Four upscale sedans tested for November issue of Consumer Reports—Acura TL, Chrysler 300, Hyundai Genesis, and Toyota Avalon—delivered a strong performance. Also included in this latest test group were the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid and Nissan Leaf.

All of the models tested in this month’s issue are Recommended except for the 300, Sonata Hybrid, and Leaf. The Sonata Hybrid scored too low to be recommended. Reliability is still unknown for the 300 and Leaf. Consumer Reports only Recommends vehicles that have performed well in its tests, have at least average predicted reliability based on CR’s Annual Auto Survey of its more than seven million print and Web subscribers, and performed at least adequately if crash-tested or included in a government rollover test.

Highlights:
The Acura TL ($36,465 MSRP as tested), is powered by a smooth, punchy 280-hp, 3.5-liter V6 engine that gets 24 mpg overall but requires premium fuel. The six-speed automatic transmission shifts quickly and smoothly. Our testers consider it to be well-rounded, but the TL doesn’t stand out in its class.

The Chrysler 300C ($44,730 MSRP as tested) is powered by a 363-hp, 5.7-liter V8 engine that delivers strong performance, but it gets just 18 mpg overall in CR’s fuel economy tests. Many buyers would be happy with the 300’s base 3.6-liter V6 engine; it provides better fuel economy with still-strong acceleration. The interior is plush and well-finished with large and straightforward touch-screen controls. Driver visibility is much improved with the redesign, but it still isn’t great.

The Hyundai Genesis 3.8 ($39,850 MSRP as tested) is powered by a 333-hp, 3.8-liter V6 engine that is strong and smooth and gets 22 mpg overall. The updated V6 powertrain is punchy, and fuel economy has improved slightly. Handling is sound.. The ride is now more settled, but it still falls short of a true luxury sedan. Overall, the Genesis V6 provides most of the benefits of a $50,000 luxury car for $10,000 less.

The Toyota Avalon Limited ($36,628 MSRP as tested) is powered by a 268-hp, 3.5-liter V6 engine that is strong and gets 23 mpg overall -- impressive for such a large car. The six-speed automatic transmission shifts very smoothly and flawlessly. The Avalon could pass for a luxury sedan from Toyota’s upscale Lexus brand, with its relaxed and comfortable ride that deftly mutes road imperfections. On the highway, it’s remarkably serene. Handling, while secure, lacks agility: No one will confuse the Avalon with a sports sedan.

Read the road tests and expanded Full Track Reports (available to Cars Best Deals Plus subscribers) on the model pages, or see the original reports from the November issue.