What a difference a year makes. After dark times nearly ground the auto industry to a halt, production lines are back up to speed, sending bright, shiny -- and most importantly -- quality vehicles into showrooms. From electric to electrifying, we break it all down in a concise, model-by-model review that begins on the next page. To make things easier, we've broken it down into five parts separated by automaker:
STAR RATINGS:
Hyundai Accent
BASE PRICE RANGE:$10,705-$16,865
BODY TYPE:Hatch, sedan
WHAT'S NEW:There are only minor tweaks to the Accent for 2011. First, the power sunroof, which had been available -- and standard -- only on the SE model, has been dropped. In addition, due to low demand, Mellow Yellow paint has been discontinued. On the GL, once-optional six-speaker AM/FM/XM/CD/MP3 audio system with iPod/aux jack is now standard.
BEST BUY:The sporty SE model adds desirable options and a 70-percent increase in roll stiffness over the Accent GS.
SUM UP:Honest, economical, but a little boring. **
HyundaiAzera
BASE PRICE RANGE:$26,270-$30,870
BODY TYPE:Sedan
WHAT'S NEW:Receives more power in each V-6: The 3.3L gets 26 more horses for a total of 260; the 3.8L gains 20 hp for 283. Both engines now use an in-house six-speed automatic. There's a new grille, bumper, headlights, and foglights, plus a revised rearend. Redesigned 17-in. alloy wheels and minor styling changes in the cabin round out the changes.
AVOID:The Azera with the 3.3L engine. A Sonata 2.0T is faster, more efficient, and has more options for the same price.
SUM UP:Others do this better. **1/2
Hyundai Elantra
BASE PRICE RANGE:$15,000-$20,500 (est)
BODY TYPE:Sedan, wagon
WHAT'S NEW:While the Elantra sedan and Elantra Touring wagon currently share styling, a new Elantra sedan is likely coming for 2012. The sedan was shown as the Avante in Seoul, looking a lot like a small Sonata and powered by a direct-injection four. In the meantime, the Elantra Touring gets minor styling changes, including new colors and the availability of leather.
LOOK FOR:A more stylish next-generation model soon.
SUM UP:Competent, and conservative—for now. ***
Hyundai Equus
BASE PRICE RANGE:$55,000-$65,000*
BODY TYPE:Sedan
WHAT'S NEW:If the Genesis represented Hyundai dipping a toe into the luxury-sedan waters, the Equus is the company diving in. The new sedan offers V-8 power and a 6-sp automatic standard, with a premium cabin and more space than in the Lexus LS. Real wood, Alcantara headliner, and massaging driver seat are a few of the available amenities.
AVOID:Being surprised that Hyundai has engineered a Mercedes-Benz S-Class alternative.
SUM UP:New lux offering may turn heads. (not rated)
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Hyundai Genesis
BASE PRICE RANGE:$33,800-$43,800
BODY TYPE:Sedan
WHAT'S NEW:The company simplified the number of interior/exterior color combinations from 16 to 13. The only other change is that the 3.8 Technology package content now comes standard on all 4.6s. This includes a 17-speaker 7.1 surround sound audio system, navigation, rearview backup camera, Bluetooth, smart cruise control, and cooled driver seat.
COOL FACT: Toyota benchmarked the Genesis sedan for interior refinement when developing the 2011 Avalon sedan.
SUM UP:Minor upgrades from beating Lexus. ****
READ MORE:
Comparison: 2010 Ford Taurus Limited AWD vs 2011 Toyota Avalon Limited vs 2010 Hyundai Genesis 3.8
Hyundai Genesis Coupe
BASE PRICE RANGE:$23,100-$33,100
BODY TYPE:Coupe
WHAT'S NEW:A new trim level for 2011: the R-Spec. With the 2.0L four, it replaces the Track model. With the 3.8L V-6, it becomes the new standard model, replacing the 3.8 Base. In addition, the manual transmission is no longer available in the 2.0T Premium or the 3.8 Grand Touring. All models receive soft-touch materials in the cabin and softer armrests.
LOOK FOR:Hyundai to boost the power (and hopefully the refinement) of the turbo four in the near future.
