2012 Mini Cooper Coupe John Cooper Works compare

Love or hate its styling, the 2012 Mini Cooper Coupe John Cooper Works is easily one of the best-performing front-wheel-drive cars we've tested. Unfortunately, it's also priced about $10,000 too high.

A very rewarding car to drive, the 2013 Ford Focus ST will satisfy enthusiasts on weekend runs and the daily commute, but the cabin tech is a mixed bag, with the excellence of Sync offset by the navigation system interface.

Choose the spartan 2013 Subaru BRZ Premium if you're looking for a fantastic driver's car that carves corners with unmatched precision, but steer clear if cabin tech and "premium" comfort top your list of requirements.

The 2013 Honda Accord Coupe EX-L V-6 is a big step in the right direction for Honda, with great performance and good tech, but we worry that all of these virtues may not trickle down to the rest of the brand.