replaces both the previous four and six-cylinder engines. The Tucson also offers brand new styling and more features. MSRPs range from $22,999 to $34,449.

You’d have to out of your mind to drive a Smart Fortwo from Kelowna to Inuvik in the middle of winter, but call us crazy, we volunteered to do just that. Managing Editor Grant Yoxon reports on the first leg of the journey to Whitehorse in the Yukon.

Twelve laps around Estoril race track in Portugal was enough to convince author James Bergeron that the sporty new 2011 BMW 335is will appeal to 3 Series enthusiasts who want an even more exciting driving experience.

If you’re looking to maximize the efficiency, reliability and performance of your diesel-powered light truck, this book will help direct you past many of the pitfalls that can hinder the progress of such a project, says reviewer Russell Purcell.

Transformed from a “traditional” body-on-frame SUV into a unibody vehicle, the 2011 Kia Sorento is less truck-like and offers more power and better fuel economy from its new four and six-cylinder engines, reports Contributing Editor, Chris Chase.

The decision by Kia Motors to build its first North American vehicle manufacturing facility in West Point, Georgia was welcomed by a community hard hit by unemployment. Over 43,000 applicants applied for the 2,400 jobs at the plant.