The BMW M6: High Tech & High-Grade Performance

The high-performance model seated at the top of BMW's 6-series is the 500-hp V10 M6 coupe or convertible. With enough power to rival many higher-end sports cars plus a nice amount of trunk space and driving comfort, the BMW M6 represents a nice balance between driving exhilaration and value in its segment.

The convertible version was introduced last year. And although the capability to drive with the top down adds a substantial amount of added weight (500 lbs), the acceleration rate is only mildly impacted. While the M6 can seat four, the back seat is slightly cramped. But the overall ride comfort is pleasant, helped by adaptable suspension and interior touches that are luxurious and clean. Some may find the controls in the cockpit overly complicated, especially with the inclusion of the iDrive system. But the wide capabilities to adjust the driving dynamics that iDrive provides, may help take the sting out of learning how to use it.

It is pretty impossible to find another model with this high level of performance for the price, which starts around 99K. If you don't mind spending a few thousand more for less hp but more features, you may want to look at the Audi R8 or the Mercedes-Benz CL-Class.

Small Car Sales Boom: "Small is the new big"

Despite a recent survey conducted on BuyingAdvice that indicated that the majority of buyers are not downsizing their vehicles, USA Today reports that small car sales are on the rise in a big way this year.

The smallest, lowest-priced segment has reported that sales are up almost 27% compared to last year. Models that are enjoying being at the front of the pack in regards to this new buying trend are the Toyota Yaris and Honda Fit, which are up 70% and 61% respectively. As the head of Dodge. Mike Accavitti points out; small really is "the new big".

Small cars have come a long way in terms of design and performance in the last few years. But, for those who fear that they will have to give up gratifying performance just to save at the gas station, U.S. News & World Report has just released a list of vehicles that provide the most "thrills per gallon". So for those who still need some performance kick, check out recommendations like the Honda Civic Hybrid or the Ford Escape Hybrid-or the rest of their list.

The Sorento: Kia's Best Seller Has Value and Room to Spare

Kia's first shot at the SUV segment five years ago proved a good investment for the brand as it's their most popular model. With help from last year's engine update, the Kia Sorento provides a ride with impressive power and smooth balance.

The Sorento aced government crash testing, but those perfect scores are a bit dampened by the IIHS side testing rating of poor. And while there is a nice amount of space and features for the price, one drawback of the Sorento is that it is not necessarily a SUV for extremes as its ride can push back when pushed too far into corners or towards its limits. The Sorento can handle off-road terrain which is an extra boost, but not with the grace that something like the Nissan Xterra can. Also, the interior could have used an update last year when the exterior was refreshed.

But if you are looking for a nicely priced SUV with competent performance and lots of value, you'll be hard pressed to find an SUV that costs less with as much space, towing capacity and safety features as the Sorento.

Evolving Nicely: The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution

After a one year break, the performance-centered Evo returns this year sporting a new engine and new interior and exterior styling, which it shares with the Lancer GTS. There are a lot of new refinements in the tenth generation Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution including a silkier ride and nice bonuses like a hard-drive based navigation system.

While some followers may feel betrayed by this, the MR is now equipped with an automated-clutching transmission controlled by paddle shifters. If you want to stay closer to the Evo's rougher lineage, opt for the GSR with a 5-speed manual instead. Ample power comes from the new turbo-charged four-cylinder engine. And the Evolution's handling is tighter and can manage sharp corners with ease using the advanced 4WD system, while not compromising much (if any) fun.

Some minor drawbacks are that the interior is a little too sedan-like to perfectly match the Evolution's sportier image. Also, with sporty performance comes less fuel-efficiency at 17 / 22 mpgs. But all in all, the tenth generation Evolution delivers sports car performance for a price that is thankfully less than most sports car brands.

Strike or not, it's a good bet you won't be waiting long for your Malibu

Ok, show of hands now. How many out there really believe GM is in a big hurry to settle the strike at American Axle & Manufacturing Co.?

That's what I thought. Not many of you, huh?

With the strike at AA&M a month old, plant workers are still battling to keep management from taking away half their salaries. And while GM says it wants resolution, there just doesn't see to be much the automaker is offering except lip service.

Now, the strike is threatening to halt production of GM's hottest new car - the Chevrolet Malibu, 2008 Car of the Year, as noted in a recent story in the Chicago Tribune.

But how much do you want to bet that isn't going to happen? GM has already sold 27,000 Malibu's in the first quarter of this year, and over 30,000 of the gas conscious Pontiac G6 during the same time frame.

That seems like more than enough good news for GM to offset the closure of seven truck plants, a sedan operation and 22 parts facilities that remain idle because of the strike. You do the math.

Is Ford finally getting an "Edge" on the competition?

Many times, sometimes deservedly so, Ford Motor Company gets a bad rap. People say their vehicles are either too stodgy (built to attract older more conservative drivers) or their designs are out of touch with the times.

But, an orange will always be an orange. It is what it is. Let's face it, Ford will never be as creative as, say Chrysler, when it comes to innovative designs unless the brand changes their creative philosophy altogether - something that's about as likely to happen as Tiger Woods never winning another golf tournament.

But you can't knock Ford for its latest efforts with the Ford Edge, a cleverly designed, two-year old crossover vehicle that may have just saved the company's hide in the highly competitive CUV market.

If Ford can avoid the big "R" word (recall) that has beset some of its more promising vehicles and poisoned folk's minds against the company in recent years; it may be well on the way to making younger, new car buyers believe the company actually does know they exist.

Who knows, this could be the start of something, well, over the Edge for Ford as it struggles to regain its rightful place among world automotive leaders.

No Real Point of Distinction in the Pontiac G5

Despite its different styling and $500 increase in price, it is hard to think of Pontiac G5 as all that distinctive when compared to its platform counterpart, the Chevrolet Cobalt.

Although the G5 does have better looks and decent power, it just doesn't seem to offer enough to justify the increase in price, or to differentiate itself enough into a needed separate model from GM. Like the Cobalt, the G5 in its debut year has already suffered from some reliability issues. Also safety scores are not perfect for the G5 in either front or side testing; and some key features like traction control are optional, not standard.

We find that the fact that the G5 only comes as a coupe is an admirable point of departure. But if the reliability record is causing you apprehension, you may want to look into the Honda Civic Coupe DX. Or save a bit of money by buying a Chevy Cobalt.