2009 MotorTrend Car of the Year
10-01-2008, 06:42 AM
#1
Safety Car
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2009 MotorTrend Car of the Year
Posted September 25 2008 09:55 AM by motortrend_online
Judging for 2009 Motor Trend Car of the Year -- our signature award -- is underway. We're in the midst of our exhaustive evaluation process, which features intensive performance testing and flogging at the Hyundai/Kia testing facility in Mojave, California, with each of this year's field of 17 contenders. The field is then whittled down to 10 finalists, and then we evaluate them further on a demanding road loop. From econoboxes like the Toyota Corolla to midsize sedans such as the Mazda6 and Audi A4, to the Nissan GT-R supercar, this year's field is one of the strongest in some time.
As with all of our OTY contests, Car of the Year is not a comparison test. It's open only to all-new or substantially upgraded vehicles that have gone on sale in the 12 months from November 1, 2007. We do not revisit vehicles that have been on sale for the past five years.
Each COTY contender is being evaluated against three simple criteria:
1. Superiority. We look at engineering excellence, advancement in design, utilization of resources, and safety. Vehicle concept and execution are important, as are use of materials, packaging, dynamics, styling, and fuel consumption.
2. Significance. How well the vehicle does the job its maker intended and impacts its particular market segment, influences consumer perceptions, and transforms product-development trends.
3. Value. How each vehicle compares against its direct rivals. A vehicle with a low sticker price might not be as good a value as a more expensive vehicle that delivers outstanding performance, quality, and functionality.
Below is this year's field. What do you think? What's your pick as the early favorite? The folks in the MT.com forums are already having their say, and you can check out what they're thinking BY CLICKING HERE. Stay tuned to motortrend.com and check out the January 2009 issue of Motor Trend for the complete story and more on this year's field, our testing process, and the vehicle that will take home the Calipers.
THE CLASS OF 2009:
* Acura TL
* Acura TSX
* Audi A4
* BMW 1 Series
* Dodge Challenger
* Honda Fit
* Hyundai Genesis
* Jaguar XF
* Lincoln MKS
* Mazda6
* Nissan GT-R
* Nissan Maxima
* Pontiac G8
* Pontiac Vibe
* Toyota Corolla
* Toyota Matrix
* Volkswagen CC
Photograph by Brian Vance
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10-01-2008, 11:59 AM
#9
10-01-2008, 01:34 PM
#10
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Hyundai Genesis > Lincoln MKS, Mazda6, and Nissan Maxima
Hyundai Genesis is better in overall if you consider the combination aspect of Performance, Quality, and Value. Period.
All of you always mention Mazda 6 and Pontac G8, how about Hyundai Genesis? This clearly shows there is still brand loyalty and bias, which leads to marginalization of Hyundai brand.
Dont know why Licoln MKS is there while Cadillac CTS missing.
Cadillac CTS > Lincoln MKS in every aspect.
And where is Hyundai Sonata, its the best sedan out there, it beat Toyota Camry in most recent comparison....
Hyundai Genesis is better in overall if you consider the combination aspect of Performance, Quality, and Value. Period.
All of you always mention Mazda 6 and Pontac G8, how about Hyundai Genesis? This clearly shows there is still brand loyalty and bias, which leads to marginalization of Hyundai brand.
Dont know why Licoln MKS is there while Cadillac CTS missing.
Cadillac CTS > Lincoln MKS in every aspect.
And where is Hyundai Sonata, its the best sedan out there, it beat Toyota Camry in most recent comparison....
Last edited by msl82; 10-01-2008 at 01:38 PM.
10-01-2008, 01:46 PM
#12
Senior Moderator
It's open only to all-new or substantially upgraded vehicles that have gone on sale in the 12 months from November 1, 2007. We do not revisit vehicles that have been on sale for the past five years.
10-01-2008, 04:33 PM
#18
Fahrvergnügen'd
Remember this award is all about how the manufacturer will market the car as the COY winner.
It's advertising, not necessarily that the car is the best one of the lot.
It's advertising, not necessarily that the car is the best one of the lot.
10-01-2008, 04:40 PM
#20
Ricer Killer
I agree that the Mazda 6 and GTR should be finalists...but the 1series? its basically a cheaper quality 3 series. the 1 series shares the same engine as the 3 series older brothers...and the price isnt much more appealing. but seriously...the Pontiac? idk why so many ppl think that car should win. its shares the notorious "American reliability" (no, i am not saying this with no arguments. American cars just arent as reliable and the resale value for them is quite low among the competitors. also, my family has owned many.)
