You pick the winner!

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 08/11/2002 (8550 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

LAST month, about 60 members of the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada met at a racetrack near Shannonville, Ont. to pick the Canadian Car of the Year.

Which do you think will win? Which would you like to see win?

Here’s your chance to vote with the professionals. What follows is a list of the 52 vehicles eligible for the Canadian Car and Truck of the Year awards program, including a brief introduction of each car.

At Canadian Car and Truck of the Year, eligible cars can win in their category as well as overall awards for Canadian Car of the Year and Canadian Truck of the Year. Last year’s winners were the Nissan Altima and the Jeep Liberty.

To be eligible, vehicles must be new or significantly updated. They also must be entered by the manufacturer. Vehicles that aren’t entered aren’t considered.

The journalists who meet in Shannonville put the cars through a carefully designed regime of back-to-back testing on roads and racetrack, including performance evaluations of acceleration, braking and handling.

You, however, don’t need to do that much work. Simply find the ballot in the automotive section or log on to winnipegfreepress.com to fill out an on-line ballot. One ballot per household, please, and yes, we will be checking.

Balloting will be open until Dec. 13. The winning vehicle will be announced in January to coincide with the Canadian Car and Truck of the Year announcement.

We’ll award the winning manufacturer and its local dealers with beautiful made-in-Winnipeg trophies.

Economy Car less than $18,000

Dodge SX 2.0

Fresh styling and a new name may not be enough to convince consumers that the new Dodge SX 2.0 is more than a Chrysler Neon, a car that was first introduced in 1994 and updated in 1999. For 2003, the Dodge SX 2.0 base and Sport models have the Neon’s familiar 132 horsepower 2.0 litre four cylinder engine and sporty R/T models have the 150 horsepower version. New SRT-4 models have a 215 horsepower turbocharged 2.4 litre four banger. The SX 2.0 is certainly a roomy compact sedan with good handling, peppy performance, good fuel economy, a good base price, and a class leading 7 year/115,000 km powertrain warranty. But its platform and drivetrain are getting on in years, and AJAC judges may have trouble shaking off the notion that this is a recycled Neon.

Hyundai Accent

Hyundai’s popular entry-level car has revised exterior styling and new seat fabrics for 2003 and continues to be offered in the two-door GS and GSi hatchback models and the four door GL model. While the GS uses the 1.5 litre engine, the GSi and GL models have a more powerful 1.6 litre engine. A new ‘comfort package’, which includes air conditioning and power windows, locks and mirrors, was made available on the GL five-speed model midway through 2002. The Accent scores well in the areas of value for money, manoeuvrability and handling, fuel economy, and utility (hatchback), but it is not as refined, or as quiet, or as well-finished as some cars in this class. Still, it’s a lot of little car for the money.

Kia Rio RX-V

This small wagon/hatchback gets a styling makeover, more standard equipment, and a new 1.6 litre four cylinder engine with 104 horsepower, up from 1.5 litres and 96 horsepower. As before, it’s offered in RX-V and RX-V Sport models, but each has more standard equipment: RX-V models add alloy wheels, keyless entry, CD player, fog lamps, and heated mirrors. RX-V Sport models add air conditioning, CD player and fog lamps. The inexpensive RX-V is roomy for a small car, easy to drive and park, fuel-efficient, and comes with a standard 5 year/100,000 km warranty. Interior quality could be better and the car feels less substantial than some of its competitors. But like the Accent, it’s a great value.

Mitsubishi Lancer ES

Expected to be Mitsubishi’s biggest seller in Canada, this compact four door Japanese-built sedan has rather conservative styling, but its 120 horsepower four cylinder engine is a willing performer, and its attractive interior is roomy for a compact car. Lancers are offered in ES, LS and OZ Rally trim levels – the latter with a sportier suspension and tires. For a base price less than $16,000, the Lancer ES base model is a good value, and its warranty is comparable with other Japanese cars. Compared to the other AJAC competitors in this class, the Lancer is more conservative in looks and performance, but there’s nothing controversial about it that might cause it to lose points.

