Toyota Prius 1,8 Exclusive (2009) Driving Impression

The second-generation Toyota Prius was a surprising success story. In a world still in the process of making a collective transition to greener lifestyles, it managed to appeal to a very large number of first adapters to hybrid motoring. But, it has to be said, it was also riding a wave of media hype. Now that hybrid motoring no longer seems like something from the future, and the realities of the Prius’s ability to battle climate change are better understood, it can no longer count on novelty and hype for sales. It has to be a good car, full stop. And it has to make sense to a wider audience. Can the third-generation (second for us) Prius rival similar-priced vehicles on merit.

Familiar Looks for Toyota Prius

You can still identify the newcomer as a Toyota Prius from a mile away. The silhouette is familiar and so is the general design approach, which is primarily because of the focus on aerodynamics. The chosen shape is simply the most slippery there is for such a passenger vehicle with an overriding emphasis on efficiency. But… the overall look is less amorphous, and the lines appear to have been drawn with more confidence. Consequently the new Toyota Prius looks slightly sportier. Slightly… The cabin is likely to be a major talking point to Prius first-timers – it truly looks like something from the future. The facia boasts a large central digital display, which has freed up space for storage areas under the transmission tunnel. There is also a simplified heads-up-display (HUD) and somewhat gimmicky “Touchtracer” steering-mounted buttons – when these buttons are touched, the choices are replicated on the facia display.

Riding on a lengthy 2 700 mm wheelbase, the Toyota Prius is a very spacious car with excellent rear legroom and even a big 445 L boot. Build quality is very good, too, even though the facia plastics feel lightweight to the touch. But, overall, the “techy” interior creates the look and feel of quite an upmarket car, with this impression helped along by the standard fitment of a colour satellite navigation system and leather upholstery. Other standard features of this well-equipped Exclusive model include climate control, auto lights/wipers, Bluetooth integration, radio/CD with remote audio controls and cruise control. Seven airbags are fitted and so is an electronic stability system (ESP).

Seated behind the oddly shaped steering wheel, and with so many high-tech features to take in, it takes a while to immediately feel comfortable. The steering features rake adjustment, and the seats are nicely supportive for longer drives.

More power, improved efficiency

The previous Toyota Prius model featured a 1,5-litre petrol engine mated to an electric motor, but this new version boasts not only a bigger, more powerful 1,8-litre engine, it also has a more powerful electric motor. Does this mean that Toyota has sacrificed efficiency in the name of some performance? Not at all. While the new drivetrain certainly delivers more punch, the new Toyota Prius is even more efficient than before, due to Toyota fine-tuning every single aspect of the design. For example, the new CVT (continuously variable transmission) is a full 20 kg lighter than before.

The petrol engine delivers 73 kW and 142 Nm of torque, and the electric motor brings 60 kW and 207 Nm to the party. All of this is still not enough to turn the relatively light (1 370 kg) Prius into a tar burner, but for the target market a 0-100 km/h time of 10,4 seconds will be sufficient. More importantly, it can return a fuel consumption figure of as little as 4,1 L/100 km in mixed driving, though you’ll have to drive gingerly to achieve such efficiency. Normal driving should see a figure of closer to 6 L/100 km – still excellent. Under 50 km/h, the Prius is programmed to prioritise electrical drive only, but it doesn’t take much pressure on the throttle for the petrol engine to be called into play. Toyota has certainly improved this drivetrain switchover, as the petrol engine no longer signals its awakening with a shudder that can be heard and felt.

In general, the new Toyota Prius Prius is a more refined, relaxed cruiser than before, largely the result of the bigger engine, but the CVT can still cause some labouring. Toyota has included a “power” button which, when pressed, sharpens the throttle response and puts the emphasis on performance. But it still doesn’t turn it into a GTI, so don’t get any ideas of guilt-free drag racing…

Composed and Safe

If you’re looking for a car that can cruise and handle entertainingly in the same measure, then best to go shop elsewhere. The Toyota Prius feels safer and more stable on the road than before, but grip levels remains relatively low, and there’s precious little feel through the steering to keep you informed of what the front wheels are doing. But to judge the Toyota Prius by these measures, is pointless and unfair. It offers good ride comfort, though, and the cabin remains quiet when cruising at higher speeds. The target market will appreciate these talents far more.

