Updated with a new, 300-horsepower inline six-cylinder engine, the 2007 BMW 335i is capable of going from zero to 60 mph in 5.3 seconds. The car comes with a standard six-speed manual or an optional six-speed Steptronic automatic transmission.

Professional test drivers warn that the gearbox is "notchy" but like the "oodles of torque" offered by the vehicle. It is considered to be among the peppier machines produced this year.

Inside the cabin, it's "pay for play," but BMW doesn't spare expenses on even standard models. Bluetooth and iDrive-based navigation are optional, and iPods and other MP3 players all work easily in the 335.