The 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe ranks 2 out of 5 Affordable Sports Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 10 published reviews and test drives of the Hyundai Genesis Coupe, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.”Obviously, Hyundai has much to be proud of with its first rear-drive sport coupe. The value is unbeatable. The quality is tip-top. The road manners are respectable. The styling, with its unique Z-shaped character line and drop-beltline rear window, is standout. Sure, there are some details — namely, the inexact manual and the numb steering — that need some fine-tuning. But for an initial effort, in a field that it’s never played, Hyundai has delivered a solid, sexy product.” — Motor Trend

The 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe is a great value, offering rear-wheel drive sports car abilities for significantly less than the competition. Still, it lags behind rivals in sports performance.”On sale since March, the Genesis coupe is a revelation, no pun intended. It’s a genuine yardage gain for the yin-yang team and a serious kink in the law dictating that rear-drive hoots must cost big bucks.” — Car and Driver

The all-new Genesis Coupe is Hyundai’s sportiest vehicle yet. Sharing a platform with the award-winning Genesis sedan, the Coupe is consistently compared to the much desired Infiniti G37 — except it costs significantly less. In fact, most auto writers agree that while the Genesis Coupe isn’t without its flaws, it’s definitely a great value.

Still, the Genesis Coupe can’t match the performance dynamics of class rivals, like the Nissan 370Z — which has a higher starting price, but is a sexier, much more capable street machine. Before settling on a Hyundai Genesis, be sure to test drive a Z. The Mazda RX-8 is also worth a look, as it too bests the Genesis Coupe’s performance.

The Genesis Coupe 2.0T is available in base, Premium and Track trims. In addition to base and track, the 3.8 is also offered in a Grand Touring trim.”Overall, the Genesis coupe looks like a solid commuter car for those looking to spice up their daily drives. It’s enjoyable but usable. You can park it. You can maneuver it. There’s room to put (some) stuff in it. And for a starting price of $22,750 with freight, this is within reach for a lot of people. Spruce it up and you pay $31,750 for a fully loaded model, but it’s still a decent value.” — AutoWeek

The 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe is fast, but reviewers say it can’t match the power or handling dynamics of its sportier competitors. The base Genesis Coupe 2.0T features a 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder engine that produces 210 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 223 pound-feet of torque at 2,000 rpm. However, the more powerful Genesis Coupe 3.8 comes equipped with a 3.8-liter V6 engine that generates 306 horsepower at 6,300 rpm and 266 pound-feet of torque at 4,700 rpm. While test driver report that both engines make for quick acceleration, neither is powerful enough to compete with rivals like the Ford Mustang GT or Nissan 370Z.

A six-speed manual transmission is standard on all models and trims, though a five-speed electronic automatic transmission with paddle shifters is optional for the 2.0T and 2.0T Premium; and a ZF six-speed electronic automatic transmission with paddle shifters is optional for the Coupe 3.8.The EPA has yet to rate the Genesis Coupe’s city/highway fuel economy. Hyundai asserts that it ranges between 17/26 mpg and 21/30 model, depending on model and transmission.

The 2010 Subaru Outback ranks 1 out of 5 Affordable Full Size Wagons. This ranking is based on our analysis of 10 published reviews and test drives of the Subaru Outback, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.”Sharing many structural and mechanical elements with the also-new-for-2010 Legacy sedan, Subaru’s contemporary AWD crossover gets an extra measure of everything that really matters to the active-lifestyle buyers it’s seeking: bolder character, enhanced functionality, and improved performance.” — Motor Trend

If you’re looking for the practicality of an SUV without all the negative associations, you should consider the newly-redesigned 2010 Subaru Outback. It features all-wheel-drive, an excellent ride and lots of room for your cargo.”The 2010 Subaru Outback is an excellent vehicle. Now it goes toe-to-toe with the Hyundai Santa Fe and the Toyota Venza instead of the Audi A4 Avant or Volkswagen Passat 4Motion. But if you were hoping this new Outback was going to remain a tidy AWD wagon made smarter for you and roomier for guests, you’ll be disappointed with Subaru’s newest SUV.” — Edmunds

The Subaru Outback continues to offer a solid value for car buyers looking for an alternative from the mainstream car market. It is functional, practical and represents an outstanding value proposition, especially at the lower trim levels. The Outback is cross-shopped against both wagons and SUVs, as it falls somewhere in the middle of those two categories. In many ways, it’s the ultimate split personality: the convenience of an SUV, thanks to its large cargo area, and the drivability of a sedan, thanks to its nice ride. In fact, Motor Trend has named it Sport Utility of the Year and Popular Mechanics has named it their Most Versatile Car for 2010.

