As the fall new-model season kicks into gear, you'll see a wide range of new and redesigned vehicles hitting the road. These include revamped versions of such popular mainstays as the Chevrolet Malibu, Honda Accord, and Dodge Grand Caravan, as well as newcomers such as Mercedes-Benz's tiny and quirky Smart ForTwo city car.

Overall, car-based SUVs and so-called crossovers, such as the new Infiniti EX35 and Nissan Rogue, continue to be the fastest-growing segment of the market, as buyers increasingly look for vehicles with the versatility of a traditional SUV yet with more carlike handling, ride comfort, and fuel economy. There will also be more choices in alternative powertrains, including hybrid, flex-fuel, and clean-diesel vehicles.

Here in our 2008 new cars review, we present a preview of some notable models, with insights from our auto experts. For more insights into upcoming models, visit the New Car Preview.