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The new Lincoln MKZ has struggled through a slow ramp-up of production but in the past two months has finally gotten on track. From the get-go, Lincoln has been offering the MKZ with three powertrains: a 2.0-liter EcoBoost four, a 3.7-liter V-6, and a gas-electric hybrid. Already, the hybrid is looking to be a much more important player for the MKZ than it was with the previous generation, and based on our first encounter with it -- as well as the hybrid's pricing and mpg ratings -- we'd say that the gas-electric's larger role is deserved.

Denial is not just a river in Egypt. The BMW 3 Series Coupe that we've known and loved for decades has just become the 2014 BMW 4 Series. Why the name change? Because BMW wants you to think that the 2014 4 Series is more special than the plebian four-door 3 Series. To that effect, Bimmer is taking the Spinal Tap approach with the 4. "The new 4 Series Coupe represents something more than its BMW 3 Series cousins," says the press release, " 3+1, if you will." That logic parallels Spinal Tap's Nigel Tufnel's explanation as to why his amps go up to 11 instead of the usual 10 -- "Well, it's one louder, isn't it? It's not ten…these go to eleven."

Someone looking for an affordable compact sedan could do a lot worse than the Sentra. It has a roomy interior, modern styling, and a pleasant driving experience. I quite like the scaled-down-Altima looks, especially with all the chrome accents on this SR model. The four-cylinder engine and continuously variable transmission are perfectly smooth and responsive around town, although any acceleration other than "leisurely" results in a horrible moaning noise. The cabin is nicely appointed and shows no obvious signs of cheapness. All in all, there's little to complain about. The Sentra is no where near as interesting to drive, as well-rounded, or as attractive as a Ford Focus or Mazda 3, my favorite compact sedans, but it's not a bad choice in this segment.