Forgotten models worth mention

The following 2009 models aren't brand-spankin' new, but they're still worth a look. Check out the following mini reviews -- one of them just might warrant a more detailed look during your search for your next ride.

MAZDA 5

Price range: $17,000-$21,000

Engine: 2.3-liter four cylinder, producing 153 horsepower and 148 pounds feet of torque

Fuel economy: 21 mpg city/27 mpg highway

The 2009 Mazda 5 is one of those rare, well-designed family vehicles that single guys, like myself, wouldn't mind being seen in. Unlike most minivans, the Mazda 5 is more of a micro unit -- it has good space for five adults, but can be easily converted for cargo space only. Although it's not highly powerful, it is by no means underpowered. Like other Mazdas, the 5 excels in the handling department. Its steering and braking make driving the 5 enjoyable. If you are looking for a small, versatile people carrier with stylish design and a bit of performance, check out the Mazda 5.

MITSUBISHI LANCER GTS

Price range: $18,000-$23,000

Engine: 2.0-liter four cylinder, producing 168 horsepower and 167 pounds feet of torque

Fuel economy: 21 mpg city/28 mpg highway

The 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer GTS is a sharp-looking car. The Lancer even looks good as a base model minus the upgraded wheels, trim package, paint and performance bits. The Lancer GTS has an exhilarating combination of economy and performance, and enough performance to satisfy speed freaks. Of the 2009 models I've tested, the Lancer is one I would like to own. Style, economy, comfort and performance -- this car has got it.

TOYOTA YARIS

Price range: $12,000-$14,000

Engine: 1.5-liter four cylinder, producing 106 horsepower and 103 pounds feet of torque

Fuel economy: 29 mpg city/36 mpg highway

Yes, the 2009 Yaris looks a little like a hamster, but the concept and execution of the car is simple. It's an economy car -- nothing more, nothing less. The Yaris has good passenger space, decent cargo space and excellent fuel economy. As you would expect, its power is just barely enough and the ride is fairly comfortable. And, of course, one of the best things the Yaris has going for it is that it's a Toyota.

LINCOLN MKS

Price range: $38,000-$40,000

Engine: 3.7-liter V-6, producing 270 horsepower and 265 pounds feet of torque

Fuel economy: 17 mpg city/24 mpg highway

The MKS is Lincoln's first all-new model in years and is an important model to both Lincoln and its parent company Ford. Unlike the Lincoln MKZ midsize entry-level luxury car that replaced the rear-wheel-drive LS, the MKS quickly impresses. The interior materials are luxurious and the seats and ride are comfortable and have the feel of a traditional American luxury car. Power is lacking a little, but is acceptable for merging and acceleration. The MKS illustrates why Ford has not asked the government for bail-out money. If Lincoln and Ford continue on this track, they might be the last Americans standing.

CHEVROLET TAHOE HYBRID

Price range: $48,000-$55,000

Engine: 6.0-liter V-8, producing 332 horsepower and 367 pounds feet of torque

Fuel Economy: 20 mpg city/20 mpg highway (manufacturer's estimates)

General Motors Corp. claims that its full-sized hybrids, the only ones on the market at this time, can achieve 20 miles per gallon, an improvement over the gasoline version's 12 mpg city/18 mpg highway numbers. During my test, I drove as I normally would drive, which is fairly aggressive. This included a good mix of stop and go and speeds of up to 80 mph. Still, the Tahoe netted a combined city/highway average of 18.7 mpg.

Larry Cornwell is a writer and photographer based in Charlotte, N.C. He has written for Automotive News and Formula One magazines, among others, and runs Speedracer Syndication, an automotive news service.