Completely overhauled for 2010, the Outback has more space for passengers and cargo, as well as a new optional 3.6-liter V6 for more power. While Subaru owners have a reputation for being “alternative,” the new Outback is sure to expand the Subaru fan base beyond the usual stereotype. The value on the lower trim models are impossible to ignore. Popular Mechanics says: “Subaru owners may be odd in some ways, but they’re nothing if not practical about their vehicles and determined to wring every last ounce of value from their purchases. And there’s plenty of value in the new Outback — as long as you stay near the bottom of the price ladder.”

The Outback is available in the following trims: the base 2.5i, the 2.5i Premium, the 2.5i Limited, the 3.6R and the 3.6R Premium.”The 2010 Outback is bigger and better than before, but it’s still a proudly eccentric and weirdly wonderful mashup of station wagon, SUV and Australian off-road pretense. ” — Popular Mechanics

The Outback drives like a car — a tough car. With its standard all-wheel drive system, the Outback can handle poor weather conditions without breaking a sweat. Reviewers enjoy the optional CVT transmission that is available on trims with the 2.5 liter engine. The 2.5-liter engine has more than enough power for everyday driving, but those looking for a little more get-up may prefer opting for the 256-horsepower in the 3.6-liter V6. The EPA gives the 2.5-liter gets 22 MPG in the city and 29 on the highway when paired with the CVT and 19 city /27 highway with the manual transmission. The V6 only comes with an automatic transmission and it gets 18 city / 25 highway.

The 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata ranks 1 out of 5 Affordable Sports Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 61 published reviews and test drives of the Mazda MX-5 Miata, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.”The new MX-5 is just like that bubbly, blonde cheerleader you knew in high school 15 years ago. Only now she’s grown up and has a college degree. She’s also put on a few more pounds. But she still knows all the moves.” — Motor Trend

The Mazda MX-5 Miata is a reviewer favorite for its combination of thrilling handling, impressive build quality and long-term value.”For what the car is, and what it has always been, the MX-5 Miata is essentially without peer. And whether you like the retractable hardtop or not — and I do — the soft top is still available for purists, and the hardtop just adds one more feature that makes the car a little more practical as a daily driver.” — Orlando Sentinel

The 2010 Miata is a dream, especially for sports car enthusiasts on a budget. It’s quick, agile, great on gas and reliable too. In fact, Edmunds describes it as “a lightweight, balanced and responsive roadster that delivers the very best in wind-in-the-hair driving at an affordable price.”

Still, critics report that competitors like the Honda S2000 and Nissan 370Z offer stronger engines and faster off-the-line performance. In fact, shoppers looking for a stronger on-track performer may very well be better off with the S2000’s Club Racer Trim — which not only provides 70 more horsepower, but is specially tuned for the racing circuit. The 370Z, on the other hand, out powers the Miata by a whopping 165 ponies and is, arguably, more comfortable to ride in. Neither, however, trumps the Miata in terms of handling. In that regard, few vehicles at this price point can compete with the Miata.

Refreshed in 2009, the Miata carries into the 2010 model year largely the same. The soft top Miata is available in three trims: Sport, Touring and Grand Touring. The power retractable hardtop is available in two: Touring and Grand Touring.”The latest generation is spectacularly good, both sweetly rewarding to drive and an excellent value.” — New Car Test Drive

The 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata is a blast to drive. While auto writers note that other vehicles are faster, most agree that speed isn’t what the Miata is all about — top notch sports handling is. In that respect, the Miata is a success. The Miata is no overpowered beast of a machine, but test drivers find that its ample powertrain is satisfyingly smooth. Every 2010 MX-5 is equipped with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 167 horsepower at 7,000 rpm with the manual transmission, and 140 pound-feet of torque at 5,000 rpm. Horsepower ratings decrease slightly with the optional automatic transmission. For a more powerful sports roadster, check out the 332-horspower Nissan 370Z.

