OK, folks, it's time for a themed puzzle. And the theme is... something you'll have to figure out. There is a definite pattern to the selection of these makes, and I have strictly held to this pattern (although there's one case where a minor variation was unavoidable). No points will be given for guessing the pattern, but once it's been revealed the make names should be considerably easier to find out. (And, yes, I know there's a repost or two.)
Lots of points up for grabs, some more easily than others. Good luck!
(set 1 of 3)