It may not be the fire-breathing Turbo S, but the V6 Porsche Cayenne is great to drive, reports Assistant Editor Jil McIntosh. But while it’s sporty, opt for the automatic transmission, she recommends.

Freshened styling and an upgraded interior are new for 2009, but the big story remains the B-Class’ generous passenger and cargo space, says reviewer Gerry Frechette. The turbo model is “the way to go if the budget allows,” he says.

A lower price and standard all-wheel drive make the 2009 Mazda CX-7 GT a better value this year, says Editor-in-chief, Greg Wilson. “The CX-7 combines car-like performance and SUV-like utility in a very handsome and distinctive package.”

Its controversial nose styling aside, the front-wheel drive Acura TL is “entertaining to drive” with a “willing” engine and “satisfying” brakes, says Contributing Editor, Chris Chase. But its “pleasant interior” has a “tight rear seat and smallish trunk”, he says.

The Volkswagen Eos isn’t inexpensive, but it’s the best four-seater hardtop retractable in its price range, says Assistant Editor Jil McIntosh. Its turbocharged engine is strong, handling is nice, and the top includes a sliding sunroof for cooler days.

The all-new 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid combines the roominess and comfort of a mid-size sedan with fuel economy of a subcompact car, but like other hybrids on the market, there’s a price premium to be paid, says Editor-in-chief, Greg Wilson.

“A stylish car that “looks more expensive than it is”, the G37x has more horsepower than its key competitors, “fantastic” roadholding, and “impressive” ride, says Contributing Editor, Chris Chase. But he wasn’t overly impressed with its seven-speed automatic transmission.

With revised styling, spruced up interior and optional retractable hardtop, the 2009 MX-5 sports car has “plenty of headroom”, “decent legroom” and “improved sound insulation” says reviewer Peter Bleakney. “It still delivers maximum driving pleasure at modest velocities,” he says.

GM hit the nail squarely with the 2010 Camaro, reports Assistant Editor Jil McIntosh, who finds the V6 is just fine for boulevard cruising. “It handles well, it rides smoothly, and the juice goes to the right set of wheels.”

The Hyundai Elantra Touring is a “simple, basic car, but it’s also a very nice one,” reports Assistant Editor Jil McIntosh, who loves its practicality and design, but reports a rough idle and wonders why stability control isn’t available.

Toyota’s least expensive car may not have all the standard features economy car buyers typically want, but it does give Canadians the option of buying a brand new Toyota for under $15,000, says Editor-in-chief, Greg Wilson.

If you love torque, you’ll love the BMW 335d, says Assistant Editor Jil McIntosh, who’s impressed with 425 lb-ft from the 3.0-litre diesel engine. It’s also quiet, gets good mileage, and is wrapped in a car that’s designed for drivers.

The Buick Enclave is notable for its very smooth V6 drivetrain, on-road manners, and roomy, whisper-quiet cabin, says Senior Editor Paul Williams. But its plus-sized proportions demand “extra attention” when parking, he says.

For just over $35,000, the top-of-the-line Hyundai Santa Fe Limited is a good all-around value in the mid-sized, non-luxury SUV/crossover class, says Editor-in-chief, Greg Wilson, even though it’s no longer available with seven seats.

For an extra $2,000, the new six-speed manual Tremec transmission available in the 2009 Challenger SRT8 is "money well spent," says reviewer Peter Bleakney. "...the shifts are short and direct once the tranny warms up," he reports.

The new BMW X5 diesel beats the Mercedes-Benz ML 320 Bluetec and Audi’s Q7 TDI in power and fuel consumption ratings, but its suspension “is definitely on the firm side of comfortable,” says Contributing Editor, Chris Chase.

With a new four-cylinder engine and six-speed automatic transmission, the ’09 Ford Escape offers improved responsiveness and slightly better fuel economy, reports editor-in-chief, Greg Wilson, but the four-cylinder engine lacks refinement, he says.

A road trip for chicken wings is much improved with the 2009 Volkswagen Passat CC, says Assistant Editor Jil McIntosh, who reports on its “stunning design,” competent turbocharged engine, and a trunk big enough to handle three women’s shopping needs.

The John Cooper Works version of the Mini Clubman adds to the price, but also to the power and fun factor, reports Assistant Editor Jil McIntosh. It’s great to drive and offers comfortable seats, but controls could be more intuitive.

Those who want luxury will find their “automotive soul mate” in the Lexus ES 350, says contributor Dustin Woods. Others offer superior acceleration and handling, but “what the ES lacks in performance, it makes up in elegant styling and comfort.”