OFTEN WHEN PEOPLE find out what I do they ask me to riff on one car or another. What do you think about the…? It’s usually an ambush. Chances are the asker has already bought the car and is seeking validation. I’ve learned to stay positive until they reveal themselves.

As in: “Whaddya think about that new Mini Cooper S E Countryman All4 PHEV?” Me: “Oh yeah! My family just took one on a 500-mile road trip. Great style, charisma for days, super refined, like a BMW X2 but with personality. Free maintenance too.” Owner, proudly:...