| Country | Name | Fiat 500 | Mazda 2 | Ford Mondeo | Kia Cee’d | Nissan Qashqai | Mercedes Benz C-Class | Peugeot 308 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Austria |
Gerhard Nöhrer | 8 | 6 | 4 | 4 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Herbert Völker | 7 | 8 | 4 | 2 | 1 | 3 | 0 | |
 Belgium |
Stéphane Lémeret | 7 | 8 | 4 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 3 |
| Jos Gryseels | 8 | 9 | 1 | 1 | 6 | 0 | 0 | |
 Czech Republic |
Tomas Hyan | 7 | 5 | 5 | 2 | 2 | 4 | 0 |
 Denmark |
Peter Aaboe | 7 | 10 | 0 | 4 | 2 | 0 | 2 |
 Finland |
Martti | 5 | 7 | 3 | 5 | 1 | 2 | 2 |
 France |
Jacques Chevalier | 10 | 6 | 3 | 2 | 4 | 0 | 0 |
| Christophe Bonnaud | 8 | 4 | 3 | 1 | 5 | 1 | 3 | |
| Jean-Jacques Cornaert | 8 | 10 | 0 | 1 | 5 | 1 | 0 | |
| Philippe Gégout | 9 | 6 | 2 | 0 | 4 | 3 | 1 | |
| Francis Monsenergue | 9 | 6 | 2 | 0 | 5 | 0 | 3 | |
| Alain-Gabriel Verdevoye | 7 | 0 | 3 | 3 | 5 | 4 | 3 | |
 Germany |
Thomas Imhof | 10 | 6 | 1 | 3 | 2 | 3 | 0 |
| Frank Janssen | 2 | 4 | 9 | 0 | 3 | 6 | 1 | |
| Georg Kacher | 10 | 7 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 4 | 1 | |
| Jürgen Lewandowski | 2 | 9 | 4 | 3 | 0 | 6 | 1 | |
| Wolfgang Peters | 2 | 10 | 0 | 3 | 4 | 6 | 0 | |
| Jörg Reichle | 10 | 7 | 1 | 2 | 0 | 5 | 0 | |
 Greece |
Efstratios Chatzipanagiotou | 8 | 6 | 4 | 3 | 1 | 2 | 1 |
 Hungary |
Péter Surányi | 2 | 3 | 2 | 8 | 6 | 1 | 3 |
| Miklos Gajdan | 5 | 6 | 2 | 8 | 2 | 1 | 1 | |
 Ireland |
Michael McAleer | 6 | 6 | 8 | 3 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
 Italy |
Daniele | 6 | 5 | 4 | 3 | 4 | 1 | 2 |
| Diego Eramo | 8 | 4 | 0 | 7 | 3 | 0 | 3 | |
| Alessandro Ferrari | 8 | 4 | 1 | 4 | 5 | 1 | 2 | |
| Massimo Nascimbene | 8 | 5 | 2 | 2 | 6 | 0 | 2 | |
| Carlo Cavicchi | 5 | 4 | 3 | 4 | 4 | 2 | 3 | |
| Giorgio Ursicino | 7 | 4 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 1 | 3 | |
 Netherlands |
Jeroen Jongeneel | 5 | 6 | 3 | 0 | 4 | 7 | 0 |
| Ton Roks | 8 | 3 | 2 | 4 | 2 | 5 | 1 | |
| Jos Vroomans | 7 | 6 | 3 | 1 | 5 | 2 | 1 | |
 Norway |
Rune Korsvoll | 4 | 7 | 4 | 3 | 4 | 1 | 2 |
 Poland |
Wojciech Sierpowski | 7 | 5 | 5 | 4 | 2 | 1 | 1 |
| Maciek Ziemek | 4 | 3 | 10 | 3 | 3 | 1 | 1 | |
 Portugal |
José Vieira | 0 | 7 | 6 | 6 | 4 | 0 | 2 |
| Joaquim Oliveira | 4 | 2 | 0 | 7 | 3 | 6 | 3 | |
 Russia |
Vadim Ovsiankin | 8 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 3 | 4 | 5 |
| Mikhail I. Podorozhansky | 6 | 5 | 5 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 4 | |
 Slovenia |
Tomaz Porekar | 6 | 5 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 2 | 2 |
 Spain |
Manuel Domenech | 7 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 5 | 1 | 2 |
| Pedro Figueruelo | 7 | 4 | 5 | 3 | 2 | 3 | 1 | |
| Alberto Mallo | 8 | 3 | 2 | 3 | 2 | 2 | 5 | |
| Eduardo Azpilicueta | 4 | 8 | 4 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 3 | |
| María Ángeles Pujol | 4 | 4 | 7 | 5 | 2 | 1 | 2 | |
| Sergio Piccione | 6 | 7 | 3 | 3 | 4 | 1 | 1 | |
 Sweden |
Lasse Holmström | 2 | 10 | 5 | 7 | 0 | 1 | 0 |
| Hakan Matson | 10 | 7 | 2 | 3 | 0 | 3 | 0 | |
| Marianne Sterner | 10 | 4 | 0 | 6 | 3 | 2 | 0 | |
 Switzerland |
Urs Bärtschi | 7 | 8 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 0 | 0 |
| Peter Ruch | 7 | 8 | 5 | 0 | 0 | 3 | 2 | |
 Turkey |
Ufuk Sandik | 9 | 7 | 3 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 4 |
 United Kingdom |
Andrew English | 10 | 1 | 8 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 4 |
| Ray Hutton | 5 | 7 | 5 | 2 | 0 | 4 | 2 | |
| Paul Horrell | 8 | 5 | 5 | 1 | 1 | 5 | 0 | |
| Steve Cropley | 9 | 4 | 6 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 4 | |
| John Simister | 9 | 5 | 4 | 4 | 1 | 2 | 0 | |
| Total | 385 | 325 | 202 | 166 | 147 | 128 | 91 |
My judgement is based on following grounds:
Fiat 500
No, I won’t succumb“, one says at first. VW Beetle or Mini by BMW have already used the retro recipes… In addition, the Italian’s interior is really small, not functional, and the car is far more expensive than her sister Panda, more practical. But as time goes by, charm is operating and we fall blindly in love as for a pretty woman. So charming! We feel just a bit of nostalgia as we look at its curved body, without dissonance. Inside, this is too a remarkable association between good taste and polished details. Quality hasn’t been forgotten as well, which is very surprising from Fiat. Such a blend makes its competitors suddenly vulgar, sad and common. The driving isn’t bad at all; we have a lot of fun at its wheel. Then, no doubt that the „Cinquecento“ appears being one of the most graceful and elegant cars of the current production.
Nissan Qashqai
This kind of fake 4×4 looks like a very marketing product. But, as we use it, that’s a pretty nice formula. Its strong body is well protected with real bumpers (less and less used). It flatters its owner and hides a real homogeneity. Comfortable, sure, precise, spacious enough, equipped with well adapted engines, the Qashqai is definitely a good choice for every compact car fan, looking for difference. Four-wheel drive versions gives versatility of use. The finish is acceptable, but could be better. Presentation could have been warmer as well.
Mercedes C
With a massive and reassuring body, the new C is a real Mercedes, classical and elegant. Inside, this is as pleasant as outside, without eccentricity. Nice to drive. Only suspensions appear a bit stiff. It is equipped with excellent engines, served wth smooth automatic transmissions. We are far less enthusiastic about the manual gearbox. This car won’t deceive the brand’s traditional lovers. Good idea: the customer has choice between sport and comfort versions, with different front grilles and tires. Prices are still high.
Ford Mondeo
Excellent driving dynamics for this family car. Interior space is generous (not the accessibility). The aggressive body is impressive, so is the dashboard – even though some might find it flashy and not much refined. Prices are still competitive. The new Mondeo is really recommendable. So was the previous version, with more discretion.
Kia Cee’d
Here is a banal compact car without specific charm, but pretty well designed and manufactured. Engines, driving dynamics, interior layout obtain very good marks. The station wagon version is a success too. Koreans show they can be real rivals to the best European competitors. Prices keep being attractive, but are higher than before. Made in Slovakia, this model has a 7 year warranty, in a way to reassure the customers from the poor brand image.
Peugeot 308
Safe and reassuring behaviour, pleasant engines, nice interior space and brightness feeling win votes. We feel good in such a car. But, the tortured body looks too much like 307 and 207. Finish isn’t at its best level.
My judgement is based on following grounds:
Fiat 500
Fiat 500 rediscovers the magnetism for a mini car. It is also fun to drive from its cheaper version with a surprisingly brilliant 1.2 litre engine, economic and environmentally friendly as the rest of the range. At the same time it offers features not very common as the knee airbag and also details to personalize.
Peugeot 308
Not very new, but very satisfying, especially for the driver against the passengers of the rear seats. Precise and confidence inspiring, the handling is excellent without lack of comfort. The 1.6 litre engines are so convincing that you don’t need more displacement to assure decent performance.
