By Jim Meachen and Ted Biederman

Our first look at the all-new Chevrolet Silverado full-sized pickup came last December when it was unveiled to the press a few weeks before the Detroit Auto Show. At first glance, it appeared devoid of styling changes. And then the announcement that it would be powered by a 4.3-liter V-6 or a 5.3-liter or 6.2-liter V-8, the same engine displacements that have been found under the hood for years. It left us wondering, "what was General Motors thinking?"

By Jim Meachen and Ted Biederman

The Jeep Patriot has a charm about it, an endearing quality that gives it an appealing demeanor despite some shortcomings. We like the rugged iconic sport utility stance with a hood that sits out front in the driver's view — its upright Jeep grille from the past; its large round "Jeep" eyeball lights; its good seating position behind a back-to-basics dashboard layout that proved a rather delightful break from the electronic complexity of modern switchgear and "infotainment" systems; and its maneuverability with a tidy 35.6-foot turning circle.

By Jim Meachen and Ted Biederman

Nissan introduced its new Versa sedan nearly two years ago and since then it has become the best-selling subcompact in the country. Now the hatchback version, which is now tagged around the world as the Versa Note, has the makings of becoming a best seller in North America.

By Jim Meachen and Ted Biederman

Diesel engines have become more powerful, more refined and more fuel efficient, yet the number of diesel-powered cars in the U.S. remain almost non-existent. People who want the advantages of a diesel engine in their family vehicle have turned to Volkswagen, which for years has held a virtual monopoly on the affordable diesel-car market.

By Jim Meachen and Ted Biederman

While Acura trimmed some significant weight from the latest version of its best-selling MDX crossover it also cut horsepower and subtly advanced the design. This may sound like playing it too safe with the all-new third-generation, but we discovered that Acura actually took a solid step forward. The proof is in the details — and the driving.

By Jim Meachen and Ted Biederman

The exterior has been refreshed, but there’s no mistaking the 2014 model as a Jeep Grand Cherokee. While the basic body structure and sheet metal is retained from 2013 on closer inspection you will discover handsome new front-and-rear treatments that include new headlights, taillights, grille and bumper covers.