By Jim Meachen and Ted Biederman

A high purchase price and limited driving range have made the all-electric car a hard sell as a mainstream vehicle. But for those who want a car that can accomplish EV goals and be turned into a cross-country warrior with no range anxiety, the modern plug-in hybrid is the perfect solution.

By Jim Meachen and Ted Biederman

Not long ago the mid-sized sedan was the largest segment outside of full-sized pickup trucks. But with the exploding popularity of the crossover SUV, the typical family sedan has become an also-ran. Because sales have dramatically dropped over the past couple of years automakers are re-thinking new models. For example, Fiat Chrysler and Ford have announced the termination of many of their car-type vehicles over the next several years.

By Jim Meachen and Ted Biederman

We've been fans of the Si performance version of the mainstream Honda Civic for years. With more horsepower than the standard garden variety Civic and with handling and corning credentials that put it in the extremely fun-to-drive category, what is not to love? This has been for decades the Civic to buy.

By Jim Meachen and Ted Biederman

It's no secret that the traditional minivan is considerably more proficient at carrying passengers and cargo than the more popular crossover SUV. But practicality is not a persuasive argument for ditching the crossover in favor of a minivan for most families in the second decade of the 21st Century.

By Jim Meachen and Ted Biederman

Jump inside a 2017 Honda CR-V compact crossover and relish in the very comfortable interior, and then take it for a couple of spins around the block and you will understand why it has become the best selling SUV in the country. The CR-V has been made over for the 2017 model year and Honda has done a creditable job leaving in place the things that made the last generation an exceptional vehicle while adding new engines, technology and infotainment features.

By Jim Meachen and Ted Biederman

The current-generation Honda Civic is stylish inside and out, offers a refined driving experience, and it's loaded with passenger and cargo space for a family of four. For 2017 Honda offers even one better — the Civic Hatchback that provides the same experience, but with the utility of a small crossover.