ok, explain how my list is not valid in your jaded eyes.
empowah's list is not bad either, but i have valid reasons for my pecking order.
1. 07 Altima- this car should have the best all around combination of features, power, handling, style, interior, pricing. cvt, bluetooth, keyless start, killer v6, good prices, updated style. No major weaknesses.
2A. Accord-get by on rep. dull style. still, good power, decently executed if dated interior. lots of tranny and engine choices. they say Honda makes reliable cars.
2B. Aura- 250+ hp, 6 speed paddle shifters, style, great build quality, obscenely good pricing, killer saturn customer service. V6 power for 10-15k less than a v6 passat.
2C. Passat 2.0T- nice car...still its just a 4 popper. The interior is not as well executed as the previous version, neither is the exterior. Price is good for a four cylinder, but the v6 price is a phaeton like pipe dream.
3A. Milan- style, handling, price. Available AWD. Needs more motor and sexier interior. Could use more room.
3B. Fusion- see 3a, except with Gilette grille
4A. Cam-lee- good hp. that's about it. hybrid availability (although its far too pricey and can't come close to advertised mpg)......dull looks and diminishing interior quality. Recent recalls and tranny problems make entire car suspect. not a drivers car by any stretch. pricey for what you get. crappy toyota dealers. computer programmer teal green is sold out through 09.
4B. Impala- great value, mpg, e85, handsomely bland design, DoD. built solid.
4C. 07 Sebring- handsome interior, lots of neat features. German engineering.
5A. Mazda 6- handles well. Sporty Asian look, if you like it. Buzz bomb duratec motor, interior needs help, lacks a bit of room.
5B. Malibu SS- other Malibu models are looks challenged. SS handles well and has good power, while lacking OHC. Great value. lower versions of malibu have multiple issues.
5C. G6- not much to say. new engine and 6 speed on top version this year
5D. Galant Ralliart- nice exterior, new 250+ ho engine, 5 speed auto, handles great, priced good, great reliability ratings.
6. LaCrosse- old world taurus style. available 3.6, 4 sp auto only. a bit cramped with some compromised ergonomics.
7. Grand Prix- pancake roof. overhangs ribbed taillights. small block! 4 spped auto . good value. reliable. tight back seat. cheap center stack.
8. Subaru Legacy- pricey on some models. a little bit small. good quality and handsome interior.
9. Chery- better than toyota.
10. Sonata- good powertrain and decent driving. interior is a mess. rehashed escort style is ok to a point but is not distinctive or original. Lots of these in fleets. good value. worry about whether it holds up. third world plastics. mouse fur seats.
11. Kia Optima same as 10 except the v6 sucks.
12. Susucki Verona- in line 6 with no power and piss poor mpg.