SUM UP:Takes on Mustang and Camaro. *** 1/2
READ MORE:
Comparison: 2011 Mustang V-6 vs 2010 Genesis Coupe 3.8 vs 2010 Camaro RS vs 2010 Challenger SE
Hyundai Sonata
BASE PRICE RANGE:$19,915-$27,000 (est)
BODY TYPE:Sedan
WHAT'S NEW:The Sonata is all new for 2011. It's longer and wider, with a choice of a direct injection four, a hybrid, or a turbo 2.0L four, with three transmissions. Styling has taken an entirely new direction; the previous Sonata was an excellent car that was practically invisible, but the new Sonata looks good enough to be mistaken for a luxury car.
COOL FACT:The 2.0T turbo model has at least 74 hp more than any automatic-equipped 2.4L model yet only loses 1 mpg on the highway.
SUM UP:A challenge to the Camry and Accord.****
READ MORE:
Comparison: Best-Selling Midsize Family Sedans
InfinitiG37
BASE PRICE RANGE:$31,825-$55,800 (est)
BODY TYPE:Sedan, coupe, conv
WHAT'S NEW:Limited Edition models replace the Anniversary Editions of the G in all three body styles and a less-expensive G25 powered by a 218-hp 2.5L V-6 is new, as well. The coupe's front fascias have been redesigned and there are new 18- and 19-in. wheel designs. A special IPL G coupe features a number of upgrades including 18-hp more than a regular coupe.
DRIVER'S CHOICE:The G37 Coupe Sport 6MT combines the 330-hp V-6 with a six-speed manual transmission and stunning coupe styling.
SUM UP:Excellent alternative to BMW 3 Series. *** 1/2
READ MORE:
First Test: 2010 Infiniti G37S Coupe 20th Anniversary Edition
InfinitiM37/M56
BASE PRICE RANGE:$47,115-$60,915
BODY TYPE:Sedan
WHAT'S NEW:Virtually every aspect of the 2011 M is new, including fresh styling inside and out, more powerful engines, improved fuel efficiency, and more technologically advanced features. Resembling a plus-size G sedan, the M is quicker, thanks to a 330-hp V-6 and 420-hp V-8, yet, with a standard 7-sp auto, more fuel miserly.
COOL FACT:Infiniti's Forest Air system tries to mimic the refreshing climate and natural breezes of a forest.
SUM UP:Japan's 5 Series gets even better. ****
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Jaguar XF
BASE PRICE RANGE:$53,000-$80,000
BODY TYPE:Sedan
WHAT'S NEW:The direct-injected 5.0L V-8 has replaced the 4.2L V-8 as base engine. A new high-performance XFR was added to the top of the range while the Supercharged model returned in late 2010 as a 2011 model with a new engine. A new Portfolio package adds more luxury touches including contrast stitching, suede headliner, a new wood veneer, and deep-pile carpets.
COOL FACT:Like all 2011 Jaguars, the XF now comes with five years or 50,000 miles of free scheduled maintenance.
SUM UP:Stylish but needs polish. ****
JaguarXJ
BASE PRICE RANGE:$72,500-$113,000
BODY TYPE:Sedan
WHAT'S NEW:Everything above the aluminum frame is new on the new XJ. Sleek, modern styling is matched with much-improved handling and powerful new engines. Inside, a stylish new cockpit awaits with high-tech digital gauges, supple leather, and copious space even on short wheelbase models. A high-powered Supersport model remains for the enthusiast.
COOL FACT:The instrument cluster on XJs is a set of virtual dials on a 12.3-inch glass screen behind the steering wheel.
SUM UP:Poised to save Jaguar, again. ****
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Jaguar XK
BASE PRICE RANGE:$83,000-$102,000
BODY TYPE:Coupe, conv
WHAT'S NEW:The most important changes to the XK range come under the hood, where the old 4.2L V-8 has been replaced with more powerful 5.0L V-8s, again in naturally aspirated and supercharged trim. Bodywork is updated slightly, as is the interior, which gets the electronic JaguarDrive Select gear selection knob from the XF sedan.
DRIVER'S CHOICE:XKR Convertible to better enjoy that 510-hp supercharged soundtrack.
