Consumer Reports, one of the most trusted resources for consumer information, recently published their annual Top Car Picks, naming the best all-around models in 10 class categories.  Their experts tested over 260 vehicles and ranked them using the following criteria:

• Road test:  Conducted by Consumer Reports experts
• Reliability: Predicted-reliability rating is based on the problems Consumer Reports subscribers reported on 1.3 million vehicles in the publication's latest Annual Auto Survey.
• Safety:  Data obtained from crash or rollover tests conducted by the government or the insurance industry.
  

Coming out on top in the "Affordable family sedan" category was the Hyundai Sonata.  Consumer reports praised the sedan's roomy, well-equipped cabin, supple ride, nimble handling, and great gas mileage.  Also noted was the Sonata's rear-seat space and great rear visibility, even with its sleek coupelike styling.

Another noteworthy winner in Consumer Reports' Top Picks was the Chevrolet Avalanche in the "Pickup Truck" category.  Consumer Reports had rave reviews for this truck, touting that it "provides the best combination of utility and versatility of any pickup we've tested."  It's got a comfortable and quiet ride, with innovative cargo flexibility options.

Consumer Reports' other 2012 Top Picks were:

Family Sedan: Toyota Camry Hybrid
Sporty Car: Ford Mustang
Small SUV: Toyota RAV4
Family Hauler: Toyota Sienna
Sports Sedan: Infiniti G
Green Car: Toyota Prius
Small Car: Subaru Impreza
Family SUV: Toyota Highlander