The bottom line, however, is that the Honda Civic is still one of the nicest performance cars in the compact segment. Pair that with Honda's reputation for quality and reliability and the result is a combination that's hard to beat.

the Elantra is certainly a well-rounded sedan that, while hardly sporty, offers a lot of bang for the buck and should certainly be near the top of the list of vehicles for consideration by most compact car shoppers.

All in all, the Fiesta SFE isn't exactly a bargain, but it does offer a unique combination of handling, performance and fuel economy unmatched in the subcompact segment.

So with a new 2015 model on the horizon, it's time we took one last look at the sixth generation edition.

There's even more to like about the Highlander with the latest generation model. The handling is more controlled, the third row is roomier and there's more cargo room. and its fuel economy has been improved. On the flip side, the ride is not as cushy and it seems as if there's a little more road noise inside the cabin. But better fuel economy, a ride that's still fairly quiet and a comfortable, spacious interior far outweigh those negatives so that buyers seeking Toyota's legendary quality and reliability in a large people mover now have even more reasons to choose a Highlander.

the Lexus GX 460 is the consummate body-on-frame sport utility cruiser - quiet and quick while eating up freeway miles and soaking up road irregularities in the city better than any other large vehicle we have ever driven. Throw in its legendary dealer experience and reliability and you have a combination that's hard to beat.

The bottom line, however is that this is, after all, a minivan and it manages to accomplish in fine fashion what most owners will demand of it. Those familiar with the previous-generation Sienna ought to be pleased with the improvements while consumers new to the market for this type of family hauler might want to put it near the top of their shopping lists.

The improvements made to the Outlander Sport make driving one a better experience as it's both more comfortable and quieter on the road. It's also a good looking vehicle. But the continuing lack of performance when coupled to the CVT automatic, unfortunately, relegate it to just mid-pack in the compact crossover segment.

Here at LotPro we were invited to attend a ride and drive event for Hyundai's updated midsize premium sedan that was held recently at the Planterra Conservatory in West Bloomfield, Michigan.

And while it's hardly time to man the lifeboats, rearranging the deck chairs - Ã la yet another facelift - is no longer an option if Chrysler hopes to become a serious player in the midsize segment; so no pressure, right?