While the Sport features a five-speed manual transmission, the Touring and Grand Touring utilize a six-speed manual transmission. A six-speed automatic with steering-mounted manual shift paddles is available for all trims. According to the EPA, the 2010 Miata nets a city/highway fuel economy of 21/28 mpg with an automatic or six-speed manual transmission and 22/28 mpg with a five-speed manual.

The 2010 Porsche 911 Carrera ranks 1 out of 7 Super Luxury Sports Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 83 published reviews and test drives of the Porsche 911 Carrera, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.”The 911 has always exuded a unique charm, and that’s equally true of these new ones.” — Popular Mechanics

The 2010 Porsche 911 Carrera balances luxury with power and agility like few cars can. It sets a high bar in super luxury sports cars.”Its looks haven’t changed much over forty years, but it’s the subtle improvements that make each new 911 so great. And if you still haven’t driven one after all this time, you’re probably one of those misguided souls who think the horizontally opposed, shoved-up-the-wazoo engine makes the 911 nothing more than an overhyped, overpriced VW Beetle derivative. But you’re wrong. Drive a 911, and you’ll want to buy it. If you can’t afford a new one, get a used one.” — Automobile Magazine

The 911 Carrera has been highly regarded since its introduction in the early 60’s — and for good reason: it’s luxurious, attention-grabbing and one hell of a performer. In fact, Edmunds calls it “the quintessential sports car” and “one of the most enduring and historically important high-performance cars on the market today.” Not surprisingly, auto writers are unanimous in their praise of the 911.

Shoppers in the market for a super luxury sports car should also consider the Mercedes-Benz SL550. Like its Porsche rival, the SL550 is a luxurious and capable machine. It even features 382 horsepower — which is on par with the 911 Carrera S, 4S and Targa 4S. The S and 4S Coupes, however, are much quicker off the line than the SL550 and provide better all-around sports handling.

Another great option is Nissan’s supercar, the GT-R. Boasting a 480-horsepower twin-turbo V6 engine, this street demon blasts from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.3 seconds — making it hard for even high-priced exotics like the Gallardo LP-560 and 599 GTB Fiorano to keep pace. The GT-R was named Motor Trend’s Car of the Year for 2009. Needless to say, it’s worth a look.

This review covers the 2010 911 Carrera base trim, S, 4, 4S, Targa 4 and Targa 4S. For even greater sports performance, check out the 911 Turbo and GT3 models.”Few cars…deliver the 911’s thrilling balance of precision steering and handling with daily-driver livability.” — Consumer Guide

The 2010 Porsche 911 Carrera’s performance abilities leave test drivers floored. It was refreshed in ‘09 refresh to feature more power, speed and agility. Reviewers have little to complain about.Last year, the 911 Carrera debuted an all-new rear-mounted engine, with more power and better gas mileage, and replaced its Tiptronic S transmission with an entirely new double-clutch gearbox. Reviewers were impressed, and still are — as the 911 carries into the 2010 model year unchanged.

The 911 Carrera base-trim, 4, and Targa 4 are equipped with a 3.6-liter six-cylinder engine that produces 345-horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 288 pound-feet of torque at 4,400 rpm. The more powerful 911 Carrera S, 4S and Targa 4S feature a 3.8-liter six-cylinder engine that makes 385-horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 310 pound-feet of torque at 4,400 rpm. At any trim, buuyers can choose between a six-speed manual transmission and the new Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) — which features seven-gears, manual gearshift, and an automatic mode. Though both leave reviewers impressed, many still prefer the traditional manual over the PDK.

