By Tom Crosby

These vehicle reviews may help you choose from the more than 250 different 2008 models. Base prices are quoted. For more information, contact AAA Carolinas Car Buying Service at (800) 231-0349 or visit AAA.com, click on automotive, new car purchasing and car reviews.

SUBARU IMPREZA 5DR - $20,995
Subaru redid its Impreza line-up for 2008 with new body styles, redesigned suspension system and a longer wheelbase that aids in handling, improves crash safety and added interior space. Our test-drive 2.5i sedan included options such as an automatic transmission with manual option and a navigation system that is not always available for compact cars. Subaru’s all-wheel drive technology hugs corners as it splits power between the wheels to improve grip. A double wishbone rear suspension system aids driving dynamics. Interior comfort features are strong and the new profile, with an arching roofline and rear spoiler is attractive.

LIKES: Handling, all-wheel drive, navigation, safety
DISLIKES: Small nav screen
BOTTOM LINE: In the small car marketplace, the Impreza is impressive

BUICK ENCLAVE CXL AWD - $36,255
Buick is now in the top echelon of J.D. Power’s quality charts and should remain there with the Enclave crossover, which replaces Buick’s Rainer and Rendezvous sport utility vehicles. The Enclave is evolutionary, combining the best features of prior models and including the latest luxury upgrades. Built on the same platform as GMC’s Acadia and Saturn Outlook and sharing the same 3.6-liter, V-6 engine, our test-drive Enclave used an automatic transmission that helps improve gas mileage but was not always immediately responsive when accelerating.  Inside, cargo space is plentiful, noise minimal and lots of luxury features, standard and optional. Safety features are strong and a good suspension system helps handling.

LIKES: Cargo space, fit and finish, quiet, handling
DISLIKE: Occasional power lag
BOTTOME LINE: Luxury at good price, quality excellent, smooth confident ride

HYUNDAI SONATA LIMITED (2.4) - $22,345
Redesigned two years ago, the Sonata continues to be refined by Hyundai. The Limited is the top trim and its good looks make it look more expensive than it is. Inside, curved door arm rests, heated leather upholstery and sliding center armrest show the attention Hyundai is giving to fit and finish. Sonata receives high marks from consumers in J.D. Power surveys and is Hyundai’s best selling sedan. Marketed as a mid-size, it is a “large car” by federal standards with plenty of occupant comfort and cargo space. A new engine helps gas mileage but reduces acceleration. Handling is fine but the rear suspension provides some road bounce. The outside looks include dual chrome-rimmed exhausts, aluminum body moldings and a sleek, curved roof.

LIKES: Price, space, fit and finish
DISLIKES: Rear suspension, power
BOTTOM LINE: Sonatas deserve a good look

Ready to buy that new car? Visit AAA.com/carbuying and leave it to AAA to find your dream car. Tom Crosby is Vice President of Communications for AAA Carolinas.