Pontiac Sunfire Coupe

Revised styling, a new instrument panel, 60/40 split rear seatbacks, and a new standard ‘Ecotec’ 2.2 litre four cylinder engine are the big changes to the 2003 Sunfire Coupe. The aggressive new styling is a matter of taste, but my guess is that anybody over 25 won’t like it. The new 140 horsepower balance-shaft equipped Ecotec engine is smoother than the old 115 horsepower 2.2 litre four and 150 horsepower 2.4 litre ‘quad cam’ engines, and the Sunfire’s suspension has been tweaked for handling. The Sunfire coupe’s body style isn’t as practical as some of the wagons and sedans in this AJAC category, and its basic platform is dated. I can’t see it winning this category.

Suzuki Aerio GL Fastback

Introduced in 2002, this tall hatchback from Suzuki has a roomy interior and cargo area with folding rear seatbacks and easy hatchback access, a relatively powerful 141 horsepower, 2.0 litre four cylinder motor, and nimble driving manners. Its unusual digital instruments and average interior quality may turn off some judges, but its combination of practicality, driving ease, performance, fuel economy, and price are unmatched by other vehicles in this AJAC category. The Aerio comes in GL, GLX, and SX trim levels ranging in price from less than $16,000 to just under $20,000. This could be a surprise winner.

Family Vehicle

Honda Accord sedan

All-new for 2003, the Honda Accord sedan gets more power from a slightly bigger 2.4 litre four and revised 3.0 litre V6 engines, a new five-speed automatic transmission, an improved manual transmission on base models, new standard ABS brakes, a stiffer body, and a little more interior room.  The optional 3.0 litre V6 now has 240 horses, on par with the sporty Nissan Altima (last year’s Car of the Year), giving it comparable straight-line performance. The Accord’s standard 2.4 litre four banger (up from 2.3 litres) with I-VTEC (intelligent variable valve timing and lift electronic control) is even sweeter than the previous motor. The 2003 Accord is still not an exciting car to look at, and some dimensions, such as rear legroom are actually down, but let’s face it – few cars fit the definition of a ‘family car’ better than the Honda Accord sedan.

Kia Magentis

This little known mid-size family car shares a similar platform with the Hyundai Sonata. It’s offered with either a 149 horsepower 2.4 litre four cylinder engine or a 178 horsepower 2.7 litre V6 and standard automatic transmission – V6 models are available with a four-speed Steptronic with manual shift capability. The Magentis isn’t the most powerful, the roomiest or the best-looking sedan in this category, but it does offer a very smooth ride, decent handling due to its fully independent suspension, a smooth-running V6 powerplant, a low asking price, and a good five-year warranty. It’s difficult to imagine the Magentis beating the Honda Accord for best family sedan, but it certainly scores well on value.

Chrysler PT Turbo

While the original PT Cruiser resembled an old hot rod, its standard 150 horsepower 2.4 litre four cylinder engine wasn’t exactly a tire burner. Now with a 215 horsepower turbocharged four cylinder engine, the PT Turbo will perform more like a hot rod is supposed to. As well, the sporty PT Turbo has 17-inch painted five-spoke alloy wheels, all-season P205/50HR 17-inch tires, a modified suspension, and four-wheel disc brakes with standard ABS. Though it might seem a tad sporty to be in the ‘Family Vehicle’ category, the PT Turbo is practical, too, with four doors, lots of headroom, folding rear seats and up to 64.2 cu. ft. of cargo space. None of the competitors in this category have this combination of good looks, performance and practicality.

Saturn ION

Saturn took a long time to replace their bread-and-butter S-Series sedans, but the new ION will certainly cause a stir in the affordable compact family car class. For one thing, it’s considerably bigger than its predecessor with more interior room, and a wider track for better handling. It offers a more powerful balance-shaft equipped Ecotec 137 horsepower 2.2 litre twincam 16 valve four cylinder engine as standard equipment, and there’s a new continuously variable transmission, a new five-speed automatic transmission, and a new torsion beam rear suspension. The interior features instruments mounted in the centre dash area. One Saturn trademark feature is carried over: those dent-resistant plastic body panels. It certainly has a lot to offer and could be a surprise winner in this category.

Suzuki Aerio SX Fastback AWD

The tall Aerio hatchback (which Suzuki calls a ‘Fastback’) and the Aerio sedan replaced the Esteem in 2002. For 2003, Suzuki adds an all-wheel-drive Aerio Fastback model. This relatively affordable small car is very roomy inside and has lots of cargo space, easily accessible by the lift-up hatch. Its fuel-efficient and surprisingly powerful 141 horsepower 2.0 litre four cylinder engine provides perky performance, and the new all-wheel-drive system adds traction and stability in the wet, snow and ice. It’s one of the least expensive AWD cars on the market, so it will score well on value. While it’s not as refined as some of the other cars in this category, and the dash layout may turn off some drivers, the Aerio SX AWD is well-equipped and offers a lot of versatility for the money.