Toyota Prius – Verdict

At the price, the Toyota Prius 1,8 Exclusive is up against three turbodiesel offerings from the German premium brands. While it is certainly an improved product in every possible way, the likelihood of it appealing to buyers of these rival offerings is remote. During normal driving the German diesels are not much thirstier, and also offer significant snob appeal and more entertaining dynamics. The Toyota Prius, on the other hand, will continue to cater to the tastes of the anti-establishment and environmentally concerned. These folks can rest assured they’re buying a very a good car.

We like:

• Fuel economy
• Equipment level
• Cabin space
• Improved refinement

We don’t like:

• Price
• Droning engine

Fast Facts:

Engine: 1,8-litre, four-cylinder, petrol + electric motor (60 kW/207 Nm)
Power: 73 kW @ 4 000 rpm (petrol engine)
Torque: 142 N.m @ 2 180 rpm (petrol engine)
Transmission: CVT (continuously variable transmission)
Wheels: 15-inch alloy
Top speed: 180 km/h 0-100 km/h: 10,4 seconds
Fuel economy: 4,1 L/100 km

Source: www.um.co.za

Also consider:

• Audi A4 2,0 TDI Ambition Multitronic: For similar money to the Toyota Prius, you can have this excellent Audi, which boasts real-world fuel consumption of not much more than the Toyota’s. And you get a better driving experience to boot, too.

• BMW 320d Steptronic: A significantly more energetic and fun vehicle to drive than the Toyota Prius. You won’t get Prius consumption and you’re unlikely to score many points in the eyes of the greenies, but in reality, the 320d strikes a superb balance between performance and economy.

• Mercedes-Benz C220 CDI Auto: Imagine a premium sedan that offers the comfort and refinement of the Audi, but also a degree of agility that may even please a BMW driver… that is the Mercedes C-Class. Superb overall.

2010 Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR sets record at Leguna Seca

Guy Franken of Chrysler SA had the following to say “The 2010 Dodge Viper SRT-10 ACR remains the supercar against which others are measured. Not only does this car hold the Laguna Seca lap record now but also claimed the prestigious lap record at Nuerburgring in 2008 with an impressive time of 7:22 beating all other supercars who have attempted this subsequently. Guy continued saying “This Viper is not scheduled to be sold in SA as it is manufactured in right-hand-drive only. However, it remains the global image leader for all Dodge vehicles.”

2010 Dodge Vipe shatters record

Chris Winkler, an SRT vehicle dynamics engineer piloted a black and red 2010 Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR (American Club Racer) to a lap record of 1:33.915 as recorded by Motech in-vehicle data recorder (1:33.944 – as unofficially recorded by trackside clock) around the 3.6 km, 11-turn course, shattering the previous lap record by more than 1.1 seconds.

“It was definitely exciting but a somewhat uneventful lap overall from behind the steering wheel,” said Winkler, who is still learning the intricate details of Laguna Seca raceway, having spent only one other session on the course. “The 2010 Dodge Viper ACR has amazing power and handles like a dream, so following my first practice here last month, I came away pretty confident that we’d be able to set a new record.”

In 2008, professional road racer Randy Pobst, drove a 2008 Dodge Viper ACR to a one-lap, production car record of 1:35.117 at Laguna Seca raceway while working with Motor Trend. That record stood until August 6, 2009 when the most recent record of 1:35.075 was established by a one-off exotic prototype.

Ralph Gilles, President and CEO, Dodge Brand and Senior Vice President, Product Design Office, Chrysler Group LLC, was impressed with the Viper’s performance. “I’ve been closely tied to this car my entire career and even after owning one myself for some time, I’m still amazed with what the Dodge Viper can do on and off the race track,” Gilles said. “After our record-setting lap at the Nürburgring circuit, we’re excited to set a second performance benchmark record at another world-famous road course.”

