The Bottom Line: The 2009 Chevrolet Traverse is a big family hauler with a few modern features. It shows a good direction for Chevrolet, but hasn't quite caught up with the rest of the world.
Specs: SUV, LTZ, Gas
The Bottom Line: Although not the car we would consider fun to drive, the 2009 Lincoln MKX's entertainment system delights, while information services can keep you out of bad traffic and help you find the cheapest gas.
Specs: SUV, MKX, Gas
The Bottom Line: If you like a fun, fast ride, the 2009 Honda Civic Si will make you smile. With navigation, phone connectivity, and modern digital music sources, it also makes a practical daily driver.
Specs: Coupe, Si, Gas
The Bottom Line: Although still a fuel economy champion, the 2008 Toyota Prius is about to be replaced by a new generation that should be better in every way. The car is a great commuter, but wait for the 2010 model.
Specs: Hatchback, Base, Hybrid
The Bottom Line: The 2009 Acura TL SH-AWD tries to strike a balance between comfortable commuter car and weekend sport driver, but leans towards the former. Cutting edge cabin tech increases the comfort level and gives it a practical edge.
Specs: Sedan, TL, Gas
The Bottom Line: A really beautiful sedan, the 2009 Volkswagen CC VR6 Sport returns decent fuel economy and a comfortable ride, but the cutting-edge cabin tech has a few faults, and the car is pricey.
Specs: Sedan, VR6, Gas
The Bottom Line: The 2009 Suzuki SX4 Sport packs good performance, decent fuel economy, and a high level of cabin tech into an unassuming package, making it a great value for the relatively low price.
Specs: Sedan, SX4, Gas
The Bottom Line: At the end of its model cycle, cabin tech in the 2008 Lexus RX 400h isn't cutting-edge, but the drivetrain still delivers impressive mileage by today's standards.
Specs: SUV, Base, Hybrid
The Bottom Line: The 2009 Infiniti FX50S will surprise you with its level of performance, the luxury of its cabin, and its very advanced cabin and safety tech. What you shouldn't be surprised by is the big SUV fuel economy.
Specs: SUV, FX50, Gas
The Bottom Line: A two-seater, the 2009 Nissan 370Z works best as a weekend sport driver and track day car, or, with the cabin tech package, a grand tourer good for short road trips.
Specs: 370Z, Gas
