DETROIT – General Motors’ product revival continues to gain traction – at least among automotive journalists. Four GM vehicles are among the six finalists for the 2008 North American car and truck of the year, the second straight year GM products have starred in the annual contest. The Cadillac CTS and Chevy Malibu were named finalists for the 2008 North American Car of the Year along with the Honda Accord. And the Buick Enclave and Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid were named finalists for the North American Truck of the Year along with the Mazda CX-9. Last year, GM won both contests. The Saturn Aura won the car of the year honors and the Chevrolet Silverado won the truck of the year award. The awards have been given since 1994. The North American Car and Truck of the Year will be announced Jan. 13 at a news conference at the start of media days at the Detroit auto show. The finalists, as selected by an independent jury of 47 automotive journalists, were unveiled during a news conference today at the Detroit Economic Club. Although the awards are announced each year at the Detroit auto show, the show does not give the awards. Operating expenses for the awards are defrayed by membership dues, and there are no outside subsidies. This year’s jury comprises 47 automotive journalists and broadcasters from across the United States and Canada, including Automotive News Executive Editor Edward Lapham, AutoWeek Interactive Editor Dale Jewett and AutoWeek Road Test Editor Natalie Neff. Automotive News and AutoWeek are published in Detroit by Crain Communications Inc. Others vehicles considered These were the other candidates considered by jury members for the North American Car and Truck of the Year awards: Cars Audi TT Audi A5/S5 Chrysler Town & Country Dodge Grand Caravan Infiniti G37 Infiniti EX35 Mercedes-Benz C class Nissan Altima coupe Scion xB Smart ForTwo Subaru Impreza/WRX Volvo C30 Trucks Hyundai Veracruz Jeep Liberty Jeep Patriot Kia Rondo Land Rover LR2 Nissan Rogue Saturn Vue Toyota Highlander and Highlander Hybrid Toyota Tundra Volvo XC70
Someone have dodge running through their veins?? I have yet to see one vehicle they have named vehicle of the year that is anything less then impressive. GM vehicles are amazingly competative now, and only getting better. I wouldn't be surprised if the Enclave or the CX-9 won.