According to Porsche, the fastest 911 Carrera trims are the S and 4S Coupes — which, when equipped with PDK, can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.3 seconds. The trims with the highest top speed are the 911 Carrera S Coupe and Cabriolet. They max out at 188 mph when mated to a six-speed manual transmission.The EPA estimates the 911 Carrera’s city/highway fuel economy ranges from 18/25 mpg to 19/27 mpg, depending on trim and transmission.

The 2010 Chevrolet Corvette ranks 1 out of 9 Luxury Sports Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 70 published reviews and test drives of the Chevrolet Corvette, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.”It seems there’s a certain stereotype associated with America’s sports car, one that involves a midlife crisis and gold chains on exposed chest hair, possibly accompanied by visions of the hideous Vette Mark Hamill drove in ‘Corvette Summer.’ However, you can reply with this: ‘Corvette Summer’ was 21 years ago, gold chains haven’t come back into fashion yet and the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette has nothing to do with the stereotypes — it’s simply a fantastic sports car.” — Edmunds

The Chevrolet Corvette makes a great choice for anyone in the market for a sports car. It combines the quick and sporty nature of high-priced exotics with the practicality and affordability of a daily driver.”The Corvette is fast fun. These are reasonably practical sports cars that cost thousands less than rivals with similar performance, making them great choices.” — Consumer Guide

Since its introduction in 1953, the Corvette has combined sexy styling with high-end performance that still rivals the meanest of sports cars. “[T]he Corvette really is what General Motors does best,” writes Popular Mechanics. “No matter what the financial condition of the company, this is an amazing machine that delivers spectacular performance without throwing aside all considerations of economy.” Best of all, the ‘Vette has comfortable seats, a large cargo hold (in the coupe) and provides great fuel economy too. Altogether, there’s a lot to love about this American icon.

If you’re in the market for a luxury sports car, also consider the Porsche Boxster and Cayman — which have no issues keeping pace with the much-loved Corvette and even trump it in terms of interior luxury. If, however, your only concern is speed, make sure you test drive the Lotus Exige.

Though largely a carryover from the 2009 model year, the Corvette receives an all-new Grand Sport trim — which features enhanced performance engineering and Z06-styling. The Corvette is available in two body styles, coupe and convertible, and a variety of trims. High-performance Z06 and ZR1 models are also available.

Be sure to check for current Chevy deals that may be available on a new Corvette. Buy a 2009 or 2010 model before November 30 and take advantage of GM’s new 60-day money-back guarantee.”Maybe 26 mpg isn’t fuel efficient to Vespa jockeys, but for a car with the Vette’s speed and fun potential, it’s untouchable.” — Car and Driver

With performance capabilities matching those of more expensive exotics, reviewers find that the Corvette is a bargain-priced Ferrari — and performs every bit as wonderful as that sounds. New for 2010 is the Corvette Grand Sport, which replaces the 2009 model’s Z51 package.

Standard on the 2010 Corvette is a 430-horsepower 6.2-liter V8 engine and six-speed manual transmission. The new Corvette Grand sport features 436 horsepower, but only when equipped with an optional two-mode exhaust system. A six-speed paddle shift transmission with automatic mode is optional. According to the EPA, the manual Corvette has a city/highway fuel economy of 16/26 mpg, while the automatic earns 15/25 mpg.

The 2010 Smart ForTwo ranks 26 out of 29 Affordable Small Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 53 published reviews and test drives of the Smart ForTwo, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.”Miniaturized motoring exemplified, the Smart Fortwo fulfills the basic needs of urban commuters with two spacious seats and enough cargo room to haul a few bags of groceries. It’s cheap, but attractive inside, and the power top can also open halfway to act as a sunroof.” — Car and Driver

The 2010 Smart Fortwo is beloved by reviewers for its cute looks and excellent fuel economy. Even so, safety concerns, a sluggish gearshift and other drawbacks are enough to give some reviewers pause.”The Smart ForTwo is a radical design statement that favors minuscule exterior dimensions, tight-quarters maneuverability, and fuel efficiency over pleasant road manners and passenger or cargo space. ForTwo offers unparalleled dexterity in congested urban commuting, but its relatively high price and very limited versatility will likely limit its appeal for many shoppers.” — Consumer Guide

At only about five feet wide, the Smart Fortwo is by far the tiniest car in its class. That fact makes it even more impressive that reviewers are floored by the Fortwo’s spacious interior, which offers plenty of room for two adults, even if they’re on the tall side. Its small size also helps out in another area — maneuverability. The Fortwo is unparalleled in its ability to squeeze into tiny parking spaces and spots between cars in traffic. The Smart is even economical, with a low starting price and a good fuel economy rating.