The new Audi A4 should be one of the finalists because of its many improvements on the previous flaws. now, it basically outperforms and has more luxury amenities compared to those in its class, except the IS (350).
GTR completely flips the table and knocks at the doors of Lambo and Ferrari in performance and power.
AND SERIOUSLY, the comparison does not have the criteria of "LOOKS"
Thus, the TL should be a finalist because of its smooth blend of power, luxury, technology, and RESALE VALUE.
10-01-2008, 05:25 PM
#22
I'm guessing either Genesis or the yak G8. Both should be mega hits and sales sucesses.
Honorable mention: GT-R. Just falls short under the "significance" heading due to extremely limited availability. Not enough automotive lay-people will actually ever see this car to realize what it really means.
Honorable mention: GT-R. Just falls short under the "significance" heading due to extremely limited availability. Not enough automotive lay-people will actually ever see this car to realize what it really means.
10-01-2008, 05:27 PM
#23
Team Owner
Technology is GTR's middle name.
10-01-2008, 05:46 PM
#25
an asshole from florida
I agree that the Mazda 6 and GTR should be finalists...but the 1series? its basically a cheaper quality 3 series. the 1 series shares the same engine as the 3 series older brothers...and the price isnt much more appealing. but seriously...the Pontiac? idk why so many ppl think that car should win. its shares the notorious "American reliability" (no, i am not saying this with no arguments. American cars just arent as reliable and the resale value for them is quite low among the competitors. also, my family has owned many.)
.
.
the A4 will definately not win. for as amazing as it is, its way overpriced and has just recently reached the ranks of saying that its reliable
10-01-2008, 06:47 PM
#26
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come back to the forums when you realize who makes the G8 bro... and if you look at recent american cars their quality has improved significantly
the A4 will definately not win. for as amazing as it is, its way overpriced and has just recently reached the ranks of saying that its reliable
the A4 will definately not win. for as amazing as it is, its way overpriced and has just recently reached the ranks of saying that its reliable
This goes to upcoming Camaro also. Why does it look good? It is because it is developed and assembled in Australia.
Hyundai Genesis > Pontiac G8
Last edited by msl82; 10-01-2008 at 06:51 PM.
10-01-2008, 06:53 PM
#27
The sizzle in the Steak
^^^ FAIL...on so many levels.
10-01-2008, 06:55 PM
#28
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"The G8 is based on the GM Zeta platform which was created by Holden for the Holden VE Commodore in the Australian market and is derived from the Commodore, differing mainly in frontal styling and interior details. At the 2007 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, GM chairman Bob Lutz confirmed that GM intended to import Holden Commodores into North America as G8s.[2] The news was not planned to be officially announced until the Chicago Auto Show in February. The G8 is GM's first North American Zeta vehicle. The G8 shares much of its design with the Commodore. The G8 is a captive import of Australia. This commonality is allowing parts exporters from Australia to respond to a market demand by some G8 buyers, who are removing all traces of the Pontiac brand from their vehicles by installing Commodore front bumpers and other parts.[3]"
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pontiac_G8
Know some FACTS, it shows your ignorance and level of your intelligence. Why did I hurt your Over inflated American ego? lol
Last edited by msl82; 10-01-2008 at 06:58 PM.
10-01-2008, 07:05 PM
#29
The sizzle in the Steak
^^^ FAIL x2 tell us again where the camaro is being made.
Tell us again about how bad US mfg interiors are (See CTS)
Tell us again about how bad US mfg interiors are (See CTS)
10-01-2008, 07:31 PM
#30
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And yes, Camaro was developed and designed in Australia.
"GM Holden led the final design, engineering, and development of the Camaro.[20] However, the new Camaro will be produced at the Oshawa Car Assembly manufacturing plant in Canada.[21]"
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fifth-g...evrolet_Camaro
There is no place in America, employing American workers that can develop such nice looking new camaro, and same case for Pontiac G8.
Basically, Camaro was developed, engineered and created in Australia and going to be assembled in Canada. Now thats American muscle Icon!!!
You fail
10-01-2008, 10:11 PM
#31
Fahrvergnügen'd
Oky I was wrong about Camaro being assembled at Australia, its actually going to be built in Oshawa Canada. LOL so much for being AMERICAN muscle car!!
And yes, Camaro was developed and designed in Australia.
"GM Holden led the final design, engineering, and development of the Camaro.[20] However, the new Camaro will be produced at the Oshawa Car Assembly manufacturing plant in Canada.[21]"
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fifth-g...evrolet_Camaro
There is no place in America, employing American workers that can develop such nice looking new camaro, and same case for Pontiac G8.