Mazda2
A little bit more things and the Mazda2 could be one of the stars of his category. Nothing to criticize on chassis, engines, gearbox and performance. However, the interior is without ambitions and doesn’t resists the comparison with other rivals in refinement, functionality and roominess.
Kia cee´d
For me is the surprise of the year, so much that there is a new Kia awareness after the cee´d. The Korean car from Zilina can be compared with the top specialists of this category, and not always lose. Petrol and diesel engines, handling and roominess are at a very good level.
Nissan Qashqai
I prefer lower cars than tall ones, but Qashqai is undoubtedly a very acceptable product and a good reflect of what many people ask to the carmakers. For me, the best of this vehicle is under the bonnet: the engines and also the transmission system on the 4×4 versions.
Mercedes C-class
I think I am one of the few people considering the C-class body style a little bit over-elaborated, but this is not my reason to give it just 2 points. Because C-class can be considered a reference in many of its features, but the price is high.
Ford Mondeo
One of the most convincing finalists of this year cant´t be judged without having in account that his MPV Version has won the 2007 title. And this is a better car!
My judgement is based on following grounds:
In this generous year, in my opinion, at least four cars of the short list could become Car of the Year 2008. The Nissan Qashqai for it’s interesting and innovating formula, that offers the possibility of driving a normal compact sedan or a small SUV starting from a very accessibile price level with high comfort and security. The Mazda2 for the beautiful design as well for the pleasant and ready handling (mostly with the 1.3 engine) and because it is lighter and more respectful to the environment than the former model. The Kia cee’d because offers a level of quality and comfort never seen before in a Korean car. The 1.6 turbodiesel engine is one of the best in the class and I also appreciate the seven years warranty that Kia offers for the first time on this model. But this year we have an outstanding: the Fiat 500, that for me is on the top for the astonishing design, for the good finishing and quality and for the good handling. The 500 is more than a normal car, it is a cult, the real essence of the the small Italian car. In a word: the car that everyone would like to have in the garage.
My judgement is based on following grounds:
Fiat Cinquecento
The ride is too hard, the rear seats too small and the noisy engines aren’t in the back like Giacosa’s original, but then you remember the sub-£8,000 price tag, the gorgeous interior and the smiling faces of people when they step out. OK this is Car of the Year, not retro-rebodied Panda of the year, but as Fiat’s Luca De Meo says, “the Cinquecento 500 is a designer car for the man in the street.” Yes, I’d need a Papal edict on compulsory days off for chiropractor appointments and Matt Monro’s Day’s Like These’ would be permanently on the stereo, but this car is cooler than gelato and it’s my CotY winner by the length of the Apennines Way.
Ford Mondeo
A big car, with lots of lovely space, especially in the back and simply brilliant ride and handling. Engine options are a bit sparse, but it’s inside where the big Ford betrays its maker, setting the bling-standard for design, trim and materials.
Peugeot 308
The 308 is very different bouilloire du poissons from it predecessor; from its futuristic and high-quality cabin, to its superb ride quality and secure handling. I can even get my big feet on the pedals, which was impossible in its predecessor.
Mercedes-Benz C-class
The most competent new Benz to be presented to the CotY jury for many years. It handles beautifully and the ride is classy. The cabin sparkles with quality, but it all comes at a high price.
Mazda 2
Mazda takes 220lb out of an average small hatchback and what does it do with it? Turns it all into performance that’s what. Has this company ever heard of Co2-rated road tax, climate change, or one-litre engines? A hot hatch with a nervy, raucous edge.
Kia C’eed
The driveline is fun and the accommodation is more than passable, but there’s a slightly unfinished brittleness to this car, which is why I voted for the Hyundai i30…
Nissan Qashqai
Another family-sized urban SUV, remarkable for its unpronounceable name and fine handling. The Nissan is fun and worthy of the short list, but not by any stretch, car of the year.
My judgement is based on following grounds:
2007 has been a great year with regards to quality and quantity of new cars.
Among them, the Fiat 500 has impressed for its capability to couple a quite winning design with a first quality mechanics – made precious by the Ncap five stars. Then, the range promises versions up to the situation, to complete a high-level offer. Just behind it, three very well made proposals: the Kia Cee’d, witness of the quality achieved by Koreans, praised with a seven-years warranty. The Mazda 2, and the important work done towards a reduction of the weights – as well as a catching look. The Nissan Qashqai, first real crossover with a price within the reach of a large part of the market.
First quality cars are also the Ford Mondeo and Peugeot 308 – but the latter is a spectacular refining of the 307, which won the Car of the Year title in 2002, while the Mondeo has under the skin all the qualities that assured one year ago the title to the S-Max.
And the Mercedes Class C. Perfect, as expected. But definitely not much innovative of the model it replaces.
My judgement is based on following grounds:
As usual, there are many good cars this year, But there is the Fiat 500 !
A very large smile in the cloudy car universe. For this particular reason, the new Fiat is at the top of my classification. But not only.
The 500 is really a funny and good car. I can’t say I would buy it at first, but this small Fiat makes me thrill. It’s not so common nowadays ! It’s not a toy, it’s a real car and it comes back into fashion. The range is really exciting.
Exciting too is the Nissan Qashqai ! But as it’s not only a 4X4, the Qashqai adopts the good attitude and proportions for a new compact car in a totally new market category. The next generation of Peugeot 3008 will be on the same concept…
The Mazda2 gets 4 points due to the good effort to reduce its weight. The price to pay is the poor quality of the dashboard, not as good as it used to be. But the car is pleasant to drive, dynamic and I think it’s a good interpretation of a hypothetic new… Peugeot 206 !
Like the S-Max, the Mondeo is an excellent car with a lot of space inside and rich safety equipment options. The dashboard is a little bit confused with many screens in front of the driver, and another one on the console. You are less serene than inside a Laguna, for example.
Succeeding the 307, and really bigger, the new 308 brings Peugeot back to the European bigger market with a classic but improved quality car. With the Peugeot, you are still happy to drive and really impressed by the styling in this class. It’s a very good interpretation of the 307’s evolution, but not a revolution. It’s a reverence to the huge designer Gerard Welter…
The Mercedes has preserved the traditional values of the brand with more exciting driving. Close to the BMW driving sensations… The design work on this new generation has been more successful than it was the previous one.
At last, the Kia Cee’d is a classic vision of the C-segment, without anything better than the rivals, except the guaranties. Kia can say “thank you” to the French who work on the very good chassis !
My judgement is based on following grounds:
Ford Fiesta is coming with a touch of premium in the B segment, with low consumption and CO2 emissions. The Fiesta ECOnetic is a great achievement in our European complicate CO2 debate. The new Fiesta is great in driving, excellent in handling. But most of all, the Kinetic design is doing a great job, succeeding to create an appeal to sell. For what is doing in this segment deserve to be the winner.
Opel Insignia is a fantastic contender, with affordable and exciting technologies. Very close to my winner.
Renault Mégane is much better looking car than previous generation. Is better in steering and quality. But with prices announced initially is going to be extremely hard to compete.
Skoda Superb is much larger than previous generation with some clever technical solutions. I see no reason to buy VW Passat having the new Superb.
VW Golf is better in every aspect than its predecessor, but it is… still a Golf. The manufacturer banks on 75 percent loyalty coming from the former customers. Alfa Mito is good contender, a needed addition to Alfa range. But far from been a winner. Finally,
Citroën C5 deserves a place among the finalists. But that’s all.
My judgement is based on following grounds:
Personally I found this year choice very embarrassing cause at least five of the seven finalists could rationally deserve the title; that has been my conclusion after the final “ecumenic” test in Balocco and the following ranking tries to workout the concept.
Fiat 500
I think the best goal of Fiat is making something more than a modified Panda project; from that point of view they did a real fantastic job in design (in and out) and in chassis development, with the result of a cute look and a proper roadholding. Put in it a lot of history and a bit of emotion to gain a worthy winner.
Mazda2
Sharp handling little car with remarkable comfort all around; Mazda confirms his skill in dynamics, it’s a pity they didn’t still reached a similar stunning standard in the interior design.
Nissan Qashqai
Smashing and clever concept, anticipating market evolution more than direct competitors; shows good design, surprising driveability, cultivated auto-boxes; definitely a well done example of a crossover, practical and appealing at the right price.
Kia Cee’d
The totally new “European” Kia is without doubt the Surprise Of The Year; impressive in dynamics and overall quality. Strong points are the small diesel engine and the valuable price/content ratio in the whole range of models. A “plus” point for the brave 7 year warranty in our Country.
Ford Mondeo
A great car to drive, with no faults in every aspect, much more stylish than ever, roomy and with a classy equipment; the new Mondeo demonstrates a very cultivated heritage of the previous winner S-Max.