Still, the Fortwo has a couple of notable drawbacks. Its small size is its biggest asset, but it’s also its biggest weakness. The Smart’s slight dimensions mean that it’s susceptible to crosswind wander — meaning the wind can literally push this car off course. Additionally, reviewers have a hard time imagining that the Smart would survive in a face-off with a larger car, let alone an SUV.

Beyond the Fortwo’s safety concerns, it also has poor acceleration, even in a class not known for speed. It is low on utility since it offers seating for just two and only 12 cubic feet of cargo space (and that’s only if you’re willing to obscure the rear window). Test drivers also complain loudly about the car’s sluggish transmission and the fact that the engine requires premium gasoline.

If you’re drawn to the Fortwo for its low price, also consider the Nissan Versa. It has a base price that is over $2,000 less than the Fortwo and offers a spacious cabin with comfortable seats in both the front and rear. If you’re looking for a car that will stand out from the crowd, check out the Kia Soul. It does cost around $1,300 more than the Fortwo, but it has a similarly funky look that is sure to turn heads. Furthermore, it offers one of the longest warranties in its class, has comfortable seating for up to four passengers and offers more standard features. Plus, the Soul is a 2010 IIHS “Top Safety Pick.”

For 2010, the Smart Fortwo continues to be offered in pure coupe, passion coupe and passion cabriolet (convertible) trims. “The tiny Smart is good on gas, a snap to park, and easily sparks conversations. However, it has a harsh ride, clumsy handling, and an automated manual transmission that has the worst gear shift quality we’ve experienced. While the special package does add visual flourish, it may not address critical weaknesses.” — Consumer Reports

Reviewers have mixed feelings about the 2010 Smart Fortwo’s performance. On the one hand, its small size means it has great gas mileage and maneuverability. Still, the Fortwo suffers from poor acceleration, even worse braking performance and a premium gasoline requirement — so its great fuel economy may not translate into as much savings as some buyers may hope for.

The Fortwo comes standard with a one-liter three-cylinder engine that makes 71 horsepower. The engine is mated to a five-speed automated manual transmission. Reviewers are less than impressed with the Fortwo’s acceleration from a stop, calling it sluggish. Even worse, the transmission has a slow shifting response that earns some negative reviews.

There aren’t many cars in the Smart’s price range that offer decent acceleration, but the Toyota Yaris offers a zippier ride than the Smart while still boasting a high 29/35 mpg city/highway fuel economy. Moreover, it only costs about $300 more than the Smart but can provide room for four passengers and even more cargo.

The following is a performance-capsule review of the 2010 DBS. It is based on our analysis of 14 published reviews and test drives.”It’s tremendous fun to run up behind an SUV with adolescent boys in the back and watch as, their noses pressed against the rear window, their little minds become permanently warped with car fever. Their mouths go slack, their eyes spin. The Aston is the end of automotive innocence for them. Xbox will never be the same.” — Los Angeles Times

The 2010 Aston Martin DBS is a high-priced, exotic sports grand tourer. It’s the type of car people drive to make a statement that almost no one can match.”In a feat we hardly thought possible, Aston has made the DBS coupe even more attractive by removing its roof. Beautifully detailed inside and out, the Volante oozes luxury and style and provides a thrilling experience on an winding road. One of the world’s greatest tanning salons.” — Car and DriverThe Aston Martin DBS is a performance-tuned variant of the Aston Martin DB9, an exotic sports car that’s widely praised for its mammoth V12 engine, elegant interior cabin and sultry exterior design.

