According to MSN, the most popular luxury cars below, are based on total visits to the site's vehicle research pages. I asked Jody Victor to give us his version of this impressive list of near-luxury cars.
Jody Victor : While these cars are not considered exotic or the most expensive cars available, they are prized for their drivability, luxurious interiors, and loaded options. These rankings are based on data compiled during the 2006 calendar year on msn.com.
1. BMW 3-Series - Ater a makeover for the 2006 model year that features more room and more powerful engines, the fifth-generation BMW 3-Series adds a new line of coupes to its lineup. The new 3-Series Convertible has a power-operated, retractable hardtop that that goes up in 23 seconds and down in 22.
2. Acura TL - The third-generation TL added minor upgrades for 2006 including a standard tire-pressure-monitoring system and engine control module changes to help reduce torque steer when equipped with the 6-speed manual transmission.
3. Infiniti G35 - An all-new second-generation G sedan debuts for the 2007 model year with a restyled look, an enhanced platform, redisigned suspension and an upgraded engine.
4. Lexus IS - The Lexus IS was introduced for 2006 as the replacement of the popular IS 300 entry sport sedan. Available in the IS 250 and IS 350, the latter has significantly more power with its 306-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 engine.
5. BMW 5-Series - BMW's midsize lucury sedan received engine upgrades and made all-wheel drive available for the first time in the 2006 model year.
6. BMW 7-Series - The flagship luxury sedan for BMW received a number of significant changes for 2006 including a total makeover that consists of a new hood, grille, headlights and taillights, front and rear bunpers, front spoiler, side sills, trunk lid and new wheel designs.
7. Mercedes-Benz C-Class - The C-Class is Mercedes-Benz's entry-level luxury car that now only comes in a sedan. Available in Sport and Luxury versions, the C-Class gets new standard equipment for 2007 including seven-spoke 16-inch alloy wheels, power front seats and an adjustable steering column.
8. Audi A4 - Audi gave its A4 Cabriolet a makeover for 2007 with updates to the grille, headlights and steering wheel. Using components from the S4 and A6, the suspension system is completely revised with an updated brake systyem.
9. Cadillac CTS - For 2006 the CTS added a Sport Performance Package and a Sport Appearance Package and the CTS-V received a new 400-horsepower 6.0-liter LS2 V8 engine.
10. Mercedes-Benz S-Class - Debuting in 2006, the ninth-generation Mercedes-Benz S-Class is all new for the 2007 model year. Larger, roomier and more powerful than its predecessor, the Mercedes flagship is one of the most technologically advanced luxury cars on the road today.
Thanks, Jody! We'll check them out!