The Dodge Viper is going into the final year of production for the current-generation model. Approximately 500 Vipers will be produced in 2010.

Volkswagen takes 49.9 percent stake in Porsche AG

Volkswagen Aktiengesellschaft has today taken a 49.9 percent stake in Porsche AG. The next important step on the way towards the integrated automotive group with Porsche has therefore been completed, as announced, before the end of the year. The price for the stake is €3.9 billion and is based on the enterprise value for Porsche AG calculated under a careful due diligence and valuation procedure.

Volkswagen expands brand portfolio

Following the Comprehensive Agreement concluded in August, the implementation agreements signed in November and the Volkswagen Extraordinary General Meeting held last week, the stake in Porsche AG represents the next milestone on the way towards the integrated automotive group with Porsche under the leadership of VW. The acquisition of the trading business of Porsche Holding Salzburg is planned for 2011. The creation of the integrated automotive group is then to conclude with the merger of Volkswagen AG and Porsche SE during the course of the same year.

The combination of the two companies follows a compelling strategic, industrial and financial logic. For the Volkswagen Group, Porsche ideally complements the brand portfolio. The Stuttgart-based car maker will allow Volkswagen to further expand its position in the premium business, which offers particularly strong earnings. In turn, as an independent brand under the roof of the Volkswagen Group, Porsche will have the potential for significant additional growth.

The transaction will have a sustained positive effect on the earnings situation of the Volkswagen Group. With a return on sales of 10.3 percent, Porsche AG is the world’s most profitable automobile manufacturer. Volkswagen will in future participate in this business success through its stake. In addition, the planned integration of Porsche in the Volkswagen Group and the associated closer cooperation will realize significant synergies on both the income and the cost side. As a result, the annual operating profit of the Volkswagen Group is expected to increase by some €700 million in the long term.

New Toyota Sienna Makes World Debut

LOS ANGELES (Dec. 2, 2009) – Toyota unveiled the all-new, third-generation Sienna minivan at a media conference today at the 2009 Los Angeles Auto show. The Toyota Sienna is well known as a transportation solution for moving people and cargo comfortably and efficiently. The new Toyota Sienna will look and drive more like a sedan, conform to new ideas about personal comfort, easily accommodate cargo, and handle big loads.

Bigger capacity for new Toyota Sienna

The new Toyota Sienna has been reinvented to handle these needs as it shifts to a more expressive and dynamic vehicle with a stronger profile, high shoulder character and responsive handling. With state-of the art features and rewarding driving dynamics, it is a vehicle that car-lovers will find satisfying to drive. Sienna will offer new models, including a sporty SE and a four-cylinder powertrain, as it continues to be the only offering in the segment with an all-wheel-drive option.

“The all-new Sienna is an example of Toyota’s commitment to lead the marketplace as it anticipates consumers’ needs and changes in lifestyle,” said Bob Carter, group vice president and general manager, Toyota Division, Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A. The third-generation Sienna combines a contemporary style with features not previously seen in a minivan, and a fun-to-drive spirit that will surprise many, along with the flexibility, spaciousness and features that have defined the segment.

Audi e-tron gets visit from Arnold Schwarzenegger in LA

LOS ANGELES, Ca., Dec 4, 2009 – Today at the LA Auto Show, California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger paid a special visit to the Audi booth to review firsthand the Audi e-tron fully electric concept study model firsthand. Earlier this week at the LA Auto Show, Schwarzenegger had expressed his support for automakers raising the bar on environmental responsibility and acted upon that enthusiasm today by visiting the Audi booth to learn more about e-tron.

Audi e-tron paves way for electric mobility

A longtime auto enthusiast, Governor Schwarzenegger received a detailed explanation of the Audi e-tron, which runs on four electronic motors and a lithium ion battery pack, from Peter Schwarzenbauer, Audi AG board member in charge of global sales and marketing. Governor Schwarzenegger joins the ranks of a very select few individuals globally who have sat inside the e-tron to date.

