This diverse segment offers the widest price range. It covers everything from the $34,000 Saab 9-5 to the $130,000 Mercedes-Benz SL500. Obviously our Best Buys are somewhere in between. We think that the Acura RL is a steal at $42,000 fully equipped. Though it is a front-drive V6 in a field of V8 rear-drive models, it has a great ride, plenty of power, and is quite luxurious. Mercedes-Benz E-Class, though a bit long in the tooth, also continues to impress with its impeccable road manners and luxurious comfort.

If you are looking for something a bit more sporting we recommend the BMW 5-Series. If your taste ranges more toward the luxury end, then take a look at the Cadillac DeVille or Lexus GS 300.

CLK calendar-year sales rose 6.5 percent in 2000 to just under 17,800. V8 models picked up volume at the expense of V6 versions, perhaps reflecting the year's mostly strong economy.

The introduction of redesigned 2001 C-Class sedans sets the stage for new-generation CLK cousins. They're due to be unwrapped for Europe in early 2002, which means a likely U.S. introduction that summer or fall for '03. Styling is said to be carefully evolved styling around a longer, lower and wider package whose extended wheelbase is said to provide much roomier seating for four than today's somewhat cramped 2+2 design. V6 and V8 coupes and convertibles should continue for the U.S., but the hot V8 CLK55 coupe will reportedly be replaced by a supercharged V6 CLK32 being prepped by Mercedes' AMG performance division as an even sportier challenger to BMW's racy M3. Sources put CLK32 horsepower at 354, about the same as the CLK55's V8, which should be good for 0-60 mph in just over 5 sec. And now that BMW offers an M3 convertible, expect M-B to issue a drop-top CLK32. Incidentally, CLK convertibles will keep a folding fabric top, rather than adopting a hide-away hard top like the small SLK roadster.

The new CLKs will reportedly pack more standard features and thus higher base prices than today's models. There will be new options too, including a rumored 6-speed automatic transmission sometime later. Mercedes' 4-Matic all-wheel drive is also a strong prospect for '04 or '05.