Luxury Car

BMW 745Li

The long wheelbase version of BMW’s new flagship 7-series sedan has more interior room, particularly for rear passengers who are likely to be chauffer-driven in many countries. The 745Li’s 325 horsepower 4.4 litre V8 engine will take this big sedan from 0 to 100 km-h in an amazing 6.2 seconds, yet offer fuel consumption of up to 8.2 litres per 100 kilometres on the highway — the latter due in part to its standard six-speed automatic Steptronic transmission. The 7-Series I-drive control, which uses a toggle and menu system for activating the heater, radio and so on, may get some negative reviews from AJAC judges. And the 745Li’s unusual front and rear styling won’t please everyone. It’s also the most expensive car in this category. As high-tech as the new 7-Series sedan is, I don’t think it will win this class.

Infiniti M45

This new mid-sized, rear-wheel-drive luxury sedan from Infiniti is based on the Japanese market Cedric sedan, and is positioned between the top-of-the-line Q45 and the G35 sedan. Equipped with the Q45’s potent 340 horsepower 4.5 litre DOHC 32 valve V8 engine and five-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode, the M45 is a quick performer and offers decent handling courtesy of its four-wheel independent suspension (front strut/rear multi-link), and P235/45WR-18 Michelin tires. The M45 is one of the few cars to offer optional Intelligent Cruise Control, an automatic speed adjustment system that uses lasers to sense vehicles ahead and adjust speed to maintain a selected distance. While its performance may outshine many of its rivals, the M45 is not a particularly good-looking car, and it’s likely to lose points for styling. And it’s interior menu-driven control system, like the Q45’s, is confusing. 

Mercedes-Benz E-Class

Slightly wider, taller and sleeker than the previous E-Class sedan, the new E-Class has a stronger body, a new multi-link front suspension, brake-by-wire Sensotronic braking system that apportions braking forces to each individual wheel, a bigger trunk, a new split-folding rear seatback, an inflating driver’s seat, and better crash protection. Two engines are offered: a carry-over 224 horsepower 3.2 litre V6, and the 306-horsepower 5.0 litre V8 borrowed from the S-Class.  The 2003 E-Class is an impressive car in most respects with a good combination of safety, a comfortable luxurious interior, and seamless performance and handling. My guess is this is a good contender for Best Luxury Car.

Mercedes-Benz CLK Coupe

Larger and more stylish than the previous model, the redesigned Mercedes-Benz CLK coupe has more interior room and a larger trunk. Front and rear passengers have more leg and elbow room than before, and the redesigned interior is more attractive than before. The centre ‘B’ pillars have been removed, creating a more streamlined profile and improving the driver’s visibility when changing lanes. Three engines are offered: a 3.2-litre V6 (CLK 320), a 5.0-litre V8 (CLK 500) and 5.5-litre V8 (CLK 55) in the AMG-tuned model.   Though the CLK is roomy for a coupe, it can’t compare to the larger sedans in this category — and its fairly high price may prompt AJAC judges to wonder about its value for money.  A good car, but probably won’t win this category.

Sports Coupe/Sedan less than $35,000

Honda Civic SiR

The British-built, two-door Honda Civic SiR hatchback is likely to impress AJAC judges with its smooth, high-revving 160 horsepower 2.0 litre VTEC four cylinder engine, nifty dash-mounted five-speed manual transmission, nimble handling and tight body. The front sport seats are terrific, and so is the sporty interior with white-faced gauges, metallic dash trim, and red seat trim. And there is a certain ‘Honda refinement’ to this car that is lacking in some of its competitors. Still, the judges may have a hard time warming up to the SiR’s slab-sided, ho-hum styling; its awkward access to the rear seat; and its relatively small standard 15-inch tires. Doubtless though, the Honda name alone will give it a head start.

