2009 Honda Fit

Retaining compact dimensions similar to the previous model, the new 2009 Honda Fit sports entirely new sheetmetal and more functionality inside. An improved version of Honda's Magic Seat allows the rear seats to fold flat without removing the headrests, even when the front chairs are pushed all the way back. The long-object, utility, and tall-object (where the cushion folds up to accommodate items like plants) modes from the previous car are available again, and a hidden bin under the driver's side rear seat provides even more storage. Techies will be satisfied by the availability of Honda's navigation system with voice-recognition and a 6.5 inch screen, as well as a USB audio interface that's iPod compatible. Both the Fit and Fit Sport receive a new 1.5 liter 4 with V-TEC mated to either a five-speed manual or automatic transmission (with paddle-shifters on the Sport), and the Sport also comes with 16-inch tires, up from the standard model's 15s. Safety is improved with available stability control, standard front, side, and curtain airbags, and ABS. Along with the Mini, Honda's Fit began to prove to Americans that small and economical cars could also be fun. With a host of improvements, the new version should continue the trend.

More on the 2009 Honda Fit:
2009 Honda Fit to make New York show debut

2009 Dodge Challenger

The 2009 Dodge Challenger comes in three grades: the 425 horsepower SRT8, 375 horsepower R/T, and 250 horsepower SE, all standard with a healthy dose of retro-modern style. With the Challenger SRT8 serving as the halo model, we guess that means the 375 horsepower, 404 lb-ft of torque Challenger R/T serves as a "midlevel model." The numbers above are achieved when the Challenger R/T driver has the six-speed manual -- the R/T with a five-speed automatic makes do with 370 horsepower and 398 lb-ft of torque. Challenger R/Ts go from 0-60 mph in less than six seconds, Dodge says.

More on the 2009 Dodge Challenger lineup:
First Look: 2009 Dodge Challenger

2009 Acura TSX

Essentially the same car as the European version of the Honda Accord, the 2009 Acura TSX will feature the larger of the two Euro engine options. That means a new 2.4-liter four-cylinder motor producing 201 horsepower and 172 lb-ft of torque up front, featuring five percent more torque and more mid-range power than the motor it replaces. These gains are attributed to a higher compression ratio for 2009, revised valve timing, and more efficient intake and exhaust setups. Two transmissions will be offered as standard equipment, giving buyers the option of a conventional six-speed manual or Sequential SportShift five-speed automatic with a manual mode and paddle shifters.

More on the 2009 Acura TSX:
First Look: 2009 Acura TSX