“It was a great pleasure meeting with Governor Schwarzenegger and I’m thrilled that he shares our excitement about the e-tron,” said Peter Schwarzenbauer, Audi AG board member in charge of global sales and marketing. “We believe the Audi e-tron will become a lasting icon of electronic vehicle design so it’s great fun to share it with a green design supporter like Governor Schwarzenegger in these early stages.”

Beyond its powerful electronic engine system, the striking visual design of the Audi e-tron affirms its spot among the major leagues of sports cars. Its performance alone renders its independence from gasoline a compelling afterthought.

Toyota Fortuner 3.0 D-4D (2009) Driving Impression

Toyota’s knack for developing vehicles that are perfectly suited to South Africans’ lifestyles must make it the envy of many a local importer.

Having access to a vehicle such as the Toyota Fortuner 3.0 D-4D, which had success story written all over it right from the development phase, must have given Toyota South Africa great confidence prior to its local launch. And still, the Fortuner has arguably exceeded even its maker’s wildest expectations. A regular in the top 10 sales charts of the South African market, locals have taken to its bakkie-derived toughness, macho style and high value pricing like ducks to the water.

Subtle upgrades

In its latest guise, the Fortuner is a more attractive offering than ever before, with the visual changes at the front giving it more of a stand-alone character than previously, when it really just looked like a Hilux-based wagon. Still, it has never been unattractive. The striking C-pillar design, puffed up wheelarches and large 17-inch alloy wheels lend it the masculine look so loved by shoppers in this segment. With the spare wheel mounted underneath the body and not on the tailgate, it also looks more upmarket than the price suggests.

Inside, the carefully considered upgrades have improved matters even further. The upholstery is now darker, making it more practical for family use. And the push-button control panel for the climate control system is a big improvement. Criticisms are really limited to subjective irritations, such as the fake wood panels on the facia.

The Fortuner’s high ride height affords driver and passengers alike a very commanding view, and the driver’s chair can further be raised through standard height adjustment (electric). The steering wheel, however, is only adjustable for rake. Still, the driving position is not uncomfortable, and although the chairs initially feel overly firm, they proved comfortable on longer trips. The standard specification also goes a long way to making these trips as pleasurable as possible. Climate control keeps the cabin cool (there are separate rear vents), the steering wheel boasts remote audio controls and cruise control is fitted, too.

Perhaps the best seats in the house are those in the second row. Boasting fore/aft sliding, it allows occupants to tailor their own legroom or, if they’re generous, to slide forward to afford those seated in the third row more stretch-out space. Talking of which… those two rear seats. Hinged onto the side of the cabin walls, they fold up relatively easily, but when this done they don’t only eat into boot space, but also tend to rattle around somewhat. And they can’t easily be removed either. Toyota should look at a design that would result in the seats folding flat into the floor.

Based on Hilux

As most will know by now, the Fortuner is based on the underpinnings of the Hilux pick-up. But the rear suspension features a coil-sprung set-up, and not leaf springs, which does endow the big Toyota with a more controlled, less jiggly on-road demeanour. There have been some worrying reports of rolled Fortuners, pointing to a car that doesn’t perform particularly well in an emergency swerve situation, but Toyota has moved to quickly wipe out such concerns by fitting an electronic stability system as standard, in addition to the ABS and EBD. So, although the Fortuner still can feel top-heavy when cornered too hard, the likelihood of it toppling over has been significantly reduced.

Being a body-on-frame SUV, the Toyota Fortuner 3.0 D-4D can’t match the ride refinement of unibody SUVs and crossovers, but in general the ride is well controlled and big bumps, especially, ironed out with ease. It’s really small, continuous ripples in the road surface that the suspension struggles to cope with. The big upshot of the Fortuner’s bakkie-derived underpinnings is, of course, its off-road ability. Featuring four-wheel drive with a low-range transfer case, as well as centre and rear differential locks, the Toyota is a superb off-road machine. The ground clearance and good approach/departure angles, as well as the torquey nature of the engine further enhance its ability off the beaten track.