Peugeot 308
Peugeot accustomed us to judge fine, well engineered, quality conscious and civilized cars, sometime stunning sometime correctly matching the expectations. 308 is a good step forward the winning 307, probably the right answer to the customer but not enough to make it a winner this year. Mercedes C-class. Don’t misunderstand me if I state “C-Klasse is too much C-Klasse”, meaning I expected something more, or less conservative, than a small S-Klasse comparing the general evolution of the car market in that segment. I looked with favour to small Merc sedan because the only RWD in the row, but it didn’t elate me.
My judgement is based on following grounds:
Fiat 500
The modern reincarnation of the Fifties and Sixties legend, confirming Fiat’s talent for making small cars. And the manufacturer is on top form, because the new 500 clearly shows the car’s progress in terms of quality, with good quality materials and finishings and careful construction. Low emission engines, active and passive security, comfortable, easy and pleasant to drive, an appealing design and a vast range of customization options complete a truly winning picture.
Kia Cee’d
The most surprising quality leap. With the Cee’d, the Korean manufacturer has definitively shaken off its label as a cheap car producer, comfortably standing up to comparison in the C-segment with the best European manufacturers in terms of quality, performance, driving dynamics and comfort. Although the design is not terribly exciting, the competitive price and seven-year warranty make it a product of great substance and solid ambitions.
Mazda2
The mere fact that Mazda has chosen to buck the general trend of building ever-bigger and heavier cars make the 2 deserving of a high ranking in the Car of the Year classification. The reduction of 100 kilos with respect to the previous model make for a truly enviable driveability and ease-of-handling, unfortunately let down by a suspension which is a little rigid and noisy on uneven road surfaces, resulting in a driving comfort which is less than optimal. The quality of the materials in the interior reflect the highly competitive purchase price.
Peugeot 308
Progress following in the path of tradition. Despite an increase in weight of around fifty kilos compared to the 307, the 308 boasts great road holding and the quick response to the controls that Peugeot has so pleasantly accustomed us to. Excellent braking, a little less so in acceleration, the 308 offers an overall quality suited to the price which is a little on the expensive side. Some of the dashboard controls are small and impractical, while the on-board electrical systems reveal some anomalies.
Nissan Qashqai
Part SUV, part crossover, the Qashqai is an interesting proposal with solid functional and on-road qualities, especially in terms of comfort. The 2-litre version gives its best performance when fitted with an automatic gearbox, both in the petrol and turbodiesel versions.
No points for the Ford Mondeo, due to heavy electrical failures on my test car. And no points for the Mercedes C Class because I didn’t have the opportunity to test the car before choosing the seven finalists.
My judgement is based on following grounds:
Curiously, three excellent cars that got into the short list –Fiat 500, Ford Mondeo and Peugot 308- have platforms derived from the ones of former CotY award winners. What might prove that good brand-new car structures are not so frequent these days. Another remark: new cars are very nice to look at, but to enhance their beauty they carry few or none external elements –rubbing strips or real bumpers- to protect them from unavoidable small hazards in everyday use.
Mazda2
Successful effort at weight reduction, good aerodynamics and efficient petrol engines give this appealing small car a remarkable fuel economy. Reasonable performance, comfort and good handling help to make it a winner.
Fiat 500
A lot of fun, and substance too. 500 is the new champion of cuteness and serves a well balanced dose of nostalgia, but is also an useful and practical urban car.
Ford Mondeo
Lots of car for the money, perhaps too much. Ford still goes bigger for a popular model when the trend has already changed; now less is more, or it should.
Peugeot 308
A very deep evolution on the 307, the new compact Peugeot improves in every aspect over its predecessor, placing itself into the heart of the segment.
Kia cee’d
The aim was to make a segment-C car fully equivalent in quality to its European competitors. Done, but the price is also equivalent.
Mercedes-Benz C-class
A new proof of Mercedes mastership for this kind and size of car. A roomier cabin would make it better.
Nissan Qashqai
Demand beyond expected means that Nissan has found big success in following one of the trendy recipes to make a compact car.
My judgement is based on following grounds:
FIAT 500
It is excellent! I would like to have more available points so as to evaluate it with 10. My choice has nothing to do either with sentiment or with the model’s heritage. It is the perfect small car. Aesthetically, it looks exactly like what your daughter might like your wife or your friend too, at the same time that you could unconditionally suggest it to your brother or even to your boss, no matter their high demands or their driving abilities. The “500” after all is a high-quality car! Its performance satisfies both the enthusiast youngsters and the “tired” middle-aged former rally champion like myself. What’s better after all?
MAZDA2
In most sectors it is even better than the Toyota Yaris. In any case, the fact that the Japanese propose a B segment hatchback in right dimensions is quite pleasant, especially concerning that most of their European rivals launch XL models. This Mazda is “honest” in every matter. In dimensions, CO2 emissions, road handling, performance, consumption etc., volumes that have to make with performance, but also elsewhere, there that you judge the ride and the manufacture quality. Aesthetically it satisfies all tendencies being modern but also discreet, while it is important for the category that as of my country it is offered in good price concerning its equipment.
FORD MONDEO
Even better than its predecessor, the new Mondeo’s position is at the top of the category and after all it has the ability to look “straight in the eyes” rivals like BMW, Mercedes and Audi. At the same time, at least in price matter, it is cheaper than most of them, and with particularly better equipment. Its main advantage, beyond cockpit’s space and good performance -in the high capacity engine versions, is its riding and handling quality due to the exceptional steering system and the very good suspension in the entire model range; even in 1.6 liters version. The fact that personally I do not like its rear end design, for sure cannot moderate my confidence for Mondeo’s skills at the time of evaluating it.
KIA CEE’D
Being in the short list looks amazing? Not at all. By the time that Koreans create a car equivalent to the Toyota Auris (still not to Corolla), and in particular they manage to offer it in a very good price at the same time that there is no doubt concerning its reliability, you must award the effort which is not as simply as it may looks. We have to deal with a new era for the firm and also with a model that stands as an equal opposite to its rivals. Independently criticized, Kia Cee’d not only satisfies by its riding behavior but also has the advantage of the “value for money” model.
MERCEDES
At last a Mercedes which in its entry level (C-180, C-200) acts like BMW, regarding the road handling, and feels like an Audi, concerning its engines. There is no doubt that it is a prestigious model, produced with upper class materials, and, for sure, offers to its passengers the category’s comfort standards. Despite the progress made on both handling and steering, I wouldn’t buy it even on my 66th, when I will not participate in our jury, while to my friends who equitably will decide on get one I will suggest to be careful with its equipment. Entry models and prices, at least in Greek market, are far away from their final price.
NISSAN QASHQAI
As the Toyota RAV established the SUV category and the Mazda MX5 renovate little roadsters, in this way this “high mounted” Nissan establishes a contemporary category; but notice that the “right choice” is the 2 wheel drive one, with the low capacity engines. A well made -concerning its quality- model, with an excellent driving position, but after all it cannot climb high among its category’s evaluation, as it is not the best SUV in some sector. Moreover, the interesting as concept 4 wheel drive 2.0 liters version, is offered in particularly high price that will also cause to the model lose its after-sale value.
PEUGEOT 308
If you realize that you don’t have to deal either with the 307 or with the 207, you will be amazed by the upgraded quality -not only in materials. But above this, in this category there are certain better models, apart from VW Golf. After all it could be characterized as an authentic Peugeot thanks to its riding feeling, but for sure not with the over promoted turbo engine (150 PS), which occurred after the Frenchmen collaboration with ΒΜW. In my opinion the natural aspirated version (120 PS) is ideal for the model, which among other features may also be proud for its platform and its firm’s upgraded quality.
My judgement is based on following grounds:
Fiat 500
“Love at first sight!” For sure, the Cinquecento is one of the most glamorous car for the last ten years. But, over these irrational considerations, the small Italian offers all the customers may expect of such car : good value for money with an entry price under 10 000 €, choice between three engines, enough space inside for a daily city use and good level of equipment. Plus five stars EuroNCap. The level of noise, especially with the diesel engine, is a little bit too high.
Mazda2
With, approximately, the same size and less weight than the previous model, the small Mazda goes in the right way and shows what a city car must be : very pleasant and fun to drive (perfect with petrol engines) and low fuel consumption. Inside presentation and the dashboard could be better.
Nissan Qashqai
One of the best surprises of the year. It looks like a 4 x 4 but it is as comfortable, spacious and pleasant to drive as a saloon : the Nissan is a true alternative offering a very good value for money. For a normal use, the front wheel drive is the good choice.
Peugeot 308
The 307 was a pretty good car, with excellent dynamic qualities and a fine look. The 308 is very close of the previous with more aggressive lines and the same ability to offer a sporty driving style as almost all the Peugeots use to do. One regret, the stiffness of the suspension, fine for a “top” handling, but rather negative for the comfort of the driver and his passengers.
Ford Mondeo
The previous one was one of the best European family car, the new one, more an evolution than a brand new car, keeps the same line with an optimisation of all the well known qualities : roominess for five passengers and their luggage, engines (especially the diesel), equipment and competitive prices. A bonus, the body style is more attractive. But the sizes, length and width penalize the car for parking.
