The 10 Best American Cars Are Worthy of Respect

Gone is the awkward and bloated model, and in its place find one of the best-looking American cars in existence. Photos don't do the new LaCrosse ($32,065 base MSRP) justice, and it looks equal parts muscular and sleek with its curves and haunches perfectly complimentary. Though it shares the underpinnings with the Impala, it looks more upscale. The interior has been thoroughly re-worked but the front occupants get less room because of the high and wide center console, though an eight-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and 4G LTE connectivity is standard.

While the new Caddy CT6 ($53,495 base MSRP) flagship isn't meant to go at the BMW 7-Series or Merc S Class, what it does manage to do is carve out a unique niche that provides luxury an athleticism in the same package. Engine choices provide variety, from a turbo 2.0-liter four, a non-turbo V6 and a potent twin-turbo V6 with 404 horsepower. The car's suspension is taut and lets the sport-luxury sedan take corners like a champ. The cabin is luxurious though a bit overstyled, but the CT6 is more about driving fun than it is about total luxury. We're just glad it doesn't totally disconnect you from the road.

The world Corvette has finally arrived. The C6 was a stellar performer, but the current C7 Corvette Stingray ($55,450 base MSRP) is a phenom not just in terms of abilities but also what you get for the money. All by itself, it can take on cars costing twice the price, but in Z51, Grand Sport or Z06 trim, it'll wholly embarrass supercars. The 6.2-liter V8 making 455 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque mated to a 7-speed manual (or 8-speed automatic) is voluminous and authoritative. Now the interior matches its performance ethos and no longer has to hide in the shadows.

There's no better looking American sedan (the Chevy Malibu comes close) on the market than the Fusion ($22,12 base MSRP) and that's saying something since the competition is getting stiffer with each model year. Good thing the Fusion has received some tweaks inside and out to keep it fresh. The Fusion is a delight to drive and now in Sport trim, there's more power (325 from its V6 engine). The Hybrid and Energi plug-in hybrid both receive more efficient electric motors for 2017, and the Fusion gets a very responsive Sync 3 infotainment system, and a new rotary shifter shows up a-la-Jaguar.

Up there with the Chevy SS, it's a muscle car for the family set. The Charger looks far better, though, now that its fascia has been tweaked, and the interior is appropriately upmarket from the last car. It also rides and handles incredibly well for such a large vehicle and won't balk at taking long trips thanks to ample cargo space and the benefit of all-wheel drive. A 292 hp 3.6-liter V6 is standard, and two Hemi V8s are also available (a 370 hp 5.7-liter or a 485 hp 6.4-liter. The top trim Hellcat gets a supercharged V8 good for a bonkers 707 hp. Driving the kids to school will never be the same.

The first Cruze was decent. This one is excellent thanks to better looks, a much better driving experience and everyday practical room and comfort. Too bad there isn't more power available than the 153 hp 1.4-liter turbo four to match the great chassis and suspension. On the bright side, a 7.0-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is standard, as well as 4G LTE for on-board connectivity. It's a bonafide contender against the Civic and actually comes better outfitted.

Redefining the minivan isn't easy, especially when you've rested on your laurels for so long. Now Chrysler brings its A-game with the Pacifica ($29,590 base MSRP) in a way that should make the Sienna, Odyssey and Sedona cringe in fear. The Pacifica's level of comfort and utility are unparalleled in a minivan, and the sheer number of standard and optional features is dizzying (over 100). A robust set of safety features shows up such as surround-view camera, adaptive cruise control, and forward-collision alert. The brilliant Stow ’n Go seats are standard. In a pioneering move for minivans, the Pacifica plug-in hybrid is on its way. Check mate.

It's high time the last MKX was replaced, and though Lincoln waited a long time, the wait was worth it. Totally redesigned, the new MKX ($38,260 base MSRP) is better in every way, including the driving experience -- something we didn't expect. The interior is more comfortable, as well as roomier. You can also now opt for a powerful turbo V6 that'll move you and the crew, and all-wheel drive models get a great new adaptive suspension. Just make sure you wait for the updated infotainment system later this year, when Ford replaces the Lincoln will replace less-than-great MyLincoln Touch with the excellent Sync 3 system.

The Fiesta is good, but the ST ($21,610 base MSRP) is remarkable. How Ford packs so much driving goodness into such a small package is a feat of brilliance. It's a car that was built for pure fun, and boy how the ST delivers. The manual tranny (the only one available) is ready and willing to wring out the potent engine. It also gets an awesome brake-based torque-vectoring system that lets you thrash corners like a boss.

The Impala ($27,300) no longer looks like part of a less-than-desirable rental fleet. This is one big sedan that doesn't disappoint with its big interior, comfy digs, and plush ride. It also happens to finally look the part thanks to sculpted haunches and aggressive creases that increase its visual cred. If possible, go with the strong 3.6-liter V6 engine over the 2.5-liter four-cylinder. The Impala also handles and steers well, eliminating the boring commute almost entirely. Also, the Impala now includes Apple CarPlay capability and wireless cell-phone charging.