SUM UP:Better but showing its age. *** 1/2
Jeep Compass
BASE PRICE RANGE:$16,000-$25,500 (est)
BODY TYPE:Wagon
WHAT'S NEW:The 2011 model year is anticipated to bring a significant refresh to the Compass. A redone interior and exterior is likely and we wouldn't be surprised to see fuel economy climb slightly. For the 2010 model year Compass, automatic climate control is available on Limited models, and if you opt for the CVT you can get a remote engine starter.
LOOK FOR: A refreshed Compass to better compete with hatchbacks, wagons, and small SUVs priced around $20,000.
SUM UP:No real sport or utility. * 1/2
KiaForte/Forte Koup
BASE PRICE RANGE:$14,400-$18,400 (est)
BODY TYPE:Sedan, coupe, hatch
WHAT'S NEW:The Forte five-door is new for 2011. This is the five-door version of the Forte sedan, with 2.0L and 2.4L engines, plus the option of 6-sp manual or automatic. It's about the same size as the sedan and will most likely get the same three trim levels. The 2011 sedan gets changes as well, including optional 6-sp transmissions, paddle shifters, and nav.
BEST BUY:Go for the Forte SX trim, which adds the larger 2.4L engine, 17-inch wheels, and more.
SUM UP:Much better, but still not the best. ***
Kia Optima
BASE PRICE RANGE:$19,500-$27,000 (est)
BODY TYPE:Sedan
WHAT'S NEW:The all-new 2011 Optima now looks bolder, younger and more luxurious. Power comes from three new sources -- two direct-injection four-cylinders and a forthcoming gas-electric hybrid -- and the base engine, with an estimated 200 horses, has more power than the outgoing V-6 did (194 hp).
DRIVER'S CHOICE:It's not obvious? The Optima with the 274-hp turbo four-cylinder with nearly the same fuel economy as the non-turbo four.
SUM UP:Optima finally stands out. (not rated)
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Kia Rio/Rio5
BASE PRICE RANGE:$12,990-$17,090
BODY TYPE:Sedan, hatch
WHAT'S NEW:Following a minor refresh that happened for 2010, which added new styling cues and interior options, not much has changed for 2011. Last year, the manual was the base transmission on all models; now it's only offered on base Rio. Bluetooth connectivity is now available as a part of the optional LX Value Package.
BEST BUY:At least the LX, which can be had with air conditioning and Bluetooth.
SUM UP:Not best in class, but decent. ** 1/2
Kia Soul
BASE PRICE RANGE:$14,000-$18,000 (est)
BODY TYPE:Wagon
WHAT'S NEW:Exterior door handles are now the grip-type, plus on ! and sport models, heated side mirrors are available. Inside, rear-seat headrest height adjustment and illuminated window switches are standard, blue and green have been added to the speaker lights, and new options include automatic climate control, leather seats, cargo cover.
COOL FACT:The Kia Soul is one of the least expensive vehicles to have 18-inch wheels as standard equipment.
SUM UP:Cute, capable Scion-fighter. ***
LamborghiniGallardo
BASE PRICE RANGE:$200,100-$230,500 (est)
BODY TYPE:Coupe, conv
WHAT'S NEW:If you prefer your motoring alfresco style, you'll definitely want to opt for the power-softtop Spyder version, introduced in late 2009. For the 2011 model year, Lambo is also unveiling a special, limited Superleggera ("super-light") edition -- which drops 154 lb off the standard Gallardo while also bumping output to 562 hp (other performance-enhancing goodies are added too).
DRIVER'S CHOICE:Get the Valentino Balboni RWD model and hang on.
SUM UP:Lambo's best seller for good reason. *****
READ MORE:
First Drive: 2011 Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera
LamborghiniMurciélago
BASE PRICE RANGE:$355,000-$460,000 (est)
BODY TYPE:Coupe, conv
WHAT'S NEW:Lamborghini introduced both the SV and the open-air Roadster versions for the 2010 model year. While the Roadster is rarer, the SV is juicier. Roughly 220 lb lighter than the LP 640, the SV also sports the previously noted power bump, a revised bod (with larger, fixed rear wing), and carbon-fiber cabin trim.
