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.

Previewed at last winter's Detroit Auto Show, the redesigned 2004 Malibu shares its front-drive Epsilon platform with latest 9-3 from GM-owned Saab. Of course, the Malibu will cost far less than the Saab, again slotting below Impala on Chevy's price ladder. Besides a conventional 4-dr with angular new styling and slightly more interior space, the '04 offers a new "extended sedan" called Malibu Maxx. It's a hatchback with a sedan-like profile and a 6-inch longer wheelbase. As on some minivans and SUVs, the Maxx rear seat slides back and forth for extra rear leg room or cargo space. Both body styles include a 60/40 split-fold rear seat. Maxx options are expected to include rear DVD entertainment and a class-exclusive rear-seat sunroof. The Maxx looks a smart move, as many buyers crave the room and versatility of a midsize wagon but don't like the uncool wagon image. We'll know soon enough how smart it is. Malibu reinstates 4-cyl power for '04 with the 140-hp 2.2-liter "Ecotec" engine that powers some Saturns and other GM cars. A new 3.5-liter version of GM's familiar pushrod V6 is available. Both team with 4-speed automatic transmission. Well have more details shortly, so keep checking back with us.

Despite 0-percent financing and other incentives, Malibu sales were down again in 2002, sliding 4 percent after the previous year's 14.8-percent drop.