By Jim Meachen and Ted Biederman

The 2011 Ford Fiesta was born in Europe and carries all the best and some of the worst traits of B-segment European cars.

The cause for celebration, the good stuff far outweighs the minor annoyances in this nifty little car, which has been sold in Europe for decades and is in its sixth generation.

 By Jim Meachen and Ted Biederman

The Volkswagen Jetta for years has felt more upscale than its competitors, offering a premium vehicle experience not found in other segment cars. The all-new 2011 Jetta — at least in upper trim level — does a nice job of advancing the Jetta mystique.

 By Jim Meachen and Ted Biederman

Let’s just put aside the fact that the sporty little two-seat 2011 Honda CR-Z hatchback is a hybrid. Let’s think of it as a stylish, diminutive, agile machine with scads of cargo space (25 cubic feet) for its size.  Let’s think of it as a fun, go-anywhere car that just happens to derive exceptional gas mileage of 31/37 or 35/39 depending on transmission choice.

By Jim Meachen and Ted Biederman

It might be the epitome of sophisticated open air transportation for those of discerning tastes. It’s the E-Class of top-down driving excitement. Indeed, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class yet enters another segment. The most popular of all Mercedes nameplates sold in the United States now comes in cabriolet format in addition to the popular sedan and coupe.

 By Jim Meachen and Ted Biederman

If you desire a confident, comfortable — and plush — driving experience, but are dismayed that your choices have dwindled over the last decade we have an interesting suggestion.

Trek down to your nearest Toyota store and check out the 2011 Toyota Avalon.