Minimally revamped for this model year, the 2009 Mercedes Benz CLS-Class is a four-door luxury sedan. It is available in two different trim levels, the base CLS550 and the high performance CLS63. A stronger chassis for the CLS63 AMG and a standard navigation unit and Bluetooth on the CLS550 are the only substantial changes for 2009. With impressive power and a sleek, European-inspired exterior, the CLS-Class is sure to make an impact on buyers. However, the steep price will rule out a great majority of consumers. Not only that, poor fuel efficiency could also be the downfall of the 2009 CLS-Class.

Inside, the Mercedes Benz CLS-Class is stocked with luxury features. Four-zone climate control, rich laurel wood trim, leather seating, and 4GB of music storage built into the audio system are all included in the base trim. A hard-drive-based in-dash navigation unit is top of the line. This system does not require the outdated DVD program. Instead, it stores up to 40GB and utilizes a Global Positioning System that projects a signal to a satellite to determine the vehicle's exact location. Not only is this type of system more reliable than a static DVD, it is much more accurate.

Fifty years ago, the Impala debuted for Chevrolet as the flagship of their car line. After being pushed to second banana, then turned into a midsize, in 2006 it returned to its original position of honor as the largest sedan in Chevy's inventory. The 2009 Chevrolet Impala carries forward the look of the 2006 with only minor changes.

Though the 2009 Ford Taurus is a result of name and design changes in the past few years, the 2009 Taurus is a carryover from the prior model year. It seems that Ford has finally gotten it right with an aerodynamic, elegant exterior and an impressive engine configuration. Superior power sets the 2009 Ford Taurus apart from the competition, like the Chrysler Sebring, and a wealth of standard features make the sedan a great pick for even the most discriminating buyers. An affordable price, technological upgrades, and Ford's Personal Safety System give the four-door sedan a wide-reaching appeal.

With four trim models starting under $18,000 (the S model starting under $15,000) the front wheel drive 2009 Ford Focus is competitive on price. SE, SES and SEL are each a step up, but all very reasonable. At 24 mpg in the city and 35 on the highway, it holds the line on gas mileage as well. Economy is not hurt by the warranty, which is competitive, if not outstanding. And to protect your investment further, Ford throws in a standard theft-deterrent system.

Economy is what drives the Focus. This is a car with a limited audience. First time drivers, college students, new families, or established families needing a dependable, but cheap, second car will find the Focus interesting.