Blending utility, verve The Mazda CX-7 is for those who want a rakish, nicely sized car-based crossover vehicle with agile handling, lively performance and decent cargo capacity. It offers an astute blend of sports car verve with a good dose of practicality.

Fierce Style The seventh-generation Nissan Maxima can almost be called a "four-door sports car," which is what Nissan called it before the last few models became a little soft for that title. Photo gallery: 2009 Nissan Maxima

VIDEO: BMW 128i Convertible

Durango, Aspen throw hat into hybrid ringChrysler LLC is late to the hybrid game, but during a recent media preview, the American automaker clearly stated that they think they’re introducing the right vehicles at the right time. Photo gallery: 2009 Dodge Durango Hybrid

Sable returnsAfter a three-year hiatus, Sable returns. Say goodbye to Montego. Say hello to the Mercury Sable. Sable is a much better sedan than Montego ever was, and it all starts under the hood.

CTS is impressive sedanThe 2008 Cadillac CTS is a world-class sport sedan with all the ingredients to please the most discerning customers. Buyers that might otherwise look to the imports for a luxurious sport sedan will come to appreciate this re-engineered Cadillac. Photo gallery: 2008 Cadillac CTS

Commander has great off-road handling, comfortable cabinWhen I first saw the exterior styling of the Jeep Commander three years ago, I thought it was brilliant for Jeep to go back to its roots and recapture the boxy profile made famous by its original Jeep Cherokee. The no frills design simply set a tone for what was a very capable off-road SUV.

Value, warranty give Azera high marks in classThe Azera is a full-size sedan that continues to elevate the rising consumer confidence in Hyundai vehicles. The Korean manufacturer has rebuilt itself from a rather auspicious beginning in the early eighties into a real competitor in the American market. Photo gallery: 2008 Hyundai Azera