1. Cadillac CTS-VThe hot-rod Caddy isn't just one of the best new cars of 2009, it's one of the best cars I've ever driven. Its handling is laser-fine and remarkably unflappable, while the power from its supercharged V8 (556 hp/551 lb-ft) is the stuff Bible stories are written about. Remember, this is the car that beat the BMW M5 around Germany's grueling 17.5-mile Nürburgring race track. The CTS-V runs 0-60 in 3.9 seconds, yet it's posh and genteel enough to ferry your fickle mother-in-law to high tea with the Ladies' Aid Society. With a pricing starting just over $60k, the CTS-V delivers a bang-for-the-buck quotient of nuclear proportions. All this, plus it was conceived, designed and built right here in the US of A. Take that, Germany!
2. Chevrolet Corvette ZR1No question, the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 is the most thrilling car I have ever driven. The acceleration produced by the 638 hp supercharged V8 is almost beyond the scope of human comprehension, while the handling is supercar-sharp yet incredibly forgiving. With styling that looks nearly identical to the base-model Corvette, it's easy to forget how much engineering intelligence is packed into the ZR1, or what an incredible bargain it is -- $105,000 is a heck of a deal for a supercar that goes 0-60 in 3.5 seconds and on to 200 MPH, let alone one that includes a lightweight aluminum skeleton, magnetic-fluid shocks and carbon-ceramic brakes. Mark my words: History will remember the Corvette ZR1 as one of the all-time great cars.
3. Dodge Challenger
Technically, the Challenger was introduced in 2008, but only in limited-run automatic SRT8 form. 2009 sees the introduction of the full lineup -- SE, R/T, and manual-trans SRT-8. I love that the base-model SE looks every bit as mean and nasty as the big-dog SRT8, while the R/T delivers 95% of the SRT8's thrills for 75% of the price. And the six-speed manual transmission with its modern-day pistol grip shifter is the best thing to happen to the Challenger SRT8 since... well, since last year. Sure, the Challenger has flaws -- plenty of 'em, in fact -- but I don't think I'll ever grow tired of driving it...or of seeing it parked in my driveway.
4. Honda FitThe second-generation Honda Fit is on this list for the same reason the first-gen Fit made the list in 2007: It's a brilliant example of space and fuel efficiency. Tiny as the Fit is, it's still the only subcompact that can accommodate four adults and their luggage in comfort. Leave at least two of those adults at home, and the Fit can accommodate all manner of cargo, thanks to a trick back seat that flips and folds nine ways to Sunday. The Honda Fit is reasonably priced, nicely equipped, and has a zippy little engine that returns great fuel economy -- plus it's a right handsome little devil.
5. Hyundai GenesisIf you still have any lingering doubts that Hyundai can produce a decent car, you need to check out the Genesis, a full-size luxury sedan that comes frighteningly close to out-Lexusing the Lexus LS460. The Genesis is big, beautiful, quiet and smooth, and since it's a Hyundai at heart, it's a great deal -- $33,000 for starters and $42,000 with goodies like a leather-covered dash, dial-operated navigation system, a 17-speaker stereo by Lexicon (the folks that make sound systems for Rolls-Royce), and a fantastic 375 hp V8. Frankly, this car would make the Best Of list no matter who built it -- but I just love the fact that it's a Hyundai.