The engine is by now well-known and highly regarded. The 3.0-litre D-4D unit delivers a meaty 120 kW and 343 Nm of torque from as low as 1 400 rpm. It pulls very strongly, but could do with some extra refinement, especially as it is used here in what will be in most cases the household’s primary family vehicle. The low-speed clatter is to be expected, but it remains fairly gruff at higher speeds. The fuel consumption is good, though, with a figure of around 10 litres/100 km not being impossible to achieve on a regular basis.

Verdict

The reasons for the Fortuner’s success are very easy to grasp. South Africans love the outdoors. They also love their bakkies. And the trust in the Toyota brand runs very deep. How could the Fortuner fail, then, as it seemingly offers everything most South Africans would ever want from a vehicle? It doesn’t.

For what it is, and at the price, the Fortuner is incredibly difficult to fault. Since it also features an electronic stability system and the cabin enhancements make it feel more upmarket inside, it is better than ever before. It will take something very special to dethrone the Fortuner as the darling SUV of this country.

We like:

Sliding second-row seats

Standard specification

Off-road ability

Service plan

Standard stability control

We don’t like:

Flip-up rear seats take up boot space

Still feels top-heavy

Fast facts

Engine: 3.0-litre, four-cylinder, turbodiesel

Power: 120 kW @ 3 400 rpm

Torque: 343 Nm @ 1 400 rpm

Transmission: five-speed manual

Wheels: 17-inch alloy

Top speed: 170 km/h

0-100 km/h: N/A seconds (12.5 sec EST.)

Fuel economy: N/A litres/100 km (10.4 L/100 km EST.)

Also consider:

Mitsubishi Pajero Sport 3.2 DI-D GLS Auto:

Currently only offered in automatic form, and rather expensive. The Mitsubishi is a strong rival, though, with a modern cabin and solid underpinnings. Good off-road, too.

Ford Everest 3.0 TDCi XLT 4×4:

A brand new contender, but looks and feels like the older vehicle. The underpinnings are not as modern as the Fortuner’s and consequently it’s not as impressive on the road, and off of it. The cabin, however, is very spacious, with true seven-seat capability.

Nissan Pathfinder 2.5 DCi 4×4 LE:

Although the Nissan offers extra power and a more upmarket cabin, it is hard to justify the significantly higher asking price. In terms of refinement, however, the Nissan is superior.

 

Renault Clio III 1,6 Dynamique (2009) Driving Impression

Rebuilding a brand is not an easy process… just ask the people in charge of Renault South Africa. It is also not something that happens overnight, no matter how much money is thrown at the problem. Confidence lost takes a long time to reclaim, and much of that rebuilding need to be done at an after-sales service level. Good product, however, is a good start. And judging by the latest, facelifted Renault Clio line-up, it certainly looks as if there’s a bright future for this French brand.

Upmarket design for Renault Clio

The Renault Clio III has always been one of the more attractive offerings in its segment, and it certainly had not been in any danger of being labelled as dated. Nevertheless, the redesign was required because Renault’s design language has moved on. The most striking part of the facelift can fittingly be found up front, where there’s a neatly sculpted new front bumper, a satin silver “skid plate” and a narrow, slit grille above the large lower airdam. The changes are more subtle at the rear, but overall the redesign can be classified as a success because it endows the Renault Clio with a touch more individuality, while also looking suitably upmarket.

Inside it is arguably even more impressive. Certainly, would-be buyers that come to the brand with relatively low expectations will be blown away, because the Renault Clio offers possibly the best levels of perceived quality in this segment – and yes, that includes the Volkswagen Polo! The facia moulding is of the soft-touch variety and the striking satin silver accents feel convincing while also adding a touch of class. One senses that Renault’s designers worked very hard to make sure that everything that could be seen or touched was of premium quality.

The upmarket feel is further boosted by a very impressive standard features list that includes climate control, auto lights, cruise control, auto wipers and even a Carminat TomTom satellite navigation system. Renault has built itself an enviable reputation of late for safety, and the Clio boasts a full complement of airbags (side and curtain items, too) as well as ABS/EBD.