More exotic and exclusive than ever, the DBS features enhanced performance features — including 40 additional horsepower, superior interior refinement and show-stopping sex appeal to spare. It carries an expensive price tag too. However, critics say that few cars can provide as much satisfaction as this rare beauty. Left Lane News describes the DBS as “an ultra-refined grand touring supercar that handles beautifully, sounds like thunder when pressed, and has beautiful lines to boot.”

The DBS coupe carries into the 2010 model year unchanged. An all-new Volante trim — which features a convertible soft-top — is available. Its performance components match its coupe sibling.”The DBS is a modified version of Aston’s already highly desirable DB9. Like Daniel Craig’s muscular, tuxedo-clad Bond, the DBS is strikingly handsome, yet its bulging fenders and more chiseled fascia give the impression that it can kick your teeth in if you challenge it.” — Edmunds

The 2010 Aston Martin DBS packs the three P’s: power, prestige and panache. But given its lofty sticker price, buying one is extreme and irrational. If you can afford to make such a decision, lucky you — you’ve done something right in your life.

The Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano is the DBS’s primary competitor. It packs over 100 more horsepower, blasts from 0 to 60 in the low three-second range, and provides greater sports car handling. However, the 599 GTB Fiorano starts around $15K more. Still, that’s pocket change to folks shopping in this class.

In the end, deciding between the two may just come down to personal preference. However, serious shoppers should test drive both — as some critics find that the DBS is better suited for everyday driving.The DBS may not be as fast or agile as competitors like the Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano, but it’s every bit as satisfying. This high-performance grand tourer riles the senses and burns rubber like few cars can.

The DBS is equipped with a 5.9-liter V12 engine that generates 510 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 570 pound-feet of torque at 5,750 rpm. It is available with two transmissions — a six-speed manual transmission or a Touchtronic 2 six-speed with an electronic shift-by-wire control system. According to Aston Martin, the DBS can reach a top speed of 191 mph and accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in just 4.3 seconds.The EPA reports that the DBS has a city/highway fuel economy of 11/17 mpg when equipped with a manual transmission. With the automatic, fuel efficiency increases to 12/18 mpg.

The rear-wheel-drive DBS features rack-and-pinion, Servotronic speed-sensitive power-assisted steering, as well as an independent front/rear double wishbone suspension with an Adaptive Damping System (ADS) and Track mode. Bringing the DBS to a halt are ventilated carbon ceramic disc brakes, as well as a long list of brake and stability enhancing features — including an Anti-lock Braking System, Dynamic Stability Control, Traction Control, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution and Emergency Brake Assist.

The 2010 Acura ZDX ranks 9 out of 17 Luxury Midsize SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 14 published reviews and test drives of the Acura ZDX, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.”Although the ZDX is mainly aimed at couples whose kids are grown, it’s stylish enough to appeal to some singles and roomy enough for families with one or two small kids. However, the vehicle’s high price, tight rear-seat compartment, and lack of a third row of seats make it impractical for many families.” — BusinessWeek

The 2010 Acura ZDX is an all-new midsize luxury crossover that competes directly with the BMW X6. It boasts stunning looks, a sporty driving experience and a downright sumptuous interior. Still, the ZDX doesn’t provide the utility expected of an SUV.”With the ZDX, Acura has produced a uniquely designed car with a level of luxury greater than previous models from the company. The drive quality isn’t terribly remarkable, and neither is the fuel economy, but the cabin technology pushes Acura toward the cutting edge.” — CNET

Based on the MDX platform, the ZDX is Acura’s new flagship SUV. Acura describes it as a “four-door sports coupe” because of its steeply sloped windshield, but reviewers differ on how it should be classified. The ZDX’s appealing exterior is more stylish than most SUVs and it features a surprisingly car-like ride. It sits higher than any sedan but doesn’t provide the extra cargo space or rear-seat room sedan owners usually associate with an SUV.

The ZDX is ideal for those who want a luxurious all-wheel-drive ride but don’t need much utility. Motor Trend, which named the ZDX as a contender for 2010 Sport/Utility of Year, explains: “If you want an Acura for family road trips, buy an MDX. The ZDX is designed for couples — trendy youngsters or fifty-something empty nesters — who want a vehicle that not only stands out in the valet line at a hip hotel, but is a comfortable and capable ride for quick getaway trips, regardless of the weather or the road surface.”  The ZDX is also a contender for Car and Driver’s 2010 “10Best” award.

