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2010 Audi S4

The new S4 is amazing, combining smart technologies to make a car with excellent handling, good power, and decent fuel economy. Audi downsized the engine but then supercharged it. The Quattro all-wheel-drive system is complemented by a torque vectoring rear differential.

Cabin tech is another high point in the S4, with Audi's latest generation of 3D maps showing rendered buildings in cities and topographical features in the countryside. A Bang & Olufsen audio system makes sweet music while you drive.

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Caption:Wayne CunninghamPhoto:Josh Miller/CNET

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2011 BMW 335is

BMW steps up the sport tuning of the 3 series with the 335is. Sticking to the twin turbo 3-liter straight-six engine, BMW found more horsepower, essentially chipping the car at the factory. In purist form, it remains a rear-wheel-drive car, with a suspension and electronics that let you throw the back end around in the corners. BMW's dual-clutch transmission is also available in the 335is.

BMW's cabin technology is quite good, and mostly on display in the 335is. It has a solid navigation and phone system, along with Harman Kardon audio.

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Updated:December 14, 2010Caption:Wayne CunninghamPhoto:James Martin/CNET

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2010 Dodge Challenger SRT8

Although maybe not the most efficient power plant, the 6.1-liter V-8 under the hood delivers the twist to get the Challenger's tires smoking. Big brakes give the car the stopping power it needs and a six-speed manual allowed for smooth driving in traffic.

We love the retro looks, and Dodge fits this car with some tech that performs well. Navigation with traffic and an iPod connector are thoroughly modern touches.

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Updated:December 14, 2010Caption:Wayne CunninghamPhoto:Josh Miller/CNET

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2011 Ford Shelby GT500

With a supercharger sitting on top of the 5.4-liter V-8, the Shelby cranks out 550 horsepower. That's all most people need to know, but the Shelby also offers Ford's excellent cabin tech.

Sync makes for easy connections to cell phones and MP3 players, complete with voice control, and the hard-drive-based navigation system shows traffic and gas prices. A Shaker audio system pumps out 500 watts of surprisingly well-mannered sound.

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Updated:December 14, 2010Caption:Wayne CunninghamPhoto:Josh Miller/CNET

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2010 Nissan GT-R

The GT-R personifies performance technology. Although sporting only a 3.8-liter V-6, tuning and turbocharging crank output up to 485 horsepower, and a dual-clutch automated manual ensures gear changes are as fast as possible. An all-wheel-drive system and lots of programming make it possible to throw the GT-R into turn after turn at thrilling speeds.

Nissan includes a full suite of tech in the cabin, with navigation, phone system, and Bose audio. A performance computer also offers every conceivable piece of information you could want about the car.

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Updated:December 14, 2010Caption:Wayne CunninghamPhoto:Josh Miller/CNET

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