Look for larger Mazda6

Mazda's Mazda6 is expected to be a larger vehicle for 2008, growing to a mid-size vehicle and aiming to fill the shoes of the Millenia, Motor Trend reports. It is expected to go on sale in late summer 2008, and will be available in five-door, sedan and sport wagon versions. No word yet on price.

Truck-based or car-based?

One of the most important factors - and arguably the first to consider - when buying an SUV is whether to go with one that's built like a truck or one that's built like a car, Forbes.com advises. This decision alone will narrow your options considerably. SUVs are built one of two ways: either on a ladder frame, or as a "unibody." The method of construction is important to understand because it dictates handling, towing, comfort, four-wheel-drive characteristics, on- and off-road prowess, among other things. As Forbes explains, an SUV is said to be built like a truck - or truck-based - if it has a ladder frame, which many pickups and other trucks employ. An SUV is said to be built like a car - or car-based - if it employs a unibody, which most modern cars employ. SUVs built on unibodies are sometimes called "crossovers" because they're like a cross between a car and truck.

Truck-based SUVs include Chevrolet Tahoe, Hummer H3, Nissan Armada and Saab 9-7X. Car-based or crossover examples include BMW X3 and X5, Honda Element, Mercedes-Benz M-Class and Volvo XC90.

Get Smart - Starting in January

At long last, you will be able to buy a Smart car, specifically, a 2008 Smart Fortwo, beginning in January, Auto Week reports. The Mercedes-Benz-born microcars have been zipping around Europe for several years, earning a positive reputation for being affordable, easy on gas and, despite the diminutive size, safe. Fuel economy is estimated at 37 mpg. Base price is $11,590. The bad news is that, according to some industry sources, demand for these cars may far exceed supply.