Notes by macky111: While it lacks the brand name pizzaz of the segment leaders from Honda and Toyota, it offers much of the same features, safety and comfort but with a substantially smaller price tag.

Notes by macky111: In addition to its materials and build quality, the drive of the ES 350 is impressively quiet, almost astonishingly so, while the ride is silky smooth. The purpose of the ES 350 is to pamper and comfort in a way other vehicles in its price range can't mat

Notes by macky111: It's still based on the same truck chassis as the sturdy Nissan Titan and Armada. And while still a decent off-pavement performer, the Pathfinder has now dropped its Off Road Package, thereby easing off of some of its "go anywhere" abilities. It remains,

Notes by macky111: The LR2 is Land Rover's entry-level model for those on a tighter budget, but who also value the brand's status, luxury features and off-road athleticism.

Notes by macky111: It's the unique midgate design that lends the Avalanche its special versatility and flexibility. The midgate is a foldable wall with a removable window that separates the bed from the cabin.

Notes by macky111: Another strong suit of the 2010 Passat is an attractive and high-quality interior, arguably the best in its class. And the versatile yet agile wagon offers a fairly rare alternative nowadays to larger SUVs.

Notes by macky111: Standard features on the Premium include full power accessories, 8-way power front seats, Audi's MMI with dash-mounted controls, tri-zone automatic climate control, 18 inch alloy wheels, a trip computer, a tilt/telescoping steering wheel, heated side mirr

Notes by macky111: And among its new features for the 2010 model year, the Cadillac Escalade gets a gas-saving cylinder-deactivation technology for its 6.2-liter V8 engine, a revised door construction for improved occupant protection, new front side-impact airbags, a new US

Notes by macky111: For those who don't recall, it was the RAV4 that introduced today's hugely popular car-based small SUV concept (crossover) 14 years ago. It was a leader then and, although experiencing a myriad of changes since, remains a top pick today.

Notes by macky111: And the new 2010 model, with several additional improvements, has added considerably to that appeal.