In terms of spaciousness, the Renault Clio may not be quite as impressive as a Honda Jazz, for example, but it nevertheless boasts sufficient rear legroom for average-sized adults. The boot, too, is competitive with the likes of Polo and Fiesta. Positioned behind the steering wheel, the driver will appreciate the height-adjustable seat and supportive padding. The driving position will suit most, but note that the steering wheel can only adjust for height. Ergonomically the facia layout could perhaps have been a bit better – the digital climate control panel is a lesson in smart design and simplicity, but the audio system’s controls are a bit fiddly and mounted too low down – at least there are remote audio controls on the steering wheel. The navigation screen sits on top of the facia and although it looks like it can fold down into the dashboard, it can’t. The 150 mm screen’s displays are clear and the menu structures fairly logical, but it takes some time to get familiar with the Bluetooth remote control device.

Refined performance

This Renault Clio is powered by the brand’s 83 kW 1,6-litre four-cylinder petrol engine. The maximum torque figure is relatively low (151 Nm) and developed at over 4 000 rpm, so performance is not exactly sizzling. Still, a 0-100 km/h sprint time of just over 10 seconds is fast enough. Far more important for the target market are the engine’s refinement, economy and responsiveness. Around town, you won’t experience a lack of power, because the Clio responds keenly to throttle inputs. At higher speeds near the national highway limit, you may however have to gear down to execute an overtaking manoeuvre. Thankfully the five-speed gearbox provides smooth shifting. Fuel economy, at 6,6 litres/100 km is also excellent, but where the Clio really shines is in its drivetrain refinement. In short, the engine perfectly fits the overall character of the car, that of being a sophisticated, quiet, smooth operator.

The same applies to the car’s ride and handling characteristics. Treading a fine line between relaxed ride comfort and agility, the Renault Clio feels stable and planted… almost like a bigger car. Keep in mind that this is not a RenaultSport hot hatch, and you’ll appreciate the seemingly perfectly judged suspension set-up. Perhaps Renault could’ve added some weight to the steering, but given the likely target market, the lightness is understandable.

Renault Clio – Verdict

What an impressive product… Given this Clio’s excellent perceived build quality, overall refinement and generous features package, the relatively high price is understandable. Renault has also added a standard service plan to provide further peace of mind, and this will be necessary because for many consumers the French car maker’s reputation for poor and expensive after-sales back-up remains too strong. Let’s hope it manages to lure some new (and previously disappointed) consumers to the brand, as the Renault Clio is a very solid offering that deserves to succeed.

We like:

  • Smooth new looks
  • Cabin quality
  • Refinement
  • Ride quality/handling balance
  • Standard features
  • Safety


We don’t like:

  • Perhaps a bit slow
  • Likely resale


Fast facts

Engine: 1,6-litre, four-cylinder, petrol

Power: 83 kW @ 6 000 rpm

Torque: 151 Nm @ 4 250 rpm

Transmission: Five-speed manual

Wheels: 16-inch alloy

Top speed: 190 km/h

0-100 km/h: 10,2 seconds

Fuel economy: 6,6 litres/100 km

Source: www.um.co.za

Also consider:

  • Ford Fiesta 1,6 Titanium : Similarly sized and also quite highly specced, the Ford’s one major advantage is its more enthusiast-oriented suspension set-up. The downside is that it can’t match the Renault’s sense of refinement.
  • Volkswagen Polo 1,6 Comfortline Special Edition: Current Polo is nearing the end of the line, but is still a charming rival. Special Edition trim may add some extras, but this Polo still can’t come near to matching the Renault Clio specification.
  • Honda Jazz 1,5i-VTEC EX: May not be an obvious rival because it is neither as stylish, nor as “sporty”, but if the more practical aspects of motoring are what interest you, then it is very much near the top of its class. Owners rate them highly too.

South African vehicle market shows signs of recovery

It seems the South African vehicle market is showing gradual signs of recovery. During November 2009 a total of 22 929 new passenger cars were sold in South Africa. Total new passenger car sales in November decreased by -6.7 percent when compared to October 2009, but were 4.6 percent up on November 2008.