My judgement is based on following grounds:
Ford Mondeo
Ford of Europe has found a very simple and intelligent answer to the crisis of its American mother company: They just build very good cars. We have seen that already with the S-Max last year. Mondeo is the next one that deserves the premium stamp. Also the so-called Kinetic Design is really a different styling language, whether you like it or not. Well done.
Mercedes C-Class
This car is close to perfection in terms of handling, comfort, ergonomics and safety. What I miss with this brand is a stronger design that does not pretend to be juvenile or sporty. The C-Class does not need that. Basic prices seem to be reasonable but beware of the options list, as usual.
Mazda 2
The Mazda is a nice small car with a good design and a reasonable price. The 100 kilogramme weight reduction compared with the predecessor is impressive and required a lot of engineering effort although it surely helped a lot that the new car is much smaller. A good result of that is an agile handling, at least with the petrol engine cars. What I miss are even smaller engines – they could further reduce fuel consumption.
Nissan Qashqai
Excellent in design. Nissan was very clever to position it between the compact car segment and SUVs. That makes the Nissan a success it deserves. But the car has also some weak points. Roominess is limited, the handling feeling is a bit clumsy. And it has also left the compact car segment price range.
Fiat 500
Yes, this car is beautiful. Fantastic. Good to see it on the road and shortly, we will see it a lot. Driving it is also nice as comfort is okay, but roominess is, of course, very limited. To mount a child seat in the back you will need to move the passenger seat as much forward as you can. Safety is also fine. But: Is this car a milestone? I don’t think so.
Peugeot 308
The 307 wasn’t one of my favourites and that has not changed heavily with the new car, although it has improved a lot. But that is mandatory after more than five years. For a huge car like the 308, its roominess is not the best. 5 speed manual gear boxes combined with most of the engines and even 4 speed auto boxes are very oldfashioned.
Kia Cee’d
Cee’d may be a big step forward for Kia but not for mankind. The compact segment is so packed with good cars that a new entry has to be more outstanding. Cee’d is not. Its design is boring, driving is noisy from wind and chassis, steering is poor. And Kia did not prove sofar that its long term quality justifies a seven year warranty. If not, it is of no use for the customer.
My judgement is based on following grounds:
Citroën C5
After the C4 and C6, this is the third convincing new Citroen. It rides better than just about any other car in its class, it is well equipped and well made, and it is an economical long-distance cruiser. No, the ergonomics are not intuitive, but if you can cope with iDrive, you can cope with a fixed steering wheel hub. And, yes, both the saloon and the estate look good, and they offer good value for money.
Alfa-Romeo Mito
I drove two good ones and a duffer. The good ones handled with inspiration, performed rather well, felt like proper Alfas despite their Grande Punto descent. The welcome DNA drive mode selector feels a bit like a poor man´s equivalent of the manettino switch in a Ferrari. The rear seats are a token gesture, but in the front there is plenty of room to move plus the nicest cockpit in the class.
Opel Insignia
With a less remote steering and a better ride, the Insignia woud have topped my chart. As it is, however, it can´t quite match the Mondeo in terms of handling and vehicle dynamics. Having said that, the Opel/ Vauxhall offers a great package, a notably pretty estate version as well as a lot of product for your nickel. Other Insignia assets include the EcoFlex and four-wheel drive variants.
Volkswagen Golf
The VW is the other car on this shortlist which rides remarkably well. It is also quiet and refined, and it is put together like nothing else in the class. In addition, the Golf scores in the drivetrain department with frugal TSI and TDI engines, as well as with the smart and efficient dual-clutch transmission. But the really interesting versions (GTi, Blue Motion, 4Motion, R20T) arrive too late.
Renault Mégane
Apart from its fresh look, there is nothing really special about the new Mégane. It´s not a bad drive, but the steering is still a tad artificial, the dynamics are middle-of-the-road and there is not much happening on the eco-front either. The space utilisation is only average, too. But we know that there is more to come from camp Mégane, and that expansion of the range does look promising.
My judgement is based on following grounds:
FIAT 500
Let’s be honest: When did a car last cause such a sensation? When did we last get so much applause on the road with a small car? I say: the Fiat 500 is the roadbuster of the year. And it seems to be the right car at the right time: it shows the heart of the Italian marque and hits the emotions of the customers, who are delighted with the cult car. They have smartly played the nostalgia card and, moreover, have given us a marketing masterpiece. Of course there are critics who say: the car lacks innovation. Okay, nevertheless, heart beats head by a narrow margin.
MAZDA 2.
Another big shot for the Japanese, whose clever downsizing killed several flies with one stone. Moreover, the new Mazda2 represents everything that has made the marque so strong in the past few years. Significant character with cheeky appearance and dynamic ease that triggers enthusiasm.
KIA CEE’D.
A high flyer. The Cee’d is the first Korean car in the Golf class, which is at eye level with the number one. The Korean car matches itself against the best. Good design, a lot of space, well equipped and a nearly unbeatable price with a guarantee no other competitor can offer.
FORD MONDEO
Ford is doing the right thing with the new Mondeo to prove it. Well designed, dynamic drive and a quality that sets new standards in the class. Definitely a candidate for the premium class.
PEUGEOT 308
Looks a bit too much like its predecessor, but quality like never before.
MERCEDES C-CLASS
Never been so precious.
NISSAN QASHQAI
Better than its name. Great value for the money.
My judgement is based on following grounds:
I think that Fiat 500 is the most interesting car among those that are competing for 2008 Prize. As Mini did in the past, Fiat 500 design makes to relive one of the most famous cars of the ’60s, while offering modern technical contents and innovative solutions, which place baby Fiat on top of its market segment. Well finished, good building quality, highly safe (even with its 355 cm, Fiat 500 has reached five stars EuroNCAP). The brake system is very good and offers the customer the chance to have discs on back axles. The choose of the engines is very wide and all of them are in line with the new Euro 5 rules.
Mazda2 and Ford Mondeo are my second choice. These cars belong to two very different categories. The former looks compact although it belongs to the B segment and offers room and comfort in its interior. Mazda2 is very light: this characteristic allows it to reduce petrol consumption and pollution at the same time.
Ford Mondeo is a confirmation of S-MAX qualities: kinetic design is one of the best style interpretations of recent past.
My third choice is a trio. Kia cee’d is the first car made for European customers by a Corean brand: very good value for money and excellent turbodiesel engine. Nissan Qashqai introduces a new market segment: it is a true suv, but you can choose it with a small engine and the anterior traction only. Peugeot 308’s design is not so attractive, but the car has very good quality interiors and first class driving dynamics (Dpf standard deserves an award). My last choice is C Class: a beautiful car, but just what you expect from a Mercedes.
My judgement is based on following grounds:
Fiat 500
So charming and so impossible not to fall in love with at first glance, things that may hide its genuine values: five star rating in Euro NCAP, two of three engines below 120 grams of Co2 per kilometer. At the end of the day the 500 can be concluded in just two words: simply irresistible.
Mazda2
Clever solutions, a good drive, great styling and an impressing weight reduction. This car is not only a good choice for the buyers – but also for competitors to learn from.
Kia cee’d
Not a giant leap for the automotive industry, but a big step for the Korean car manufacturer. First Korean car with a five star rating in Euro NCAP and a warranty rarely seen before, at least not in Europe.
Mercedes-Benz C-class
Make no mistake: this is not just another Mercedes. In fact it managed to reduce its weight compared to the car it replaces and some qualities – like the steering – are close to perfection.
Ford Mondeo
Based on the winner from last year, but targeted at other buyers. Spacious, nice to drive, but still room for improvement – I am thinking about the interior.
My judgement is based on following grounds:
We love full size cars (European scale) but tend to vote for the small ones, even VERY small cars. Perhaps we jurors should be more honest but we can always do that starting next year, that’s fair enough.
Between the outstanding small cars of this vintage I picked Mazda2 as a winner for technical refinement in the lightweight job and exceptional dynamics. Altogether it gives you the feeling of a very light-footed full value car.
Fiat 500 of course is everybody’s darling for its looks, the cute way of expressing Retro with a twist and the smartness of creating a complete family in the near future. Technically it resembles the well known Panda, with serious updates of course.
Ford Mondeo und Mercedes C-Class have different starting lines and a different approach to the final goal of bringing a very dynamic spirit and good looks into a formerly not-so-exciting segment, both have done extremely well.
I welcome Kia cee’d as a serious contender on the „Golf“-course, not only by traditional value for money attitude but by genuine smartness in several details.
Nissan Qashqai is an intelligent solution for problems that might occur if you feel you’re at the crossroads of urban and outdoor life, definitely in style.
My judgement is based on following grounds:
FIAT: This – note the hue – is much more than a regular car. It raises a spontaneous outpouring of sympathy in the street where everything is gray, however, synonymous with pollution, emissions of CO², restrictions of movement and questions about the role of the automobile in society. Venue of another time, the 500 shakes discourse and sticks to marvel at our present time. It arouses the irrepressible desire to consume the car. This is not the best technically but it is irrefutable sign that the car will never be a consumer product like any other.