Hyundai Tiburon

Totally redesigned for 2003, the two-door Tiburon hatchback is bigger and more conservatively styled than the previous model, which had more bulges than the Michelin Man. Based on the recently redesigned Elantra platform, the base Tiburon comes with a carried-over 140 horsepower 2.0 litre 4-banger – the big news is the availability of an optional 181 horsepower 2.7 litre V6 engine and six-speed manual transmission on the GT and GS-R models. AJAC testers will love this smooth V6, the car’s balanced handling, and its big cargo area; but probably won’t like the Tiburon’s lack of headroom and cramped rear seat. Still, a fully-equipped V6-powered Tiburon goes for even less money than some of its four cylinder competitors.

Mazdaspeed Protege

The successor to the 2001 Mazda MP3, the Mazdaspeed Protégé is a limited production high-performance version of the popular Protégé sedan. Its 170 horsepower turbocharged 2.0 litre four cylinder engine has 40 more horses than the standard Protégé, and it includes a limited-slip differential, ultra low-profile 17-inch tires, larger alloy wheels, and bigger four-wheel disc brakes. Its distinctive exterior includes a large front spoiler and big fog lights, side sills, rear skirts and a rear spoiler, while a unique interior has silver-faced gauges, aluminum foot pedals and shift knob, and a seven-speaker 450-watt Kenwood MP3 audio system with a large subwoofer in the trunk. Only 2,000 of these will be available for sale in North America, so even if it wins its class, your chances of getting one — or even seeing one — are pretty slim. 

MINI Cooper S

The MINI Cooper S (owner BMW likes to spell ‘MINI’ with capitals) packs a lot into a small package – a supercharged 163 horsepower 1.6 litre engine, six-speed manual transmission, seating for four, lots of standard equipment (including six airbags), and eye-catching styling. It has substantially more torque and horsepower than the 115 horsepower Cooper model, but its real strength in this class is its superb handling and vehicle dynamics. With a ‘wheel at each corner,’ a wide stance, standard 16-inch tires, and a fully independent suspension, the Cooper S turns, brakes, and accelerates with complete confidence. The Cooper S will likely lose points for its small trunk and its relatively high base price, but its handsome styling and flashy interior will likely win the hearts of many judges – and it’s a strong emotional bet to win this class.

Mitsubishi Eclipse GT-P

New to the Canadian market, the aggressively styled, front-wheel-drive Eclipse four-passenger sport coupe comes with a standard 210 horsepower 3.0 litre V6 (up from 200 horsepower) with a new variable air induction system, and a standard five speed manual or optional four-speed automatic or four-speed Sportronic automatic/manual shifter. Its mildly restyled exterior and interior design features a smoother look, and there are new-style gauges and audio controls on the steering wheel. With a reasonable price and more than 200 horsepower, the Eclipse GT-P offers more bang for the buck than other vehicles in this class, and could be a dark horse contender.

Saab 9-3 Linear

The new Saab 9-3 seems a little out of place in this category — it being a ‘near luxury’ car that ordinarily competes against such cars as the Audi A4 and BMW 3-Series. Still, that’s an indication of what a good value the 9-3 is when compared with the other cars in this AJAC category. The ‘Linear’ model is the base 9-3 model, but it is equipped with a standard 150 horsepower turbocharged 2.0 litre four cylinder engine, five-speed manual transmission, independent suspension, anti-skid system, and many standard luxury and safety features. Much of the quirkiness of previous Saabs has been ironed out of the new 9-3. Now based on GM’s global compact platform used for the Opel Vectra, the 2003 9-3 comes only as a four-door sedan instead of a two or four-door hatchback. Its roomy interior and high level of refinement will certainly look favourable when compared to others in this category.

Sport Coupe/Sedan more than $35,000

Audi A4 Cabriolet

Based on the recently-redesigned A4 sedan, the new A4 Cabriolet model offers Audi’s wonderfully smooth 220 horsepower 3.0 litre five-valve-per-cylinder V6 engine mated to a continuously variable automatic transmission. Initially, the Cabriolet will be offered with the 3.0 litre V6 engine and front-wheel-drive, but in the Spring of 2003, it will be available with the turbocharged 1.8T four cylinder engine, and possibly Quattro all-wheel-drive. This classy, four-passenger convertible comes with a power top with a glass rear window, leather upholstery, dual zone climate control, wood trim, premium stereo, pop-up rollbar, and front and side airbags. It scores well in quality and standard features, but its small trunk and high price are negatives.