This is the first time since January 2007 that the monthly total new car market has been larger that the corresponding month of the previous year. The January to November 2009 new passenger car market recorded sales of -22.5 percent below the same period for 2008.

Slow growth for South African vehicle market

“New passenger car sales in November continued the more positive trend of the past number of months. However, the car rental industry purchases in November were largely responsible for this growth. Sales recorded in the consumer retail segment remain muted. The new passenger car sales cycle does, however, appear to have bottomed out and is currently beginning to reflect some slow growth,” said Mike Glendinning, Director of Sales and Marketing at VW of SA.

“From a VW of SA perspective, the new 6th generation Golf, with sales consistently over 500 units per month, vindicates its SA Car of the Year finalist status,” continued Glendinning.

“The Audi Brand sold 812 units into the premium segment last month, thereby recording its second most successful month in 2009,” said Glendinning.

“The export of the all New Polo to Right Hand Drive markets around the world is now gaining momentum, with 6 927 units exported in November. We look forward to bringing the new VW Polo to the South African market early in 2010,” said Glendinning.

Returning to the state of the South African vehicle market, Glendinning remains cautiously optimistic.

Volvo XC60 Wins 2010 International Truck of the Year Award

The Volvo XC60 was named 2010 International Truck of the Year by the International Car of the Year (ICOTY) jury on December 2. The award was given to Doug Speck, President and CEO of Volvo Cars of North America, LLC at the Volvo display at the 2009 Los Angeles Auto Show. The Volvo XC60 was chosen over 10 new crossovers, SUVs and trucks by a distinguished panel of top automotive journalists.

Volvo XC60 comes out tops

“This ties a very pretty bow around what’s been a truly amazing year for Volvo,” commented Speck. “The Volvo XC60 has not only been recognized by the media but it’s been extremely well received by our customers.”

The 2010 Volvo XC60 has helped VCNA earn six consecutive months of year-over-year sales increases since June.

The Volvo XC60 was chosen the winner from a panel of 19 automotive media from around the U.S. and Canada representing top newspapers, magazines and websites. The jurors must consider the ICOTY mission of “honoring vehicles that reflect an emotional connection between car and consumer lifestyles” when making their nominations.

“The ICOTY awards are not centered on power and performance,” said Courtney Caldwell, ICOTY’s creator and executive producer. “It’s about how cars reflect our personalities, lifestyles and self image, an attitude most consumers identify with.”

“This is one of the most prestigious car awards in the world and we feel very proud to receive it for our best-selling XC60″, said Stephen Odell, President and CEO Volvo Car Corporation.

Voting Criteria

Once approved by the ICOTY nominating committee, the awards jury then bases their decision on a number of important criteria: The vehicle must be new or substantially revised, it must be offered for sale to the general public by the judging deadline of November 16, 2009, and may not have been previously considered for the ICOTY Awards.

The International Truck of the Year award marks the 20th accolade the Volvo XC60 has received since sales began in Europe in late 2008. The Volvo XC60 is the first vehicle to offer City Safety as standard equipment. This unique Volvo technology can help the driver avoid frontal collisions at low speed. If the driver is about to drive into the rear of a vehicle and does not react in time, the Volvo XC60 will apply the brakes by itself.

Audi A3 TDI named 2010 Green Car of the year

The Audi A3 TDI has been named the Green Car of the Year for 2010. As fuel efficiency becomes more and more of an important factor for car buyers, car manufacturers around the world are competing to make their cars as low on fuel consumption as possible. Added to this concern is the impact of cars on the environment. The carbon emissions needs to be as low as possible, and being “Green” has become more and more important.

Audi A3 TDI sets example in luxury class

The prize was given to the Audi A3 TDI during the Los Angeles Auto Show. What makes the award even more impressive is that the Audi A3 TDI is in the luxury class, which is not necessarily a class that often takes too much notice of fuel consumption.

The Audi A3 TDI has a highway mpg rating of 42 which makes it the best fuel efficiency of any luxury car in America. It maintains these impressive stats while still being fun and sporty and incredibly popular among new and second-hand buyers.