MAZDA: A good size and good weight, the 2 is at the forefront of a new generation of automobiles, heavy least bouffies and now re – with the realities of urban compact car. The few sacrifices on the presentation explained as, on a model also agile and extremely quiet. His dynamic, modern design sticks to all his qualities.
NISSAN: It is believed to have invented everything and there has niches where it is important to infiltrate. Nissan has identified one of the berline-break high, the one that attracts all those tired body classics. It is therefore allowed to ride home and doing good things with value, for those who live in the mountains, the ability to retain the choice o minority but how useful 4×4.
FORD MONDEO: the only family road to propose such a range of bodies. 4-door, 5-door, wagon, this car at the top of classicism knows displaying elegant lines and sanctify the return of chrome. Its virtues road, its range of engines and its presentation does déméritant not, far from it, it was worth a coup de chapeau.
KIA CEE’D: the surprise of the year because it is the first Korean to appear in this final table. It is better than his half sister HyundaÏ with his famous guarantee of seven years. It is justified by manufacturing quality welcomed by better results in the crash test Euro Ncap. The development of the chassis in Europe finally sign a report effectiveness-comfort surprising, competing with the best and playing an unusual habitability.
My judgement is based on following grounds:
The Mazda2 is the first car that is really lighter than the one it replaces. A difference of almost 100 kg is an important step in the domain of car conception. It is also smaller (length, height) allowing a lower drag. As a result, its fuel consumption/CO2 emissions has been significantly reduced. Even though the Mazda2 is not perfect on all items -its steering and damping could be optimised-, the lower weight has improved its driving pleasure.
The Fiat 500 is a cute car that cheers up everybody it passes by, including car nuts. That said, it is mostly a “marketing car” that doesn’t bring any technical innovation. Its main achievement lies in a design that will be used for a complete family of cars and probably largely participate in the revival of Fiat.
The Nissan Qashqai is also a “marketing car”, but it seems that it brings a good answer to the consumer’s expectation. And style is not its only virtue, the driving pleasure is another one. The Qashqai brings something new in the C segment. It is probably the first of a new generation of compact family cars.
Mercedes C-Class doesn’t bring anything new on its market but its evolution in the driving pleasure domain is remarkable for a Mercedes.
The Kia Cee’d, not because of its guarantee that is just a commercial strategy that doesn’t have to be considered in the election, but because it is closing the gap with the best European cars on the dynamic field.
I didn’t give points to the Ford Mondeo that is bigger and heavier than the previous Mondeo
The Peugeot 308 because it is heavier than the previous car and I think it doesn’t change enough compared to the 307 which has already been Car of the Year.
My judgement is based on following grounds:
Both C-Class saloon and estate models excel. Because of great looking compact design and roomy interior, but handling also is (even) much better than before, already in standard trim, agility control included. Dynamic package upgrades things to an even higher level. Very silent, up to high speeds and all in total probably the best combination of dynamic performance and comfortable ride in this marketsegment. Engines are superb, lots of choices possible. Bit dissappointing though that no double clutch tranmission is available. Estate features nice luxury items like automatic tailgate and has very large luggage compartment.
Mazda2.Very impressive how engineers succeeded in developping and building a smaller car with basically simple suspension and engines, but very good handling. Weighs less than predecessor, in which the car leads the way for other manufactueres, and is priced more or less the same as before. Interior also is convincing, with rather simple lay-out but great functionality. Design is much more joyfull than before and the price/equipment ratio is very high.
Bull´s eye for Fiat, no doubt about that. Great looking small car, with clever retro-elements and good interior space in relation to the outside dimensions. Very accessible for a large group of younger people, because of attractive pricing and lots of possibilities to build ‘your own car’. Technically based on Panda though, which already won the trophy four years ago. Suspension has its limits and damping is not always convincing. Great interior design though and future also promises more interesting stuff in Abarth-, Giardiniera- and Convertible-versions.
Qashqai has every possibility to turn into a ‘cash cow’ for the Nissan-brand. One of the best looking and nicely styled crossovers of recent years. More importantly also handles easy and with a very good stability and road behavior. 4WD-versions offer limited offroad use, but more important are the great interior space and manual/automatic/cvt-possibilities.
New Mondeo is above all a very large car, full of character and with nice technical features, like the Easyfuelsystem, that shields you from filling your tank with the wrong fuel. Nevertheless, the platform was already shown on last year winner S-Max and in that way the Mondeo, apart from its design, doesn´t offer true innovation. However, road behavior and equipment are tremendously good. Instrument panel on Titanium is a bit ‘overdesigned’ though.
My judgement is based on following grounds:
Kia Ceed
The Korean automaker really raised the bar with the Cee´d. Convincing overall quality of the build construction and materials, sophisticated chassis, very roomy interior and spacious luggage compartment, competitive engines and a broad range of body variations (hatchback, coupe, station wagon) are some of its main attributes. But there’s more: in a segment where rationality plays a big role, the attractive pricing, the top marks in the crash tests conducted by EuroNCAP and the 7 year factory warranty also play a decisive role in the car’s appeal. The design still lacks character and inspiration.
Mercedes C Class
The new generation C Class improves in may aspects. The design is much more appealing (inheriting some S Class genes), namely in the case of the Avantgard front end, where the star is included in the front grill and not on top of the hood. The new dashboard scores important points by showing a more ergonomic configuration and better fit and finish whereas the increased space inside will also be appreciated by the passengers (even if the central rear passenger is still ill treated). But Mercedes added a not of fun to the usual comfort and safety note that traditionally dominates the car’s handling thanks to the new suspension and suspension tuning, as well as more balance weight distribution. The engine range is globally more powerful and more environmentally conscious and the prices have been kept despite the new and added content.
Fiat 500
The most delicious car we have seen in many years is not all about retro-modern inspired looks. From the moment you slam the door it is clear the build construction is now one of the major concerns of Fiat: the perceived quality is a very positive surprise also inside where the playful combination of colors and creative surfaces makes the dashboard as pleasant to look at as the lovely body lines. The engine palette will be extended (from the Panda known 1.2, 1.4 and 1.3 diesel units in the near future with a eco-friendly 2 cylinder unit and a top of the range emotional Abarth. There is not a lot of innovation in both platform and chassis but the proof that the overall structure has been reinforced is the fact that the 500 is the first A segment car to achieve 5 stars in the EuroNCAP tests (whereas the Panda could not get more than three…).
Nissan Qashqai
The Qashqai gives the European customers what they want: a high sitting position car, with a compact SUV aura, a discreet ability to go on moderate off-road (4×4 versions) and small diesel engines to make it affordable. Besides that it features good plastics on the dashboard, praised by its uncomplicated layout. Nissan (petrol) and Renault (diesel) engines prove to be well adapted for this trendsetter, specially in the case of the 1.5 dCi mated to a 6 speed manual gearbox, which combine to create a difficult to beat offer (moreover in countries with an engine displacement sensitive tax system, such as Portugal). The interior is not particularly flexible (rear seat does not move in any sense) and the steering feels artificial.
Peugeot 308
The French brand was quite conservative when it decided to replace the very successful 307. It kept the same platform and suspensions (though revised and updated), the same body and interior concept and package (even if with improved quality and new features) and it invested on the same body versions of the previous generations: 3 door, 5 door, Estate and Coupé-cabrio, one of the most comprehensive of any model in this overcrowded segment. The engine range bets on the proven HDi diesels and the more efficient BMW co-developed petrol units. All in all, the 308 is a very decent vehicle but it will definitely not get any marks for being creative or surprising.
Mazda 2
Finally Mazda managed to get rid of the boxy Demio concept and it is henceforth represented in this class with a much more appealing concept. The new “2” shows dynamic and attractive lines on the more compact and lighter body (thanks to the use of ultra high tensile steel which has positive effects on both consumptions/performances and emissions). The life cell provides quite impressive space for 4 or 5 passengers (far better than the limited boot capacity) but there are some faults in terms of overall quality (hard plastics on the too dark dashboard and a poorly finished glove box). Taking on the same chassis/suspension of the predecessor helped to achieve the competitive price positioning Mazda is known for.
My judgement is based on following grounds:
Fiat 500
It has to score highest. No car in years has generated as much interest from the car-buying public, and never has a much-loved retro design been so effectively and intelligently reconfigured. This is the year of the Fiat, and if it does not win COTY the world will wonder what on earth we were thinking. This is not about massively innovative engineering or earnestly worthy green-ness: it’s about the car as a covetable, lovable but still-practical object and the way people relate to it. The 500 is not perfect, with a tiresomely choppy ride on poor British roads, so it doesn’t merit the full 10 points. But I’d have one all the same, especially at the unexpectedly low prices asked.