Infiniti G35 sedan

Infiniti’s answer to the BMW 3-Series and Lexus IS300, the rear-wheel-drive G35 sedan is aimed at entry-level luxury buyers who want some handling with their luxury. With its 260 horsepower 3.5 litre V6 engine and five-speed automatic transmission (with manual shift mode) mounted well back in the body, the G35 sedan offers uncommonly balanced handling and stability – while its long wheelbase contributes to a smooth ride. It’s also very quick in a straight line, and competitively priced in its class. Some critics may quibble with the unusual design of its taillights, and the look and feel of its interior plastics, but this is a very impressive car in most respects – a strong contender for Best New Sports Sedan.  

Cadillac CTS Sport

Cadillac’s all-new, rear-wheel-drive CTS luxury sedan has the right credentials to challenge European and Japanese sport sedans — including a high revving dual overhead cam 3.2 litre V6 engine, standard Getrag five-speed manual, optional five-speed automatic, and independent suspension — but much of this technological prowess is lost in the controversy over the CTS’s chiselled styling, which seems to turn more people off than on. And though it has 220 horsepower, most of its competitors have more. The CTS Sport model competing in this category is the top-of-the-line CTS model with StabiliTrak, handling suspension, and 17-inch tires — so it should do well in vehicle handling results.

Jaguar S-Type R

With 400 horsepower, the 2003 S-Type R is unquestionably the most powerful car in this category – its supercharged 4.2 litre V8 engine and new six-speed automatic ZF transmission will propel this stylish sedan from 0 to 100 km-h in about 5.5 seconds. As well, the S-Type R is equipped with standard 18-inch tires, sport suspension, Brembo brakes, and Jaguar’s Computer Active Technology Suspension (CATS). Inside, judges should be impressed with its leather-trimmed 16-way power sport seats and R Performance steering wheel and distinctive, grey birds-eye maple veneers. Still, the S-Type isn’t particularly roomy, fuel consumption is horrible, and its price is out of reach of most buyers. But then, there’s that 400 horsepower..

Mercedes-Benz C32

A C-Class sedan modified by Mercedes-Benz high-performance AMG department, the C32 AMG supercharged sports a 354 horsepower V6 engine and a five-speed automatic transmission with AMG’s Speedshift manual shifting mode.

Along with its sportier bodywork, low profile tires, and performance tuned suspension, the C32 AMG is a potent performance sedan that may even be a match for the 400 horsepower S-Type R. At the same time, it offers room for four or five passengers, and all the luxury amenities typical of a luxury sedan. The C32 AMG’s biggest drawback is its high price which is tens of thousands more than other competitors in this category. Still, it will score well in most other respects.

Sports/performance car

Acura NSX

Updates to this aluminium-intensive mid-engined sports car, which first appeared in 1991, include new exposed HID headlamps that are twice as bright, a more aggressively styled front bumper, a standard removable roof panel, a retuned suspension, improved brakes, larger 17 inch tires, and more colour choices. As sports cars go, the mid-engined NSX offers sublime handling, awesome brakes, and plenty of power from its 290 horsepower 3.2 litre V6 and six-speed manual transmission (252 hp/3.0 litre V6 with automatic transmission). Still, its basic platform is over 12 years old and some of its AJAC competitors have more horsepower. As well, the NSX’s interior is cramped, storage space is minimal, ingress/egress is awkward, and the retail price is very high.  I love this car, but I can’t see it winning this class.

BMW Z4

The successor to the Z3 has more aggressive styling, particularly at the rear where there is a higher tail with a lip spoiler. The interior has also been restyled with some styling hints borrowed from the Z8. The trunk is small, but it can be enlarged when the convertible top is up to provide enough luggage space for two golf bags. The Z3’s six cylinder engines have been carried over to the Z4: a 184 horsepower 2.5 litre inline six and a 3.0 litre inline six, but a new six speed manual transmission replaces the 5 speed manual. As well, a 5-speed automatic is offered. The Z4 is a nimble, fun-to-drive sports car with wonderfully smooth engines, but it is outgunned by the more powerful competitors in this category. Its new styling too, is arguably more complicated than it needs to be. 

