Pros
Superbly refined in every respect, dizzying array of high-tech features, classic styling, impressive performance.

Cons
Complex navigation and audio systems, cramped rear seat.

What's New for 2006
The AMG Sport package, with AMG-designed bumpers, side sills and 18-inch alloy wheels, is now standard. The CL600 loses its integrated cell phone but picks up some former options as standard equipment, among these Keyless Go, an electronic trunk closer and a heated steering wheel.

2006 Mercedes-Benz C55 AMG reviews

Prodigious power, predictable handling and a sharp-looking interior make this one of the most satisfying sport sedans on the market.

Pros
Tire-shredding torque available at any speed, crisp and predictable handling, still comfortable despite its sporting intentions.

Cons
No manual transmission available, tight backseat, not as involving a drive as Audi's S4.

What's New for 2006
The high-performance C55 receives no significant changes this year.

2006 Mazda MAZDA6 review

Tired of the dull, sensible, vanilla-flavored family car? If you're willing to give up some passenger room, the Mazda 6 promises to add a dash of zing to your daily commute whether you're looking for a sedan, hatchback or wagon.

Pros
More fun to drive than most family cars, slick-shifting manual transmission, smooth power delivery, nicely appointed interior, multiple body styles.

Cons
Tight rear-seat accommodations, engines lack the vigor of the competition's, interior materials aren't always top quality.

What's New for 2006
For 2006, all vehicles in the Mazda 6 lineup have revised front and rear fascias, while sport package-equipped models get a new grille and side sill design. The optional automatic transmission on four-cylinder models is upgraded from a four-speed unit to a five-speed. Additionally, the V6 has been modified to improve exhaust emissions, resulting in 5 less horsepower (now 215). ABS and traction control are now standard on all i models, while all s models now come with an eight-way power driver seat, an alarm system and a standard side and side curtain airbags.

2006 Mazda MAZDA5 review

Mazda may be taking a risk bringing its compact Mazda 5 minivan to the U.S., but if buyers can get honest about their needs for space and power, the 5 has enough of the right stuff to succeed.

Pros
Low price, generous features list, precise steering, stellar fuel economy for a minivan.

Cons
Can seem underpowered when fully loaded with people and gear, extremely cramped third row.

What's New for 2006
The Mazda 5 is a new, affordably priced compact minivan that seats six

2006 Lotus Exige reviews

By most measures, the Lotus Exige is a miserable little car. But Lotus didn't build it to be a grocery-getter. As a weekend track-day weapon, the Exige is unsurpassed.

Pros
Ultralightweight chassis, uninhibited steering, racetrack-oriented design, low volume ensures rarity.

Cons
Spartan interior, difficult entry and exit, poor outward visibility, peaky power delivery, ride quality more Formula One than grand touring, limited dealer network.

What's New for 2006
The Lotus Exige is a fixed-roof version of the Lotus Elise; it's being imported into the North American market for the first time in 2006.

2006 Lotus Elise reviews

For those willing to put up with its heavily compromised utility and comfort, the Lotus Elise provides the most unfiltered driving experience of any roadster sold today.

Pros
Ultralightweight chassis, uninhibited steering, supercar performance without the supercar price, low volume ensures rarity.

Cons
Spartan interior, difficult entry and exit, peaky power delivery, ride quality more Formula One than grand touring, limited dealer network.

What's New for 2006
Changes for 2006 include an available traction control system, an optional limited-slip differential, lightweight forged alloy wheels, a matte black appearance package and an air conditioning-delete option. Daytime running lights are now standard, along with LED taillights with integrated reflectors. The ProBax seat padding from NuBax has been upgraded for increased comfort and last year's aluminum pedal set has been replaced by a lighter (though now steel) pedal set.

2006 Maybach 57 reviews

Sophisticated and highly customizable, the Maybach 57 is a truly remarkable ultraluxury sedan. Only in conspicuous splendor does it lose out to the Rolls-Royce Phantom.

Pros
Unbelievably luxurious cabin, smooth ride, handles and accelerates well for a 6,000-pound vehicle.

Cons
Too many controls pulled from Mercedes' parts bin, feels cumbersome in heavy traffic.

What's New for 2006
For 2006, a new Maybach 57 S style debuts. The S has a more powerful engine, larger wheels, a sport-tuned suspension, and special interior and exterior appointments. All 2006 Maybach models come standard with the Parking Assist System, which had previously been an extra-cost option. There's also a newly available Business Package, which can essentially turn a Maybach into an executive office on wheels.

2006 Maybach 62 reviews

Sophisticated and highly customizable, the Maybach 62 is a truly remarkable ultraluxury sedan. Only in conspicuous splendor does it lose out to the Rolls-Royce Phantom.

Pros
Unbelievably luxurious cabin, smooth ride, handles and accelerates well for a 6,000-pound vehicle.

Cons
Too many controls pulled from Mercedes' parts bin, cumbersome in heavy traffic.

What's New for 2006
All 2006 Maybach models come standard with the Parking Assist System, which had previously been an extra-cost option. There's also a newly available Business Package, which can essentially turn a Maybach into an executive office on wheels.

2006 Lincoln Town Car reviews

If you want a big American luxury car for a reasonable price, the Town Car is the only game in town, but similarly priced European and Japanese luxury sedans are better in almost every respect.

Pros
Roomy interior, quiet cabin, huge trunk, good crash test scores, availability of a long-wheelbase model.

Cons
Interior looks ancient compared to European and Japanese sedans in this price range, missing the latest luxury features, poor resale value.

What's New for 2006
Changes for 2006 are limited to new wheel designs.

2006 Lincoln Navigator reviews

A spacious and stylish full-size luxury SUV, but the Escalade is more powerful and the Lexus LX 470 more refined.

Pros
Lots of room for passengers and cargo, handles well for its size, stylish interior, smooth drivetrain, extensive list of luxury features.

Cons
A few low-grade interior materials, can't match the Escalade's power, some confusing controls.

What's New for 2006
Only minor package revisions are in store for the 2006 Lincoln Navigator.