Mazda 2
Objectively, this is the most admirable supermini on sale today. It reverses the trend towards excess weight, and it’s just as much fun to drive as its neat looks suggest it would be with a blend of steering precision, handling interactivity and ride comfort better than in any current rival. It falls down on its cheap interior and the fact it has the Fiat to contend with. Nevertheless, the Mazda 2 is how a mainstream supermini should be.
Ford Mondeo
As with previous generations, Ford raises the bar for mainsteam family cars with a Mondeo to worry the premium brands. It’s delightful to drive, but size is its defining feature. It’s vast, which is good for passengers but compromises its handiness on today’s crowded roads. To me, it’s just too big.
Kia Cee’d
Or Hyundai i30: either will do, because both fully and finally hit the mark as lower-medium hatchbacks completely competitive with the European and Japanese best. The Cee’d’s interior is plasticky and the name is daft, but we’re talking Ford Focus-level handling and ride here at a bargain price. A fine effort.
Mercedes-Benz C-class
It took the C220 CDI, not available at the V6-dominant initial launch, to make me realise what a good car the new C-class is. Remarkable pace and refinement combine with the best steering of any car in this size class. Unfortunately, the Mondeo shows just how much extra you pay for the Mercedes name.
Nissan Qashqai
This is a car of its time, part-hatchback, part-guilt-free faux SUV. Nissan is to be congratulated on reading the wants of the buying public so perceptively and creating a new type of car. It offends purist notions of what a car should be, but clearly that doesn’t worry its many buyers.
Peugeot 308
Zero points? The 308 was in my shortlist and is a very good car, but the others here are better – including, crucially, the Cee’d whose more sophisticated suspension gives both a quieter ride and crisper steering. Full marks for the best lower-medium Peugeot interior yet, though.
My judgement is based on following grounds:
Fiat 500
This very emotional car is a nearly perfect example for the transfer of a legend into a modern concept. The design, first of all, shows a modern car with a lot of quotes from the former Cinquecento, which saves his charme perfectly. Nevertheless the 500 is nice to drive, is more spacy than his forefather, he has a lot of security features. Also his price makes him already an attractive choice – as his success already shows.
Mazda2
A very attractive small car, which turns the trend of the moment, that every new car is greater and heavyer than his predecessor. This is the most important argument for the Mazda. Besides that he drives very nice and easy, he is spacy even for long runs and its interieur design shows the ability to be simple to handle on one side and attractive to look at on the other. A nice and pragmatic car.
Mercedes C-Class
Before the arriving of the new Audi A4, the C-Class has been the top-performer in the premium middle-class. He shows a nearly perfect performance: Modern and clear design with two options between a sporty and a more classical look, driving is both dynamic and extraordinary comfortable, steering has been clearly improved and a lot of assistant systems are available. Remarkable is the range of new motors with reduced fuel consumption. Unfortunately price-level is very high.
Kia c’eed
The new compact Kia demonstrates the rise of the Korean brand during the last two years. The design has turned to a European clear and modern way, it is nice to drive apart from it’s steering. Unfortunately driving comfort is poor. On the other side the c’eed is spacy enough and is affordable to buy.
Ford Mondeo
The new Mondeo is one of the spaciest cars of his class nd has undoubtedly made a jump forward concerning the exterior design. One cannot say it has the same level inside. Poor look everywhere. Nontheless you get a lot of car for your money.
My judgement is based on following grounds:
As for the latest years the choice of an outstanding candidate was rather difficult. For instance, the Ford Mondeo is a fine car. Like the Ford S-Max, from which the Mondeo shares platform, engines and other techniques. But the S-Max was already our Car of the Year in 2007. This is also true for the Peugeot 308 which is an evolution of the former 307, also a Car of the Year. The Mercedes C is an outstanding car, but in a top market. And then there was the choice of new technologies of good marketing: Mazda2 or Fiat 500?
I chose the Mazda2, as for the first time a successor is lighter and so also more fuel-efficient. Another plus point is that the Mazda2 is a good looking and spacious small family car, it has a good behaviour and good driving skills. The platform is one of the best in the segment and as the car is Japanese built, the quality is outstanding.
Of course the Fiat 500 is one of the most charming cars, it’s a heartbreaker. I liked its handling, driving and sexy appeal who reminds me at the real Fiat-thing. Marketeers gave us a product that is a synthesis of nostalgia, modern comfort and good driving. But the base of the new Fiat 500 is the Panda, without really new techniques.
I appreciated the new Nissan Qashqai because it proved that a car for everybody could grow to a nice and practical SUV-liked car. So one can get a real all round 4×4-car, a quality car, for a little extra money.
As I mentioned already the Ford Mondeo is an outstanding car. But this car is very much alike to the Ford S-Max which was already Car of the Year in 2007, a little bit of copy and paste in a new version.
The Kia Cee’d is a really good car and even the best synthesis of what exists in his segment on the market for a very good price. But the only really new thing is the seven years warranty.
My judgement is based on following grounds:
Fiat 500
With the new 500, Fiat has really brought something new into the small car segment: excitement! Its retro design inside and out is brilliantly done. And the 500 is not only hip, sexy and fun, it’s also a pretty good car. It’s roomy enough, considering its size. The perceived quality is very high and it has a five star Euro NCAP rating. But most important: wherever the Fiat 500 appears people just start smiling. And that’s an amazing achievement.
Mazda2
I think making the new Mazda2 smaller and lighter than its predecessor was a very good idea. The weight loss results in a sportier feel and better fuel economy. And despite the smaller size the interior packaging is still okay. I also like the exterior design very much.
Nissan Qashqai
The Qashqai tries to be a little bit of everything: coupe, MPV, SUV. An almost impossible combination, but it does make the Qashqai a lot more interesting than the rather boring Almera it replaces. It handles very well and the high driving position is great. The Qashqai also received the highest score ever in Euro NCAP.
Ford Mondeo
The new Ford Mondeo is not only bigger but also a lot more refined than the previous one. The perceived quality is definitely much higher, and it offers a lot more comfort and equipment. The exterior design is excellent, and the estate looks especially good.
Mercedes C-class
The new C-class is a big step forward. It has inherited a lot of hi-tech features from the S-class, such as active damping. The interior also is almost of S-class standards. The recently added Estate looks fantastic. The C-class has a range of excellent engines and the Sport versions are as much fun to drive as a BMW 3-series. Well, almost!
Kia Cee’d
The Kia Cee’d is probably the best Korean car ever. Developed and built in Europe its quality is really up to European standards. It’s roomy and it handles well and it received 5 stars from Euro NCAP. So, there’s a lot to like about the Cee’d, but I am not too happy with its exterior design, and I can’t get used to the strange name.
Peugeot 308
The Peugeot 307 was already quite good. The new 308 is in many aspects a little better, for instance interior space and perceived quality. But underneath it’s mostly still a 307. Unfortunately the 308 is quite a bit heavier than the 307, making it a thirstier and less agile. I don’t like the exterior styling very much.
My judgement is based on following grounds:
Citroën C5
A much better-looking car than its predecessor with improved handling and a choice of suspension systems, conventional steel-spring or ‘oleopneumatic’ self-levelling (Hydractive 3 Plus). The interior is more spacious, comfortable and finished to a higher standard than the previous C5 with more attention to detail. Good choice of engines and transmissions. The Citroen C5 is certainly one of the most appealing cars in the segment
Ford Fiesta
It’s not easy to produce a global car that drivers all over the world will enjoy, but Ford did a great job with the all-new Fiesta. All all-round performer, lighter than the previous car and more comfortable, more refined, better on the road, fun to drive and with great engines.
Opel/Vauxhall Insignia
Looking and driving the Insignia I understood why Opel changed the designation from Vectra to Insignia. In fact, this is a completely new car with a much better design, more refined and comfortable and better constructed. The handling is also very good, but I expected a bet5ter balanced range of engines.
Volkswagen Golf
Looking at the new Golf you probably feel that it’s more a restyling than a completely new car. But, external changes aside, the sixth generation Golf represents a sensible improvement over the previous car. This is true in terms of quality, handling, comfort (including noise reduction) and also engines, with very good petrol and refined diesel engines.
Renault Mégane
The third-generation Megane is far more conservative in design than its predecessor, more appealing for the buyers of this kind of cars. Globally, it’s not a radical change in terms of handling, ride quality and performance, but the new Megane is well balanced in its characteristics.
My judgement is based on following grounds:
If the Car of the Year-Jury should select the most emotional Car of the Year my choice would be clear: the Fiat 500. But as we are selecting the best NEW Car of the Year, my choice has to be the Mazda2, as it is a cute, good-looking little car with astonishing driving qualities, built with high quality and – best of all – with an impressing weight reduction of 100 kilograms compared to the old Mazda2. The Mazda2 is as good as a small car should be. Therefore this has to be my Car of the Year.
Mercedes-Benz has built another car near to perfection – the C-Class is excellent to drive and its abilities on the road are extraordinary. But this kind of engineering has its price – and this is why this car is only my Number 2 on the list.
