2012 Prius v: Trust Me, It's "vee," As In "Wagon"

The new Prius v is the wagon alternative to the original Prius hatchback, and it's a very good alternative if you need the space a wagon offers. It's also a Prius with great city and highway mileage and the quirky alien-hand shifter.

2012 Audi A3 TDI: Cute, Comfortable & Beyond Competent

The new Audi A3 TDI Premium is a great option for anyone who wants a competent wagon with a turbo diesel engine. The diesel gets you great mileage, some eco street cred, and a few talking points at dinner parties, PTA meetings and lacrosse practices. Add the soundbite "My Audi's B5 approved," and you may get an invitation to see the local biodiesel factory.  But hurry -- more and more people are now driving the 2010 Green Car of the Year.

2011 Nissan Quest: Big & Modern

The Nissan Quest has a new look for 2011, and like the previous design, it isn't going to appeal to every one. I'm OK with that because the Quest drives like a much smaller vehicle, is incredibly smooth, and the technology inside overshadows the odd external styling. The 2011 Quest has creature comforts just right for an active family (including more dedicated storage space), and the drive is comfortable and enjoyable.