Mercedes-Benz SLK 32 AMG

Tuned by AMG, Mercedes-Benz’s high performance division, the SLK 32 AMG is substantially more powerful than the regular SLK 320, and includes a handling suspension and a unique interior. Under the hood is a 354 horsepower supercharged V6 engine that propels the small roadster from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.2 seconds. Its standard 5-speed automatic Speedshift transmission now includes a manual shift mode, but a standard manual transmission is not offered. SLK 32 AMG models have unique front and rear aprons, side sills, and a rear lip spoiler that reduces lift. Inside are unique sport seats and instrument cluster. The SLK 32 AMG’s powerful engine and quick handling should prove almost unbeatable in this class, and its folding hardtop will win some points.  But it’s not particularly roomy inside and the SLK’s styling is a bit dated.

Nissan 350Z

New for 2003, the 350Z coupe (it’s really a hatchback) offers a lot of performance for the dollar, but some critics may not like its controversial styling. Powered by a naturally-aspirated 287 horsepower version of Nissan’s 3.5 litre V6 engine, the rear-wheel-drive 350Z comes with a real 6-speed manual transmission, big 18 inch tires and alloy wheels, an independent suspension, anti-skid control, leather seats, 240 watt Bose sound system, and a host of luxury features. Track Pack models add Brembo brakes and front and rear spoilers. Despite its formidable competition in this category, the 350Z is the only real all-new model, and it has a raw, sensory performance feel that’s foreign to other cars in this class. It could be an emotional winner.

Station wagon/MPV

Audi A4 3.0 Avant Wagon

Better late than never, the Audi A4 3.0 Avant joins existing luxury import wagons from BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Saab, Lexus, and Volkswagen. The A4 3.0 Avant is basically a wagon-ized version of the recently-redesigned and generally well-received A4 sedan. Attractive, well-finished, and well-equipped, it’s probably the most refined wagon in this AJAC category. It’s also a competent performer rain or shine courtesy of its 220 horsepower 3.0 litre V6 engine, standard 6 speed manual or optional 5-speed Tiptronic, and standard Quattro all-wheel-drive. Though not as roomy as a minivan, the A4 Avant is a practical small wagon with terrific driving manners and above-average quality.

GMC Savana

Extensively updated for 2003, this full-size passenger van is, by far, the roomiest vehicle in this category. Available with two wheelbase lengths: regular (135-inch) and extended (155-inch), the Savana can seat 8, 12 or 15 persons! For 2003, the Savana gets revised styling, the availability of all-wheel-drive, and the industry’s first 60/40 left-hand-side entry/load door (regular-length passenger and cargo vans only).  Four engines are available: one V6 and three V8s ranging from 200 to 300 horsepower! When it comes to people and cargo-carrying capability and towing capacity, this van will win hands down – but it will lose points for maneuverabilty and handling. Actually, it’s ludicrous to compare the Savana to the A4 Avant or Vibe – it’s just not in the same class.

Mazda MPV

A boost in horsepower from 170 to 200 and a new five-speed automatic transmission really made a difference to the MPV’s performance for 2002. This standard-size, seven-passenger minivan is surprisingly roomy, and the interior is well-finished and attractive.  Pluses include a fold-into-the-floor third row seat, available power sliding rear doors, centre row buckets that slide together, and sporty (for a minivan) ride and handling. Base models start around $26,000, but well-equipped ES models can go for more than $36,000 — a bit steep. The Mazda MPV scores well on interior roominess, cargo space, and comfort, yet it’s not too large to drive and park in the city. A good all-around vehicle that might win this category because there’s very little to complain about.

Pontiac Vibe

A sporty new compact hatchback that uses Toyota mechanicals, the Vibe has a versatile 5 passenger seating/cargo arrangement with a hard-ribbed cargo floor, a surprising amount of interior room, nimble driving manners, and good fuel consumption from its standard 1.8 litre four cylinder powerplant. It’s also offered with optional all-wheel-drive and an optional 180 horsepower 1.8 litre powerplant in the GT model. The Vibe is not as refined or as luxurious as many of its competitors in this category, particularly its manual shifter, but it’s also more affordable.  Though it’s not really a proper wagon, the Vibe is a practical hybrid that blends economy, sportiness and practicality in an attractive package.

Subaru Baja

A mid-sized sedan with a short box instead of a trunk, the new Subaru Baja is obviously a different kind of vehicle to everything else in this AJAC category. The four-door, four-passenger Baja is based on the Subaru Legacy platform, and includes a 165 horsepower 2.5 litre boxer four cylinder engine and standard all-wheel-drive. Though the cargo box is small, it can be extended into the passenger cabin by folding down a panel under the rear window. Baja’s come loaded with standard features, so they’re not cheap. It’s difficult to say how the Baja will fare against the diverse collection of vehicles in this AJAC category.

