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There is much about the Lexus CT200h that doesn't make immediate sense.

The stick-shift CTS-V coupe that we had in the office recently was great fun, but the V sedan is certainly no slouch either. And its increased practicality almost makes up for its decreased sexiness (although I think the sedan might look a bit meaner). That lovely exhaust note and the mountains of horsepower are quick to bring a smile. The paddle buttons to manually control the transmission aren't all that satisfying, but when left in regular mode or bumped over to the Sport setting, the automatic trans does very nice work indeed. The steering is excellent, too, and I love the optional Alcantara-covered wheel.

If you haven't noticed an abundance of current M3s on the road, you can't be accused of not paying attention. They're just not selling that well. When we first drove the V-8-powered monster from Munich, we were told that this M3 would sell twice as many units as the previous, E46-chassis car.

Don't confuse the 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport with the Mitsubishi Outlander. They share a name, but these two vehicles are distinctly different. If you're familiar with Land Rover's Range Rover and Range Rover Sport, Mitsubishi's naming scheme might make sense. The Outlander Sport isn't necessarily sportier than it's bigger, older brother. Rather, it's a significantly smaller vehicle that competes in an entirely different segment. With two rows of seats, available all-wheel drive, and a frugal four-cylinder, the Outlander Sport is entering the crowded compact crossover market as a serious latecomer.

A weekend driving this mid-size pickup reminded me how much I miss owning such a handy workhorse. In stark contrast to the F-150, Sierra, and Ram monster trucks, the Dakota is significantly more manageable, fuel efficient, and socially acceptable. After taking a 350-mile round trip on Saturday, my Sunday assignment was pulling a trailer weighing at least twice the rated tow rating. A lack of grades, high temperatures, and traffic helped accomplish that ambitious chore without difficulty, although I don't recommend it for towing novices. With ample room for five, four doors for convenient access, and a 64-inch-long bed, this Dakota is the ideal suburban-lifestyle support vehicle. A longer bed, 4x4 driveline, and V-8 are not on my list of essentials. So before you follow the herd with a too-big truck, take a serious look at this highly practical alternative.

It's taken a long time for the new Jeep Grand Cherokee to finally make its debut, and it appears to have been worth the wait. The exterior is attractive, but it's inside that the change is really apparent. The surfaces are well matched, and everything seems to be made of quality materials, from the door panels to the dash to the climate control and stereo knobs. The fact that the company that built this vehicle was on the verge of going under just a year ago makes the Grand Cherokee seem even more impressive.