The Ford Mondeo is another excellent example of the new design and engineering quality from Cologne – it looks good, drives well and is well built. With cars like the new Mondeo, Ford should be looking into a much better future.
One of the big surprises of this year is the quality of the KIA Cee`d – Kia has not only built a good-looking car, but it is also built in excellent quality and in terms of Fun to Drive the Cee`d is as good as any other European competitor.
Off course everybody loves the Fiat 500 – and I loved every mile behind the wheel of this marketing and retro miracle. And of course I am waiting for the Abarth and the Giardinetta… But as this is definitely not a new car, it cannot be a Car of the Year in my opinion.
One point goes to the Peugeot 308, a nice car, but not an extraordinary car – the design is a bit too much and in terms of driving the 308 does not offer the smoothness we are used to from this well-established manufacturer. And the Nissan Quasqai? That seems to me to be just another SUV like many others – the car looks nice, o.k. But that`s it…
My judgement is based on following grounds:
Mazda2
Less weight is the right way! Mazda2 is not only lighter, but also roomy and quiet in the class. And good looking. Especially young people liked the Mazda2 when I was driving the car at home.
Kia Cee’d
Seven years warranty is interesting and put Kia Cee’d right into the tough class. Five-star-Cee’d is also the first Kia with a real European feeling.
Ford Mondeo
The new Mondeo gives a real feeling of class. With a almost perfect chassis and steering it is a fun and safe car to drive. It is a true sense of security.
Fiat 500
It may be a Panda under cover, but 500 is a cute, nice-to-drive-car with personality and a lot of quality feeling. Five stars in crashtest is also impressive.
Mercedes C-klass
Class and quality, comfortable and fun to drive.
My judgement is based on following grounds:
My judgement is based on the following grounds: How do you combine the contradictory requirements which the COTY regulations impose on the candidates to the title? Do you need a miracle? No! It is enough to have a car which is “only” as good as the new Ford Mondeo – with an unconventional, modern design; which makes it stand out in the crowd; spacious and functional; having a true family character, but in which you are not ashamed to go to a business meeting; solidly made with good quality materials; offering many options for customizing the way it looks; economic and environmentally friendly, thanks to a range of diesel engines to choose from; comfortable, but also fun to drive; and offering good value. The Ford Mondeo gets the obligatory ten points from me. This year’s most interesting finalists include:
Fiat 500 (4 points), whose design is nice, but overwhelms all its other features. “Well done!” for the Fiat for producing – instead of a three-door Panda, but using its subassemblies – a car which arouses positive emotions and which is simply nice to possess. Kia Cee’d (3 points), which has managed to change the image of the Korean manufacturer. Not only because of its seven-year guarantee and very good crash test results, but also thanks to a very good relationship of price to overall quality (workmanship, road grip, comfort). Mazda 2 (3 points), because it has broken away from the boring design of its predecessor and offers solutions you won’t find in its competitors. Nissan Qashqai (3 points), which successfully combines the advantages of a traditional hatchback with features typical of SUVs (a raised body, the elevated position of the driver, the four-wheel-drive option). It’s a pity though that this amalgamation comes with such a hefty price tag. In terms of money, the Qashqai is nearer SUVs than small family cars.
When judged against the virtues of their competitors (for instance, the spaciousness of the new Ford Mondeo, the audacious style of the Fiat 500, the seven-year guarantee of the Kia Cee’d, the lightweight strategy of the Mazda 2 or the universal character of the Nissan Qashqai), the changes made to the Mercedes C-class and the Peugeot 308 should be regarded as “evolution” rather than “revolution” (except for the design of the new C-class, which at last has started to attract slightly younger customers to the make). For a step sideways instead of forward, both the Mercedes C-class and the Peugeot 308 win one point each.
My judgement is based on following grounds:
FIAT 500
Not only it has an appealing design and a roomy cabin for its size: it also means the start of a whole project with great development possibilities. Five stars in Euro NCAP crash test endorse its seriousness.
NISSAN QASHQAI
A very interesting idea midway between a SUV and a compact hatchback. Impeccable product for its build quality and excellent behaviour. The offer of integral transmission is an important added value.
MAZDA2
Design, size and weight are key factors. It leaves the MPV format to offer a younger and prettier body style. Its lightness and compact dimensions give a very satisfactory road attitude.
KIA CEE’D
A very interesting product for the roominess of the cabin, the evolution in quality, safety and the outstanding handling. In the minus side, the design, high price and the fact that Kia has not a fully established image.
FORD MONDEO
It shares platform and many components with S-Max and Galaxy. It changes so much over its predecessor that it poses as belonging to an upper segment. It stands out for build quality, roominess and equipment.
PEUGEOT 308
A natural evolution over the 307, sharing many components; there is an improvement in build quality, safety and handling, being more efficient and better balanced. Its conservative design brings little to the segment.
MERCEDES C-CLASS
It’s not the improvement over the predecessor we anticipated. Bigger ouside but not inside, with a rather restricted cabin. Quality does not improve either. The design brings along some visual sportiness.
My judgement is based on following grounds:
The previous Mondeo was a reference in its segment and now history is repeating itself. Magnificent dynamic behavior, as if it were a display car premium segment, wide range of engines and a value for money interesting.
Very good work done with the Cee’d and all its versions. Well presented with an excellent dynamic behavior, and some engines good performance especially in diesel. It is a pity that the esthetics of the car not be more modern.
Fiat has always done very well highlighted by small cars and the new 500 continues to demonstrate. Excellent work esthetic, spacious interior despite the size and good engines.
Esthetically, Mazda2 could almost be the winning car, but this feeling is not perceived in the interior too sober and sad and with little space in the rear seats. The dynamic behavior is good as well as the performance of the engines.
Undoubtedly, the Qashqai is the best model that the manufacter has launched lately. Well finished and better presented, as a whole is a good product with a range of engines proven reliability.
Logic developments, in this case the 308 has gained dynamic behavior and performance of the engines.
I did not expect less in a Mercedes and the C-Class follows the line shown in other models in terms of progress.
My judgement is based on following grounds:
Fiat 500 has an irresistible design and it makes people happy when they look at it. But the charming little retro-car also responds to most of the demands we must put on modern vehicles: it is compact in size but with a very high safety, it has engines which consume little fuel and it does not harm the environment so much. Fiat 500 is simply the right car for our time.
Kia Cee´d gives much for a reasonable prize and not only good equipment and generous guarantees. The protection against rust is at the same high level as on the best European cars. Five stars in EuroNCAP adds extra value to all the Cee´d models.
Mazda2 is an enjoyable and practical little car; supple and easy to drive. The engines are mean and alert. Mazda´s successful strategy to reduce weight will surely inspire other car producers.
The smart body gives Nissan Quashqai a legible personality, but it is also a safe and practical family car with high comfort. The possibility to choose between two- or four wheel drive is a great benefit in our country.
Mercedes C-class is not a car for everyone, but for those who can afford it becomes a great vehicle with an unique quality feeling, elegance and status.
My judgement is based on following grounds:
Choosing the winner for this year’s Car of the Year was exceptionally hard. There were several good candidates for the title, although all with varying basics.
I chose the Mazda2 as number one because in addition to it being an excellent, all new small car, it is also a serious attempt to lower emissions by using the most effective and long-lasting way, by reducing the mass of the vehicle.
Second place I gave to the Fiat 500 because of its excellent nostalgic styling, which is destined to make it a desired cult car.
The Kia cee’d deserves as good a position because it has the best value for the money among this short-list group of seven. However, overall the car is quite ordinary, and that’s the reason I didn’t give it the top position.
In my opinion, four other finalists didn’t quite reach the level of this trio, but definitely were noteworthy. The Ford Mondeo is a good car in its own class, but clearly an evolved version of the previous model sharing the same platform with the winner of last year, S-Max.
The Mercedes Benz C and the Peugeot 308 are also basically evolutionary versions of their predecessors, even though very advanced in many ways.
The Nissan Qashqai is an interesting crossover-model, but all of its characteristics do not seem too thrilling to me.
My judgement is based on following grounds:
It’s not simply matter of “nostalgia”: yes, the Fiat 500 is the result of an excellent job in terms of styling, but is also extremely easy to drive. Above all, the quality is at the top of its category, and by far. Nissan Qashqai properly claims an uncommon value for money, offering the personality of an Suv at the price of a normal sedan of its class, while ride and comfort are also appreciable. Mazda2 marks a significant U turn, cutting weight and size; can be appreciated for its handling qualities, and blamed only for the poor image of the interior. Peugeot 308, Ford Mondeo and Kia Cee’d are close to the top in their categories, with remarkable improvements for perceived quality and driving dynamics: an interesting evolution, but the concept is still the same.
My judgement is based on following grounds:
Ford Mondeo
It’s hard to imagine how Ford could have got this car wrong, given the strength of the outgoing model. While it has clearly grown in size, the consequent effects on handling don’t topple it from top spot and it remains the benchmark for front-wheel-drive family cars.
