And the “Interior of the Year” winners are….
Car Category
Ward’s editors voted the Suzuki SX4 Sport the best interior in Economy-Priced Cars (-$16,999). The editors praised the SX4 dashboard as a clean, simple alternative to button-happy center stacks. The attractive faux metallic trim surrounding the audio and climate controls as well as the leather-wrapped steering wheel sealed the deal. They concluded the SX4 proves an inexpensive car doesn’t have to be a cheap one.
The remodeled Chevy Malibu, winner of the Popular-Priced Cars ($17,000 - $29,999) category, won kudos for its dramatically different, modern and appealing interior. The editors said the harmonious design creates an upscale aura that demonstrates the successful execution of a singular design strategy by a team with a united vision. The editors’ general consensus was that the Malibu is a great value.
“The Jaguar XF interior has redefined luxury, creating a fantasy that sells the car like few other vehicles tested this year,” says Drew Winter, Ward’s AutoWorld editor-in-chief, describing the winner of the Premium-Priced Car segment (+$30,000). “The XF’s interior exudes luxury and personality as if it were creating it by photosynthesis. Push the pulsating start button and it literally comes alive. The air vent doors open in unison, and the unique circular gearshift dial emerges from a recess in the center console. It gets your blood moving and makes you feel special from the moment you sit down.”
The editors selected the Audi TT as winner of a new category this year—Sports Cars (+$30,000). The TT garnered praise from the Ward’s staff for its soft, high-quality materials and precise switchgear, as well as its contemporary design. Editors were impressed with the car’s premium feel, sporty seats and an IP with white-on-black gauges and brushed-metallic accents.
Truck Category
Ward’s editors were effusive with praise for the affordable 6-passenger Mazda5 CUV, winner of the Popular-Priced Truck category (-$34,999). The Mazda5, particularly its interior, could very well redefine trucks for a new generation of consumers. It offers all the convenience of a car, truck and minivan, combined, the editors said. One staffer called it, “one of the most functional vehicles ever.” With a lively, fuel-efficient 4-cylinder engine and room for six, the editors said the Mazda5 is the kind of vehicle many Americans will crave as gas prices soar.
Despite some very tough competition, the Chrysler Town & Country was named winner of the Premium-Priced Trucks category (+$35,000). The editors cited a feature-laden interior with elegant discreet ambient lighting, richly upholstered seats and Chrysler’s exclusive MyGIG infotainment system as reasons it outscored formidable nominees. Furthermore, the editors were impressed with Swivel ‘n Go seating that allows second-row passengers to face rearward safely and comfortably, an advancement the editors say “portends true sociopolitical advancement.”
Special Achievement Awards
In addition to the vehicle awards recognizing overall interiors, Ward's editors also singled out four models for special recognition in four categories. Winner of the Best Brand Expression award is the Volvo C30; for Electronic Innovation it’s the Infiniti EX35; Best Redesign goes to the Hyundai Sonata; and Clever Utility is awarded to the Dodge Journey.
The vehicle awards are summarized in this table:
Award Category Winner
Economy-Priced Car (-$16,999) Suzuki SX4 Sport
Popular-Priced Car ($17,000 - $29,999) Chevrolet Malibu
Premium-Priced Car (+30,000) Jaguar XF
Sports Car (+$30,000) Audi TT
Popular-Priced Truck (-$34,999) Mazda5
Premium-Priced Truck (+$35,000) Chrysler Town & Country
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