The ZDX comes with a base price in the mid-$40,000 range. While that may seem expensive for an SUV that doesn’t provide many SUV-like traits, it’s quite a bargain when compared to its direct competitors. The similarly chic (and similarly impractical) BMX X6 starts at nearly $57,000. The Infiniti FX, another stylish SUV, starts at about the same price as the Acura, but isn’t as well equipped. If you are willing to accept the compromises that come with the coupe styling — and coupes are all about style — ZDX is one terrific piece of work.” — USA TODAY

The ZDX comes with a powerful V6 engine as well as a capable all-wheel drive system. Test drivers say it’s fun to drive, although there are a few complaints about its steering. The ZDX comes with a 3.7-liter V6 that makes 300 horsepower (the same engine is used in the Acura MDX). It’s paired with a six-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters, which test drivers say shifts seamlessly. Most reviewers say it offers ample power, although one or two say it’s not quite peppy enough for the ZDX’s weight.

The EPA has not yet rated the ZDX, but Acura expects it to achieve 16 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway. This is about average for the luxury midsize SUV class — slightly better than the Acura MDX and BMW X6, but short of the Lexus RX 350’s excellent 18/25 rating. The ZDX comes standard with Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive, which contributes to its sporty ride. However, some reviewers report steering feel is too numb. The Integrated Dynamic System (IDS) active damper system, available with the Advance Package, stiffens suspension and increases steering feel for a sportier driving experience.

The 2010 Aston Martin DB9 ranks 4 out of 7 Exotic Sports Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 38 published reviews and test drives of the Aston Martin DB9, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.The DB9’s beauty is clear to see, inside and out. It may be the highest-quality Aston Martin ever built; it exhibits jewellike attention to detail and combines high chassis technology and the cachet of a sonorous V-12 engine. Mahvelous. Simply mahvelous.” — Motor Trend

The 2010 Aston Martin DB9 earns praise for its elegant, heart-pounding design, luxurious appointments, and thrilling performance capabilities. It conveys power and exclusivity like few vehicles can.”The DB9 Volante is almost the perfect Hollywood car — sporty enough for high-speed runs up Mulholland Drive or over Angeles Crest Highway and stylish enough to stand out on Rodeo Drive without looking pretentious or gaudy.” — Automobile Magazine

Introduced in 2004 as the successor to Aston Martin’s legendary DB7, the DB9 has quickly risen to become one of the most admired exotic sports cars available today. In addition to a classy, awe-inspiring exterior design, the DB9 features first-rate interior accommodations typical of most exotics at this price point. What’s more, its state-of-the-art engineering allows it to compete with class-leading powerhouses manufactured by Lamborghini and Ferrari.

The DB9 is not perfect, but its drawbacks are negligible. Its back seat doesn’t accommodate average-size adults – though no exotic sports car does. And, like most of its competitors, it lacks practical cargo room. What’s more, test drivers note that its performance abilities aren’t as hardcore as some of its rivals. That, however, is counter-balanced by the fact that few of its rivals are as comfortable to handle as the DB9.

All in all, reviewers admire this powerful exotic street machine.”The new DB9 is an assault on Porsche — and all other world-class sports car manufacturers, for that matter,” writes Forbes. “It takes Aston’s credibility as a sports car builder to a new level and is one of the most exciting cars an automaker has ever produced. It also challenges the iconic styling of a vehicle like the Porsche 911 with drop-dead looks of its own.”

If you’re in the market for an exotic sports car and want to steer clear of wildly styled rides like the Lamborghini Murcielago, consider the similarly-priced Ferrari California. It features slightly less horsepower, but sprints to 60 mph from a standstill in less than four seconds. Plus, it comes equipped with a retractable hard top. The DB9 carries into the 2010 model year unchanged. It’s offered in two body styles: coupe and Volante (convertible).”This car was created, not built. If God needed wheels, they’d be an Aston Martin DB9 convertible.” — Detroit News

Auto critics say that the DB9 must be experienced in order to fully appreciate how masterfully engineered it is. While other high-end sports cars may be faster, reviewers agree that few handle as well as the DB9.Its Lamborghini and Ferrari competitors may be faster, but critics don’t seem to mind. The DB9’s mighty powertrain is nothing to scoff at. Equipped with a 5.9-liter V12 engine, the DB9 produces 470 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 443 pound-feet of torque at 5,000 rpm.

