Chevrolet Traverse

The General ought to be commended for letting Buick bask in the success of its Enclave, which for several months has had more praise thrown at it than its platform sisters, the GMC Acadia and Saturn Outlook. Heavy weight aside, the Enclave's sharp styling, quick performance and ultra-quiet interior has lent itself to the new Traverse, a cheaper version of the eight-passenger crossover on sale this year.

Engine and overall dimensions are virtually unchanged, and while the crisp styling follows Buick's lead, it looks distant enough not to damage that car's already sound reputation. Considering Chevy's success with the Malibu, it's likely the Traverse will go a similar route.