Perennial Best Buys Honda Accord and Toyota Camry continue to shine with refinement, model diversity, and comfort. Both offer economic 4-cylinder or sporty V6 power, have room for four adults, and are reasonably priced. Camry was new last year and Accord holds that honor this year.

Recommended models include the import-flavored Chevy Malibu, sporty Chrysler Sebring/Dodge Stratus twins, and the good-looking Pontiac Grand Prix. All come with V6 power, offer lots of standard equipment, and have pleasing road manners that will suit a variety of driving styles. Despite relatively high prices, the refined Volkswagen Passat is also Recommended. Sedan and wagon models are offered with a choice of front- or all-wheel drive and four-, six-, or class-exclusive eight-cylinder power. Budget-level interior materials and assembly disappointments aside, the Nissan Altima is Recommended for its impressive interior room, road manners, and reasonable price.

Century should stay pretty much through the '04 season, after which the name transfers to a lower-priced version of the redesigned 2005 Regal. No specifics yet on what the Regal will be like, but we don't expect a styling or technical pacesetter. Meantime, Century keeps gaining sales while Regal keeps losing. The 2002 results show a 15.2-percent year-to-year increase for Buick's "value-priced" midsize vs. an 18.5 percent loss for its upscale sibling.