Basically, Camaro was developed, engineered and created in Australia and going to be assembled in Canada. Now thats American muscle Icon!!!
You fail
And yes, Camaro was developed and designed in Australia.
"GM Holden led the final design, engineering, and development of the Camaro.[20] However, the new Camaro will be produced at the Oshawa Car Assembly manufacturing plant in Canada.[21]"
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fifth-g...evrolet_Camaro
There is no place in America, employing American workers that can develop such nice looking new camaro, and same case for Pontiac G8.
Basically, Camaro was developed, engineered and created in Australia and going to be assembled in Canada. Now thats American muscle Icon!!!
You fail
10-02-2008, 08:43 AM
#34
an asshole from florida
and if you would of read the post that i quoted
the guy was talking about how the G8 is a POS because its american, which is why i responded with what i did.
the guy was talking about how the G8 is a POS because its american, which is why i responded with what i did.
for the genesis.
10-02-2008, 09:52 AM
#36
my picks for winner: Genesis, G8, GT-R or the 6
I disagree with every single part of your post aside from the GT-R mention. The A4 is great, I love it, but value is definitely not its strong point. And RESALE VALUE cannot be considered, these are all brand new cars so you can't really determine resale can you? Also, they DO judge on styling which IMO is going to knock the TL out of the competition, no matter how good the car is.
The 1-series, a cheaper quality 3-series? The interior materials, design and layout are nearly identical. I can already tell you've never even sat in one.
judging by how you called it "the Pontiac" instead of "the G8" and your spelling of "ppl," I find it hard to take you seriously
and the new TL is far from being the most advanced car of the bunch. I can't believe you've got the balls to actually say that.
Well, the TL is basically the most technologically advanced car among the bunch. Also, it doesnt look THAT bad in person. the camera does not really capture its new design and intent.
I agree that the Mazda 6 and GTR should be finalists...but the 1series? its basically a cheaper quality 3 series. the 1 series shares the same engine as the 3 series older brothers...and the price isnt much more appealing. but seriously...the Pontiac? idk why so many ppl think that car should win. its shares the notorious "American reliability" (no, i am not saying this with no arguments. American cars just arent as reliable and the resale value for them is quite low among the competitors. also, my family has owned many.)
The new Audi A4 should be one of the finalists because of its many improvements on the previous flaws. now, it basically outperforms and has more luxury amenities compared to those in its class, except the IS (350).
GTR completely flips the table and knocks at the doors of Lambo and Ferrari in performance and power.
AND SERIOUSLY, the comparison does not have the criteria of "LOOKS"
Thus, the TL should be a finalist because of its smooth blend of power, luxury, technology, and RESALE VALUE.
I agree that the Mazda 6 and GTR should be finalists...but the 1series? its basically a cheaper quality 3 series. the 1 series shares the same engine as the 3 series older brothers...and the price isnt much more appealing. but seriously...the Pontiac? idk why so many ppl think that car should win. its shares the notorious "American reliability" (no, i am not saying this with no arguments. American cars just arent as reliable and the resale value for them is quite low among the competitors. also, my family has owned many.)
The new Audi A4 should be one of the finalists because of its many improvements on the previous flaws. now, it basically outperforms and has more luxury amenities compared to those in its class, except the IS (350).
GTR completely flips the table and knocks at the doors of Lambo and Ferrari in performance and power.
AND SERIOUSLY, the comparison does not have the criteria of "LOOKS"
Thus, the TL should be a finalist because of its smooth blend of power, luxury, technology, and RESALE VALUE.
Each COTY contender is being evaluated against three simple criteria:
1. Superiority. We look at engineering excellence, advancement in design, utilization of resources, and safety. Vehicle concept and execution are important, as are use of materials, packaging, dynamics, styling, and fuel consumption.
2. Significance. How well the vehicle does the job its maker intended and impacts its particular market segment, influences consumer perceptions, and transforms product-development trends.
3. Value. How each vehicle compares against its direct rivals. A vehicle with a low sticker price might not be as good a value as a more expensive vehicle that delivers outstanding performance, quality, and functionality.
1. Superiority. We look at engineering excellence, advancement in design, utilization of resources, and safety. Vehicle concept and execution are important, as are use of materials, packaging, dynamics, styling, and fuel consumption.
2. Significance. How well the vehicle does the job its maker intended and impacts its particular market segment, influences consumer perceptions, and transforms product-development trends.
3. Value. How each vehicle compares against its direct rivals. A vehicle with a low sticker price might not be as good a value as a more expensive vehicle that delivers outstanding performance, quality, and functionality.
judging by how you called it "the Pontiac" instead of "the G8" and your spelling of "ppl," I find it hard to take you seriously
and the new TL is far from being the most advanced car of the bunch. I can't believe you've got the balls to actually say that.
