Mercedes-AMG CLA45 4MATIC Price: $50,875

This steroid-enhanced version of the CLA-class comes with a potent 375-hp turbo four—need we say more? We will: There’s also a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic, all-wheel drive, and a sport-tuned chassis. The result is zesty performance by almost every measure. Unfortunately some cheap plastics and poor panel fits mar the interior, and the rear seat is extremely tight. Check a few options boxes and the CLA45 AMG can be a tough sell. Note: This model replaces the Mercedes-Benz version.

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Buick Verano Price: $21,990 - $27,480

Take Buick’s serene, smooth-riding luxury and distill it into a compact size, and you get the Verano. The sole engine is a 180-hp four-cylinder with a six-speed automatic transmission driving the front wheels. Technology includes standard 4G LTE Wi-Fi connectivity and an available 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The top-spec Leather trim gets Bose audio, leather seats, and 18-inch aluminum wheels. Act fast if it is appealing to you: Rumor is that 2017 will be the Verano’s final year.

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Volvo S90 Price: $47,945 - $56,445

This svelte sedan is the XC90’s under-the-skin twin; as a Volvo, it mixes style with safety in a decidedly Swedish way. The powertrains, however, are slightly less sporty. There’s a choice of four-cylinder engines: a 250-hp turbo (T5) or a 316-hp turbocharged and supercharged model (T6). Both pair with a silky eight-speed automatic. The ride is quiet and well controlled; steering is heavier than we’d like. Brakes are excellent. Tech includes Pilot Assist, which steers the car at up to 80 mph.

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Lincoln Continental Price: $45,645 - $66,000

Dramatic styling, sumptuous interiors, and the latest tech are on hand to restore luxury-car relevance to the Continental. The interior is handsomely appointed with heated, 10-way adjustable seats; a 10-speaker audio system; and a chrome-trimmed dash. Engines include a 305-hp and a 335-hp V-6, both standard with front-drive; all-wheel drive is optional. The top engine is a 400-hp V-6 with all-wheel drive. The ride, however, is harsh and not in keeping with the car’s luxury aspirations.

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Mercedes-AMG E43 Price: $73,325

This autobahn burner is headed for a freeway near you, packing a twin-turbo 3.0-liter V-6 with 396 hp. A fast-shifting nine-speed automatic shoots that power to the road via 4MATIC all-wheel drive. Mercedes estimates a 0-60 time of 4.5 seconds; top speed is 155 mph. The interior has front sport seats and red stitching throughout; red seatbelts make for maximum redness. An air suspension imbues the ride and handling with the right mix of sport and comfort. Look for the E43 in early 2017.

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