VW Jetta Wagon

Canadians love practical vehicles, and the new VW Jetta Wagon is likely to score well with consumers here. Handsome, well-finished, and roomy, the Jetta Wagon has twice as much cargo space as the Jetta sedan.  It’s available with three engines: a base 115 horsepower 2.0 litre four, 90 horsepower 1.9 litre turbo diesel four, and 180 horsepower turbocharged 1.8 litre four cylinder. Its high level of standard equipment, independent suspension, and great warranty (basic 4 yrs/80,000 km; powertrain 5 yrs/100,000 km) are attractive, but its premium price-tag, which can go as high as $35,000, may deter some buyers. The Jetta Wagon will do well in this AJAC category, and though not as roomy as a GMC Savana or as luxurious as an Audi A4 Avant, is a possible winner.

Sport utility vehicle less than $45,000

Chevrolet TrailBlazer EXT

The long wheelbase version of Chevrolet’s mid-sized TrailBlazer SUV has an extra third row seat which boosts passenger capacity from five to seven. Both the second and third row seats have fold-flat seatbacks. Unlike most mid-size seven passenger SUVs, the TrailBlazer EXT has a significant amount of cargo space behind the third seat: 22 cubic feet.  In addition to a standard 275 horsepower 4.2 litre inline six cylinder engine, the 2003 Trailblazer EXT is available with an optional 5.3 litre V8 engine with 290 horsepower and 325 foot pounds of torque, enabling it to tow up to 7,200 lbs. With a roomy interior and cargo area, generous towing capacity, and 2WD or 4WD capability, the TrailBlazer compares well with its smaller competitors in this category — but its long wheelbase hinders its urban maneuverability and off-road performance.

Honda Pilot

Honda’s first mid-sized SUV, the Pilot is based on the same unit body platform as the Acura MDX. More car-like than other mid-sized SUVs, the Pilot has a fully independent suspension, all-wheel-drive (which runs in front-wheel-drive most of the time until the front wheels lose traction), a rear limited slip differential that can be engaged by pressing a button on the dash, and a wide track which offers unusually good highway stability and cornering ability. The Pilot has three rows of seats with eight seatbelts, but the third row seat is not particularly roomy. The Pilot’s standard 240 horsepower 3.5 litre V6 and 5-speed automatic transmission provide better than average performance, but a V8 is not available. In terms of comfort, quality, on and off-road driving dynamics, and value, the Pilot compares well, and stands a good chance of winning this category.

Kia Sorento

Another all-new mid-sized SUV, the Kia Sorento is a five passenger vehicle with body-on-frame construction, front and rear independent suspensions, a 195 horsepower 3.5 litre V6 engine and 4-speed automatic transmission, and two available four-wheel-drive systems: a part-time system on base LX models and a full-time system on EX models – both have a Low Range gear. Sorentos come well-equipped, and are priced significantly lower than competitors like the Pilot and Trailblazer. All Sorentos come with four wheel disc brakes and ABS, head curtain airbags, four-speed automatic transmission, 16&” alloy wheels, air conditioning, power windows, and an AM/FM/CD stereo. The Sorento is a great value, has a good 5 year warranty, and is capable off-road. But it may lose some points for its mediocre acceleration, poor fuel consumption, and lack of a third row seat.

Jeep Rubicon

Probably the most capable off-road vehicle in this category, the Jeep Rubicon is named after the tortuous 22 mile Rubicon Trail in Northern California. The Jeep Rubicon has locking differentials that can be driver actuated when the transfer case is in low range and the vehicle speed is less than 10 miles per hour. A dash-mounted rocker switch allows the driver to lock the rear axle and toggle the front axle locker on and off for improved maneuvering. The Rubicon also features Goodyear Wrangler “Maximum Traction/Reinforced” 31-inch tall tires. A 190 horsepower 4.0 litre inline six cylinder engine and five-speed manual transmission are standard. The Jeep Rubicon will gain big points in the AJAC off-road trials, but it can’t be expected to match its more luxurious competitors for highway ride, comfort, and roominess.

