Auto News 5

The Countryman is a big one for Mini - in size, certainly, but even more so in concept. As Dr. Wolfgang Armbrecht, Mini brand manager, explains: "For Mini it's a huge step - four doors, four-wheel drive, higher seating position. We weren't sure it was the right direction."

It may be another gut punch for purists, but Porsche's foray into volume products and new segments continues with a hybrid model for the new, second-generation Porsche Cayenne. However, the Cayenne S Hybrid isn't just an overweight Toyota Prius. Both the hardware and the software feature unique - or at least unusual - approaches to hybrid execution. The result is that the Porsche Cayenne doesn't drive like any other hybrid.

The bright blue hue and upright profile of this Versa reminded me of our Four Seasons Honda Fit Sport, but I'd argue that the similarities end there. Both cars run roughly $19,000 and include navigation, but the Versa has the little Honda outclassed. At this price point, Nissan adds other features like a sunroof, satellite radio, Bluetooth phone connectivity, and keyless entry/ignition.