LOOK FOR:The Murciélago replacement, the Jota, to arrive soon and possibly without the famous high-rising doors.
SUM UP:Outrageous performance and looks. *****
READ MORE:
Comparison: Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport vs Lamborghini Murcielago LP 670-4 SV
Lexus CT 200h
BASE PRICE:$28,000 (est)
BODY TYPE:Hatch
WHAT'S NEW:This is the first hatchback from Lexus, and the company's second stand-alone hybrid. Exterior and interior styling should appeal to buyers younger than the rest of the line (with the possible exception of the IS models) attracts. The hybrid can operate solely on electric power for up to a mile. Four driving modes range from frugal to fun.
COOL FACT:In Sport mode, the CT 200h turns the hybrid power meter to a tachometer and blue ambient lighting becomes red.
SUM UP:Cool hybrid could make waves. (not rated)
Lexus ES350
BASE PRICE:$36,400
BODY TYPE:Sedan
WHAT'S NEW:After a mild refresh added new styling cues for 2010, not too much changes for 2011. The 3.5L V-6 returns, now with six fewer horsepower (now 268) and six fewer pound-feet of torque (now 248). However, Lexus has changed the recommended fuel from premium to regular.
COOL FACT:Optional Intuitive Parking Assist uses visual and audible cues to let the driver know when the car is about to hit something.
SUM UP:Bland yet competent. ***
READ MORE:
First Drive: 2010 Lexus ES 350
Lexus GS
BASE PRICE RANGE:$46,875-$58,825
BODY TYPE:Sedan
WHAT'S NEW:On all three models, if the car isn't equipped with optional nav, rearview mirror includes a compass (nav system has its own compass). Otherwise, last year's improvements carry over: new wheel options, grille, voice command for nav system, Bluetooth, and options from F-Sport line including wheels, brakes, intake, suspension mods.
BEST BUY:Get the GS 350. You'll reach 60 mph 0.3 second slower than in the V-8 but save thousands.
SUM UP:Not a BMW beater. ***
READ MORE:
Executive Privileges: Luxury Sport Sedan Comparison
Lexus HS 250h
BASE PRICE:$35,500 (est)
BODY TYPE:Sedan
WHAT'S NEW:All new for 2010, no mechanical or interior changes were announced for the new model year. There was a safety recall that happened for the 2010 HS, which involved reprogramming the antilock brakes. Otherwise, the only news is with exterior color changes: Satin Cashmere Metallic replaces Golden Almond Metallic, Deep Sea Mica replaces Black Sapphire Pearl, and Aurora White Pearl discontinued.
LOOK FOR:The Lincoln MKZ Hybrid.
SUM UP:Prius in an expensive suit. **
Lexus IS/IS C/IS F
BASE PRICE RANGE:$33,020-$59,885
BODY TYPE:Sedan, conv
WHAT'S NEW:IS 250 and IS 350 receive a new grille, front bumper, and exhaust tip. AWD now available on IS 350. Interior trim is now a black metallic finish. Convertibles add a Luxury Package with new interior colors, sedans are available with the F-Sport Package (18-inch wheels, sport suspension, sport seats). Adaptive Front Lighting has been discontinued.
COOL FACT:Lexus made a 100-unit special edition for the convertible called the IS 350 C F Sport Special Edition with exclusive upgrades.
SUM UP:Balance of luxury and performance. ****
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Lexus LFA(2012)
BASE PRICE RANGE:$375,000-$445,000
BODY TYPE:Coupe
WHAT'S NEW:Lexus' first engineering effort at a supercar has taken nearly 10 years and resulted in one impressive, if expensive, car. Expect a convertible version of the LFA soon. The Nürburgring Edition LFA will make 50 of the car's 500-unit total production. The car gets a 10-hp boost, special black wheels, bright orange paint, and a sport-tuned suspension.
COOL FACT:Lexus claims the reason for the TFT-LCD gauges is that analog units couldn't keep up with the high-revving nature of the car's V-10.
