This diverse segment offers the widest price range and obviously our Best Buys are somewhere in between. We think that the Acura RL is a steal at $44,000 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. The refined Lexus LS 430 can't be beat for comfort and features at just under $55,000. 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 roomy Cadillac DeVille or Lexus GS 300.

Sales of Saab's senior line were essentially flat in 2001, down a mere 339 units year-to-year through the third quarter. That's quite a change from the 20-percent surge of calendar 2000, but still a commendable performance for a fairly pricey car in an uncertain economic climate.

A full redesign is due for model-year 2005, when 9-5 joins sister 9-3 on parent General Motors' Epsilon midsize platform. Despite the shared architecture, the 9-5 will remain longer, wider and heavier than 9-3, as well as more upscale in features and, of course, price. Sedan and wagon body styles should continue with a choice of several engines.

Besides redesigned 2003-model 9-3s, Saab will use the Epsilon platform for a midsize crossover wagon and perhaps a sports car. In addition, GM is reportedly considering a larger sedan to take over from the 9-5 as Saab's flagship. Sources say this could bow sometime in 2005, perhaps as an '06 model, but it's not a done deal yet. If the big Saab does go ahead, we think it will be a sort of Swedish Cadillac Seville, built on a version of GM's Sigma corporate platform, introduced with Cadillac's 2003 CTS, but with standard all-wheel drive and a Saab-sourced turbo V6 instead of a V8.