Autos: Review the Class of 2012

Audi has only enhanced its reputation as one of the industry leaders when it comes to both exterior and interior styling with the newest update of its midsize mainstay, which also delivers more technology and improved mileage.

Miles per gallon (MPG): 19 city/25 highway (I-4), 28/33 (V-6)
Engine options: 2.0-liter turbo I-4, 211 horsepower (hp), 258 pound-feet of torque; 3.0-liter supercharged V-6, 310 hp, 325 lb-ft.
Manufacturer’s suggested retail price: $42,575
Cost fully loaded: $60,000

The company’s smallest crossover utility vehicles undergoes a significant update that results in a more handsome, solid, and versatile product for 2012.

MPG: 19/25
Engine options: 3.0-liter I-6, 221 hp, 240 lb-ft.
Manufacturer’s suggested retail price: $36,750
Cost fully loaded: $45,000 (est.)

Chrysler’s flagship sedan has always been an eye-catcher, but the 2012 update gives it a little more curve than before. It’s also a more lavishly equipped offering, with additional versions —including the luxurious 300S — now in the line-up. (NOTE: Chrysler Group LLC is the "Official Automobile Manufacturer" of NAR. Go here for more info on perks and deals for REALTORS®.)

MPG: 19/31 (RWD V-8 with 8-speed automatic); 15/23 (AWD V-8)
Engine options: 3.5-liter V-6, 292 hp, 260 lb-ft; 5.7-liter V-8, 363 hp, 394 lb-ft.
Manufacturer’s suggested retail price: $27,995
Cost fully loaded: $55,000

Ford shifts from a traditional truck-based compact utility vehicle to a crossover model with this complete update that also feels more luxurious. Expect improved performance and better mileage, as well. Available in early 2012 as a 2013 model.

MPG: N/A
Engine options: 1.6-liter EcoBoost I-4; 2.0-liter EcoBoost; 2.5-liter I-4. Specs TBD
Manufacturer’s suggested retail price: $20,000 (est)
Cost fully loaded: $28,000 (est)

Honda crafted the original compact crossover with the first-generation CR-V and has made a habit of delivering significant improvements — such as the one-touch, fold-down rear seats — with each subsequent edition.

MPG: 22/30 (AWD); 23/31 (FWD)
Engine options: 2.0-liter I-4, 185 hp, 163 lb-ft.
Manufacturer’s suggested retail price: $20,000 (est)
Cost fully loaded: $28,000 (est)

You may struggle to find the Korean carmaker’s latest compact offering. The Elantra may deliver a great price and budget-friendly mileage but it’s also getting raves for its striking design and surprising list of standard features.

MPG: 29/40
Engine options: 1.8-liter I-4, 148 hp, 131 lb-ft.
Manufacturer’s suggested retail price: $15,995
Cost fully loaded: $25,000

The first-generation coupe-like sedan revolutionized automotive design. Mercedes took a more evolutionary approach to the latest update, focusing on better performance and handling and adding new features.

MPG: 17/26 (CLS550)
Engine options: 4.7-liter twin-turbo V-8, 402 hp; 5.5-liter twin-turbo (AMG version) 518 hp, 516 lb-ft.
Manufacturer’s suggested retail price: $72,175 (CLS550)
Cost fully loaded: $100,000

The original M-Class was among the first true luxury SUVs, then migrated to a car-based crossover platform. The latest iteration is still more car-like in terms of its ride and handling. Also available with a diesel.

MPG: 17/22 (V-6); 20/25 (diesel)
Engine options: 3.5-liter V-6, 302 hp, 273 lb-ft; 3.0-liter V-6 turbodiesel, 240 hp, 455 lb-ft.
Manufacturer’s suggested retail price: $48,950; $51,395 diesel
Cost fully loaded: $60,000

Known for its go-anywhere SUVs, Land Rover delivered a shock when it unveiled the new Range Rover Evoque. Its striking appearance — inside and out — is complemented by a surprisingly affordable price tag.

MPG: 19/28
Engine options: 2.0-liter I-4, 240 hp, 251 lb-ft.
Manufacturer’s suggested retail price: $43,995
Cost fully loaded: $60,000

Despite the advertising hype, the newest Toyota midsize sedan is more evolutionary than revolutionary. It may face more competition than ever, but Toyota is intent on staying ahead of the crowd with this more stylish and driver-friendly model.

MPG: 25/35 (base I-4); 21/30 (3.5-liter V-6)
Engine options: 2.5-liter I-4, 178 hp, 170 lb-ft; 3.5-liter V-6, 268 hp, 248 lb-ft.
Manufacturer’s suggested retail price: $22,715
Cost fully loaded: $30,000

The Prius v is the first in what is expected to be a family of hybrids sharing the familiar Prius badge. The new model is roomier than the original hatchback.

MPG: 44/40
Engine options: 1.8-liter I-4 with single electric motor, nickel-metal hydride battery pack
Manufacturer’s suggested retail price: $27,160
Cost fully loaded: $32,000

Volkswagen’s latest midsize sedan has been “Americanized” in design and features and offers nearly full-size interior space. Meanwhile, the diesel version nearly matches the mileage of comparable hybrid products.

MPG: 28/43 (2.0-liter diesel)
Engine options: 2.0-liter turbo-diesel, 140 hp, 236 lb-ft; 2.5-liter 5-cylinder gas, 170 hp, 177 lb-ft; 3.6-liter V-6 gas, 280 hp, 258 lb-ft.
Manufacturer’s suggested retail price: $25,995 (base diesel)
Cost fully loaded: $35,000 (well-equipped SEL V-6 gas)