Mitsubishi Outlander XLS

All-new for 2003, this compact SUV from Mitsubishi is available with front-wheel-drive (LS) and all-wheel-drive (XLS) with a standard 140 horsepower 2.4 litre four cylinder engine and 4-speed automatic Sportronic transmission with manual shift modes.The Outlander’s engine is not particularly powerful but it’s adequate and the transmission shifts smoothly. Highway ride and handling are great and it’s easy to drive. Interior headroom is generous but rear seat legroom is barely adequate.  The Outlander can’t match the performance, roominess, and interior quality of some of the other competitors in this AJAC category, so it’s difficult to see how it could win this class unless its lower price compensates dramatically.

Sport utility vehicle more than $45,000

BMW X5 4.6is

The BMW X5 4.4 is considered to be one the most performance-oriented SUVs, so you can just imagine what the new X5 4.6is is like:  it offers a 340 horsepower 4.6 litre V8 engine, 5-speed Steptronic transmission with sport mode, sport-tuned suspension with self-levelling rear air springs, 20 inch tires, and Dynamic Stability Control. 0 to 100 km/h is reputed to take just 6.7 seconds – not bad for a 2188 kg (4823 lb.) vehicle. Compared to other vehicles in this category, the X5 4.6is will do well in on-road handling, acceleration, vehicle dynamics, luxury features, and appearance; but it won’t do as well in off-pavement ability, cargo room, fuel consumption and value for money.

Ford Expedition

Some significant changes were made to Ford’s full-size Expedition this year, including a new rear independent suspension; new rack and pinion steering; larger brakes; new 40/20/40 split second row seats;  power folding third row seats; and new 17 inch wheels and tires. The Expedition offers generous passenger and cargo room, lots of horsepower and towing ability from its optional 5.4 litre V8 engine, and the ability to flip between 2WD, part-time 4WD, full-time 4WD and Low Range. The Expedition has a nice highway ride and surprisingly good handling, and though it is large, it is competent off-road. And it’s a relatively good value compared to some of the entries in this class. Negative points include its poor fuel consumption, and difficulty parking and maneuvering in city environments. Has a chance to win this category.

Hummer H2

Son of Hummer H1, this is a more civilized 4X4 vehicle, that is nevertheless an excellent off-road vehicle. Loosely based on GM’s full-size truck platform, the H2 has a wheelbase that is over 7 inches shorter than the Hummer H1, but its body is 5.3 inches longer, 3 inches taller and 5 inches narrower than the H1. The H2 can climb 60% slopes, and traverse a 40% side slope, and its short front and rear overhangs allow it to handle a 41.7 degree approach angle and 40 degree departure angle. Very-well equipped and priced to match, the Hummer H2 includes dual zone automatic climate control, Bose audio system, leather upholstery, 8-way power seats, and heated seats front and rear.  The Hummer H2 will impress AJAC judges with its off-road ability, power, luxury features, interior roominess, and comfort, but will lose points for ‘hugeness’, gas mileage, and its hefty price.

Lincoln Navigator

Similar to the full-size Ford Expedition, the just-redesigned Lincoln Navigator has all of the upgrades that went in to the Expedition including a new stronger frame, a new independent rear suspension, new rack and pinion steering, larger brakes, 40/20/40 folding second row seats, and power folding third row seats. Navigators also offer some unique features such as optional power-deployable running boards and a power liftgate. The Navigator’s new interior features burl walnut trim, premium leather, ‘satin nickel’ trim, and white light-emitting diode lighting. Like the Expedition, the Navigator is big and roomy and is surprisingly easy to drive. But fuel consumption is poor and finding a big enough parking space can be a challenge. A symbol of excess, the Navigator is nevertheless a comfortable, capable SUV that is very luxurious.

Mercedes-Benz G500

An ex-military vehicle converted to a luxury sport-utility vehicle, the Mercedes-Benz G500 Galaendewagen is priced over $100,000.  Even with its high-tech 292 horsepower 5.0 litre V8 engine, 5-speed automatic transmission, and luxuriously-equipped leather interior, it’s difficult to justify its high price.The styling looks dated, and its solid front and rear axles are designed for durability and off-road adventures more than on-road ride and handling. The G500 is likely to win points in the off-road trials: it has a unique four-wheel-drive system with three locking differentials - it can climb grades of 80 per cent (39 degrees) and is laterally stable on slopes up to 54 per cent (28 degrees). AJAC testers may deduct points for its narrow cabin, high step-in height, rough pavement ride, and angular appearance. I can’t see the G500 winning this category.