Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Premium Compact Cars are similar in size but more expensive than Compact Cars. Premium Compacts have more standard equipment and an upscale image when compared to Compact Cars.

Our Best Buys in the Premium Compact Car class are the Audi A4 and BMW 3-Series. Our Recommended picks are the Audi A3 and Saab 9-3.

New or significantly redesigned models include the Mercedes-Benz C-Class and the Volvo C30.

A redesigned TSX is being rumored for 2009 with turbo power and all-wheel drive. If that's accurate, the powertrain would likely come from Acura's RDX compact SUV. Diesel power could also be available. Parent Honda is developing 4-cyl and V6 "clean diesel" engines for several vehicles expected in the U.S. by 2009. An "oil burner" TSX, if there is one, would likely use the 4-cyl, also perhaps with a turbocharger. Intriguingly, sources believe the 2009 sedan will get a convertible companion at some point, not a coupe as once suggested. That could mean a hideaway hardtop design, though a conventional ragtop is just as likely.