The Infiniti EX crossover is an alternative to a sedan for those who prefer luxury-car sophistication but need accessible room to carry things.

Most luxury cars are better by the pound, but the Infiniti EX proves that small can be beautiful and luxurious. This small crossover compares more or less with the BMW X3 and Acura RDX, but the EX looks less like a small sport utility and more like a downsized version of the larger Infiniti FX. Think of the EX as a station wagon to the G35 sedan.

The story of the muscle-car era is like rock 'n' roll. Those who lived it still love it, and there always seem to be young bloods moving in who become enthusiasts. A lot of muscle-car history has been told and retold, and it is hard to imagine that every significant surviving car hasn't been found, restored and photographed.

The grande dame of European luxury is regaining her stature. No longer distracted by Chrysler, Mercedes-Benz is climbing back up the quality charts. New products such as the C class have set sales records.