It’s available with two transmissions — a six-speed manual transmission or a Touchtronic 2 six-speed with an electronic shift-by-wire control system. According to Aston Martin, the DB9 can reach a top speed of 190 mph and accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.6 seconds. The EPA rates the DB9’s city/highway fuel economy at 11/17 mpg when equipped with a manual transmission. With the automatic, fuel economy increases to 13/20 mpg.

Test drivers admire the DB9’s sporty handling dynamics — which are made possible by its perfectly balanced weight distribution and advanced drive technology. When compared, critics choose the coupe over the Volante, as the latter’s loss of rigidity and altered suspension settings render it more suitable for cruising than sports performance. Both, however, leave critics impressed.

The 2010 Lotus Exige ranks 5 out of 9 Luxury Sports Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 40 published reviews and test drives of the Lotus Exige, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.The 2010 Lotus Exige is a rocket on the track, combining mind-blowing speeds with superb handling dynamics. It isn’t, however, suitable for daily use. Its stiff suspension and lack of luxury make sure of that.”[T]his compact little collection of wings, vents, spoilers, handling, oomph, and grip was built to order from the happiest days of your childhood.” — Jalopnik

First and foremost, the Exige is engineered to perform. Everything else caters to that purpose, or comes second. For instance, superb aerodynamics are to thank for the Exige’s wild style. The fact that its interior is devoid of most of the creature comforts its rivals offer as standard equipment has more to do with keeping weight down than saving shoppers a few bucks. If you can’t see the logic in that, a Lotus isn’t for you.

Edmunds explains, “The Exige…exists for those live-fast die-hard enthusiasts who don’t give a crap about cupholders, sat-nav, luggage capacity, impact harshness, HVAC, NVH, ESP, XYZ, or any other nifty electro-mechanic nuisance with an obscure acronym.”"Certainly the Exige S isn’t for everyone, but for the true enthusiast who reveres performance-oriented driving dynamics … this is as undefiled a road car that money can buy.” — Automobile.com

To say the Exige delivers would be an understatement. Test drivers report that this machine blasts across straight-aways and through twists and turns like few others can. Reviewers, however, warn that its stiff suspension, low slung cabin and lack of adequate cargo room make it unsuitable for sporty jaunts around town. However, it’s wild fire on the track.

Those in the market for a luxury sports car with a little more luxury, should check out the Porsche Cayman. It doesn’t accelerate as quickly as the Exige, but provides more horsepower, has a higher top speed and handles just as marvelously. Those looking to save a few bucks should consider the 2010 Mazda Miata. It’s not as eye-catching as the Exige, but offers mind-blowing performance for an affordable price. Plus, it features a convertible hardtop — which offers relief on hot days at the track.

For 2010, the Exige received an exterior refresh. It’s available in two trims, S and S 240.”This is a track-ready missile that shares its chassis and interior with the Elise. The Exige S, however, doesn’t have a removable top, and it has different body panels and a rear wing, the latter to increase downforce. For those interested in an all-out track toy, the Exige is an excellent choice.” — Car and Driver

Auto writers love the Exige’s high-performance engine and wonderful handling dynamics, but find it uncomfortable for daily use. Reviewers admire the Exige’s mid-mounted, supercharged 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine. While the S generates 218-horsepower at 8,000 rpm and 156 pound-feet of torque at 5,000 rpm, the more powerful S 240 produces 240-horsepower at 8,000 rpm and 170 pound-feet of torque at 5,500 rpm. Both are equipped with a six-speed close ratio manual transmission. Lotus reports a 0 to 60 mph acceleration time of 4.1 seconds with the S and 4.0 seconds with the S 240. The Exige can reach a top speed of 150 mph.