The Chrysler LHS, in particular, is proof-positive that you can still serve up the type of roominess, comfort and luxury that American buyers have traditionally favored, yet dial up the type of performance and handling that appeal to today's younger, affluent buyers.

Best of all, you don't have to do much haggling to roll out of the showroom in a fully equipped LHS sedan. Just $30,190 (just being a relative term) will get you virtually every feature available except for a CD sound system (that's a $169 option).

The generous list of standard equipment includes a power moonroof, traction control, leather seats and heated power mirrors.

If you've priced any of the imports lately, especially those from Japan, you'll recognize this as a bargain - a big one. Speaking of big, the LHS is one of the roomiest cars in its class, with plenty of space for rear passengers to stretch out - even if there happens to be a hefty 6-footer in the driver's seat.

With its 3.5-liter V6 engine, the LHS we took for a test drive proved to be surprisingly quick and nimble. Though this vehicle does have its deficiencies, it is certainly one to put on your own list of cars to test drive.