10-02-2008, 10:01 AM
#37
Pontiac G8 is not an american car, It was developed and assembled in Australia. thats why its good. No American car can have that good interior quality..lol
This goes to upcoming Camaro also. Why does it look good? It is because it is developed and assembled in Australia.
Hyundai Genesis > Pontiac G8
This goes to upcoming Camaro also. Why does it look good? It is because it is developed and assembled in Australia.
Hyundai Genesis > Pontiac G8
Oky I was wrong about Camaro being assembled at Australia, its actually going to be built in Oshawa Canada. LOL so much for being AMERICAN muscle car!!
And yes, Camaro was developed and designed in Australia.
"GM Holden led the final design, engineering, and development of the Camaro.[20] However, the new Camaro will be produced at the Oshawa Car Assembly manufacturing plant in Canada.[21]"
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fifth-g...evrolet_Camaro
There is no place in America, employing American workers that can develop such nice looking new camaro, and same case for Pontiac G8.
Basically, Camaro was developed, engineered and created in Australia and going to be assembled in Canada. Now thats American muscle Icon!!!
You fail
And yes, Camaro was developed and designed in Australia.
"GM Holden led the final design, engineering, and development of the Camaro.[20] However, the new Camaro will be produced at the Oshawa Car Assembly manufacturing plant in Canada.[21]"
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fifth-g...evrolet_Camaro
There is no place in America, employing American workers that can develop such nice looking new camaro, and same case for Pontiac G8.
Basically, Camaro was developed, engineered and created in Australia and going to be assembled in Canada. Now thats American muscle Icon!!!
You fail
You sir, are a borderline retard. Water-S probably thinks you are a joke. Until Hyundai actually makes an icon, STFU. You're not helping the Hyundai cause at all, sometimes now when I see when I wonder if the owner is an elitist snob because they think they've gotten the best value in the class and use that to justify their purchase, driving pleasure aside.
10-02-2008, 10:20 AM
#38
The sizzle in the Steak
Oky I was wrong about Camaro being assembled at Australia, its actually going to be built in Oshawa Canada. LOL so much for being AMERICAN muscle car!!
And yes, Camaro was developed and designed in Australia.
"GM Holden led the final design, engineering, and development of the Camaro.[20] However, the new Camaro will be produced at the Oshawa Car Assembly manufacturing plant in Canada.[21]"
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fifth-g...evrolet_Camaro
There is no place in America, employing American workers that can develop such nice looking new camaro, and same case for Pontiac G8.
Basically, Camaro was developed, engineered and created in Australia and going to be assembled in Canada. Now thats American muscle Icon!!!
You fail
And yes, Camaro was developed and designed in Australia.
"GM Holden led the final design, engineering, and development of the Camaro.[20] However, the new Camaro will be produced at the Oshawa Car Assembly manufacturing plant in Canada.[21]"
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fifth-g...evrolet_Camaro
There is no place in America, employing American workers that can develop such nice looking new camaro, and same case for Pontiac G8.
Basically, Camaro was developed, engineered and created in Australia and going to be assembled in Canada. Now thats American muscle Icon!!!
You fail
10-02-2008, 10:39 AM
#40
1. Superiority. We look at engineering excellence, advancement in design, utilization of resources, and safety. Vehicle concept and execution are important, as are use of materials, packaging, dynamics, styling, and fuel consumption.
2. Significance. How well the vehicle does the job its maker intended and impacts its particular market segment, influences consumer perceptions, and transforms product-development trends.
3. Value. How each vehicle compares against its direct rivals. A vehicle with a low sticker price might not be as good a value as a more expensive vehicle that delivers outstanding performance, quality, and functionality.
Given the above criteria I feel GT-R or Fit will be top contenders. Maxima, G8, Mazda6, Genesis although good choices probably will not succeed in the criteria defined. TL although a great car probably would hurt from the perceived poor exeterior design.
2. Significance. How well the vehicle does the job its maker intended and impacts its particular market segment, influences consumer perceptions, and transforms product-development trends.
3. Value. How each vehicle compares against its direct rivals. A vehicle with a low sticker price might not be as good a value as a more expensive vehicle that delivers outstanding performance, quality, and functionality.
Given the above criteria I feel GT-R or Fit will be top contenders. Maxima, G8, Mazda6, Genesis although good choices probably will not succeed in the criteria defined. TL although a great car probably would hurt from the perceived poor exeterior design.