SUM UP:Injecting passion into the Lexus lineup. *****
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Lexus LS
BASE PRICE RANGE:$67,000-$110,000 (est)
BODY TYPE:Sedan
WHAT'S NEW:A 12-volt power port was added to the storage area in front of the shifter. Air suspension had been standard on all-wheel-drive models; now coil suspension is standard and air is optional across the line. On hybrid models, the adaptive variable power stabilizer suspension system is no longer available.
COOL FACT:Lexus' LS 460 Sport adds Brembo brakes, a sport-tuned suspension, 19-inch forged alloys, other interior and exterior upgrades.
SUM UP:Good but competition is improving. *** 1/2
READ MORE:
First Drive: 2010 Lexus LS 460 Sport
LincolnMKS
BASE PRICE RANGE:$42,095-$48,985
BODY TYPE:Sedan
WHAT'S NEW:The big news for the MKS is the EcoBoost twin-turbo V-6, which puts down the power of a V-8 with the fuel economy of a V-6. Lincoln's flagship sedan also receives numerous chassis and suspension tweaks to improve its noise, vibration, and harshness characteristic, with EcoBoost models receiving more extensive changes to compensate for the extra power.
DRIVER'S CHOICE:Gotta be the MKS with the 355-hp EcoBoost V-6.
SUM UP:Old-school luxury, modern tech. ***
Lincoln MKZ
BASE PRICE RANGE:$35,180-$37,070
BODY TYPE:Sedan
WHAT'S NEW:A hybrid model joins the MKZ lineup for 2011 and is expected to be rated 41/36 mpg city/highway. The interiors of all MKZ's are now quieter and better appointed. Additionally, the MKZ's transmission received new gear ratios in 2010 and a slightly revised engine, though power output remains the same.
COOL FACT:MKZs with the HD Radio receiver can save information about up to 100 songs on their docked iPod, for purchase later.
SUM UP: Lincoln finally holds its own.***
READ MORE:
First Look: 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid
Lincoln Town Car
BASE PRICE RANGE:$47,870-$53,540
BODY TYPE:Sedan
WHAT'S NEW:Like its Ford and Mercury platformmates, the Town Car hasn't received a major update in years and that trend continues into the big luxury sedan's final year. Technophobes will be happy to know that the Town Car is devoid of high-tech features like a navigation system, satellite radio, or rear backup camera.
COOL FACT:The Town Car outsold the Navigator and just-launched MKT combined during 2009.
SUM UP:Luxury past its expiration. *
Lotus Elise
BASE PRICE RANGE:$47,500-$55,000 (est)
BODY TYPE:Convertible
WHAT'S NEW:The 2011 Elise gets a styling refresh that changes the design of the front fascia. The car is now visually tied to the new Evora, with two angled lamp assemblies completed with LEDs replacing the quad headlights on the original model. The lower fascia gets a grille and side splitters that resemble those on the Evora.
COOL FACT:Lotus says the coefficient of drag has been reduced by 4 percent thanks to the Elise's restyled front end.
SUM UP:A ton -- literally -- of fun. *** 1/2
Lotus Evora
BASE PRICE:$74,625
BODY TYPE:Coupe
WHAT'S NEW:Just about everything. While components of the Evora's modular architecture are shared with the Elise and Exige, all other bits and pieces are unique. As the brand's only four-seat and V-6-powered offering, the Evora necessitated fresh sheetmetal, a more luxurious interior, all-new power steering, larger brakes, and a suspension both capable at the track and liveable on the road.
COOL FACT:First all-new Lotus since 1995, when Elise debuted.
SUM UP:Exotic looks with performance to match. ****
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Lotus ExigeS240/S260
BASE PRICE RANGE:$66,000-$75,500 (est)
BODY TYPE:Coupe
WHAT'S NEW:The Exige wears a new composite rear wing a la the GT3 concept that was shown at the 2007 Geneva auto show. The new wing is over seven inches wider and nearly two inches taller than 2009's. A restyled front fascia includes a larger central air intake flanked by two additional intakes. A new track package boasts adjustable Öhlins dampers.
COOL FACT:The Exige uses Lotus' Versatile Vehicle Architecture, a modular structure consisting of bonded and riveted aluminum extrusions.
SUM UP:Visceral, hardcore, an absolute blast. ****