In terms of design – increasingly as important as handling for buyers stuck in traffic and averaging 10km/h – the new Mondeo is certainly bigger, but the look is not quite as bold as we would have hoped for. There are some smart sculpting lines on the arches and bonnet, but the much-lauded kinetic design still sounds like marketing-speak.
That said, several smart touches inside – along with some really impressive rear seat space and luggage room – make this our favourite family car on the market at present.
Ford has got the blend between refinement and fun just right. The precise steering feedback and positive handling characteristics please the driver, while the improved refinement will keep passengers content. For all the talk of family cars getting premium makeovers, the Mondeo shows that mainstream models can still offer an impressive blend of driver fun, creature comfort and competitive price.
Fiat 500
The coolest fashion accessory to be launched by a car firm this year, Fiat is going back to its roots with the 500. While the Italians may be guilty of some cynical retro-marketing, you can’t help but smile when you spot a 500 on the road, or sit inside. It’s the best-built cabin in a Fiat in years and the long list of options only add to the fun of the 500. But it’s more than simply some fancy marketing ploy: the car is remarkably practical for its size and good fun to drive. The fact that Fiat managed to garner five-star Euro NCAP for a car of this size is also worth applauding. On the road, its Panda roots quickly become apparent, but that’s not really a complaint for it means the 500 has a good mix of agile handling and compliant ride. Its diminutive stature also gives it a real go-kart feel around town.
The entry-level powertrain is impressive and from what we are told the range is set to feature even more innovative engine technology in the coming years. Your head might dismiss it as a marketing trick, but your heart has already signed the cheque.
Mazda2
The message from the Mazda2 is clear: bigger is not always better. The decision to break free from the supermini space race is to be commended and the fact they have done this while at the same time coming up with a car that’s great fun to drive, is a credit to all involved.
Shedding 100kgs in a car this size is really impressive, and maintaining the interior space to fit four adults while also securing a five-star Euro-NCAP safety rating demonstrates the depth of engineering talent at Mazda these days.
It doesn’t end there: steering is pin-point accurate and its agile handling makes it our favourite supermini on the market. Our only gripe is that Mazda needs to put a little more effort into the interior trim, while the “sportier” versions on larger wheels are too harsh in terms of ride quality.
Kia Cee’d
Arguably the greatest leap in terms of product this year has been made by the Korean brands in the family hatchback segment. Where once they were merely the bargain basement buys, both Hyundai and Kia are now offering smart alternatives to the established brands.
The Cee’d is light and nimble on the road, spacious inside and its 1.4-litre petrol engine is well suited to the car. We were particularly taken with the handling of the Cee’d estate wagon, which had cornering ability far in excess of what we would have expected.
Inside the Cee’d is spacious, comfortable and the more stylish than anything we’ve seen from the Koreans to date. The seven-year warranty may be dismissed by rivals as a marketing gimmick, but it’s a very smart one. It illustrates to the customers the level of confidence by the manufacturer in the model and acts as a reassurance to those new to the brand. If this is a marketing gimmick then let’s have a few more of these, please.
Mercedes C-Class
A notable improvement on previous models, the C-Class is finally making headway in its attempts to topple the BMW 3-Series. The handling has been significantly sharpened compared to previous generations, while the look has also received a much-needed revamp, with the new avant garde line-up appealing to younger buyers. Interior quality is heading in the right direction, if not quite there yet.
My judgement is based on following grounds:
To be honest, I have no uncompromised, breakthrough leader of the year. Lively road manners of Mazda2, sexy exterior and impressive weight-saving technologies combine with a boring, cheap-looking interior and problems with a field of view caused by limited section of left wiper and reflections of some “metallic” parts of interior in rear-view mirrors.
Mondeo most probably has the best tuned “kinetic” chassis in its segment with precise manners and good interface between the car and the driver. But, taking into account its expansion into a bigger segment, Mondeo has limited comfort for passengers (first of all, high level of vertical accelerations) and only one petrol engine combined with the automatic gearbox.
Great driving pleasure given by Peugeot 308 (probably, first time after 405 and 306) supported by fantastic naturally aspirated and turbo BMW petrol engines, was diminished by 207-like exterior, although new return of “8” series, in my opinion, had to bring something fresh.
Nissan Qashqai disappointed me by artificially heavy, but not informative feedback from the steering wheel: the most memorized impression of driving is feeling that air pressure in front tyres is twice less than necessary.
Interior of the new dynamic Mercedes left strange feelings by Opel-like solutions. Nothing against Opel! But what is premium brand, Opel or Mercedes?
Kia Cee’d was a real surprise. Elegant, practical, with fully independent rear suspension… Great step ahead for relatively young Korean manufacturer! But it is enough to drive, for example, Peugeot 308 to recognize that for Cee’d it is still early to take place among best models of the Golf segment. What really made me a little happier is nostalgic but contemporary beautiful Fiat 500. Well, there’re some problems with ergonomics, its electric power steering, even after significant improvements, still does not give me good feeling of the car… But all in all, this car, more than any other, brings bright sunny colors in our everyday life for reasonable price. This is my choice.
My judgement is based on following grounds:
I think the Kia Cee’d was a great leap forward, compared to not only its predecessor, but all other participants of the lower medium segment. The level of quality, the powerful engines, the outstandingly spacious passenger compartment, the seven year warranty, and last but not least the low price all work in its favour. The Mazda2 impressed me that it follows a different way than almost all other small cars nowadays. It dared to become lighter to provide lower fuel consumption and enjoyable drive, but still remained safe. It looks nice, spacious, and the engine range is wide enough that everybody can find a suitable for their demands. The only problem the price, which is higher than average. Nevertheless the biggest hit of this as well the next year is the Fiat 500, which is the most charming car of the decade. And, beside of this, it is a really practical minicar with enough space for four adults, acceptable size boot, powerful and frugal engines, and unimaginably wide range of accessories. On top of that, the price of the Fiat 500 is not as high as other retro models, and because of this much more consumers can buy it. One of the interesting answers for the changing demand of the consumers is the Nissan Qashqai. More and more people want SUV, but the real ones harm the environment with their high fuel consumption and CO2 emission. The Qashqai sits higher, like an SUV, but since really it is an elevated lower medium car, it does not consume more fuel. Because of its spaciousness, roadholding, driveability the Ford Mondeo is one of the most prominent cars of the medium segment, but it is not really astonishing after the excellence of the S-Max. It is remarkable what Peugeot did with the 308. It rides well, holds the roads well, the engines are excellent, the passenger compartment is snug, the quality level is impressive, and the whole car is affordable. What more do you want? The Mercedes C-Class is nice, very practical and contains a lot of remarkable technical solution. But the price tag…
My judgement is based on following grounds:
The Fiat wins for me. It’s not just a cute piece of retro jewellery. It is a safe, clean, strong small car. It’s fun to drive. For its price range, it has superb interior finish and an unprecedented range of customisation options, so people will make it ‘their car’ and feel attached to it. Fiat intends to keep it at the forefront by giving it high-tech new engines and transmissions. If people from larger cars downsize into a 500 – and if they don’t need space, they might well – than it will be good for the environment too.
The Mondeo is an excellent car. At first I resisted it because it felt too big for its class, and heavy. But then, it’s really a car from a class higher: the estate has vast capacity. In that context it could do with a bigger diesel engine, but we know that’s coming. Otherwise it scores strongly where Fords always do – it’s great to drive.
The C-class is an even better car than the Mondeo. Everything the Ford does, the Mercedes does a little better. It’s better made, offers more finesse for the driver, more refinement and comfort. But look at the prices. In my view the Mercedes isn’t innovative enough to justify the price premium demanded.
The Mazda is admirable, so it too gets five points. It cuts weight in two ways: clever technology, and the simple expedient of throwing out things most customers don’t need, such as fancy rear-seat folding mechanisms. It’s stylish and fun. It would be my winner if it didn’t have such a cheap-feeling interior and wasn’t so noisy.
The Qashqai is selling like hot cakes because it hits the reason most people buy SUVs – a high body and tough looks – without the heavy fuel consumption or cumbersome driving experience. But the shortage of space in the rear seat and boot is a big drawback in what’s really a family car. There’s nothing wrong with the Kia or Peugeot. They’re both really good compact hatchbacks. But ‘really good’ isn’t good enough: for me any Car of the Year must be a clear class leader and neither is. Still, I’m giving a point to the Kia for value and warranty.
My judgement is based on following grounds:
Fiat 500
Innovative in every aspect and with interesting design features, even when they address to recreate the legendary model. Well adapted powerline and excellent evolution job over the Panda platform. No doubt 2007 will be recalled as the year when this history-loaded car was born.
Ford Mondeo
The best accomplished model of this list. Well built and equipped, with a wide offer in engines and bodies, and an obvious quality improvement in materials. Against it, only the fact that previously awarded S-Max is about the same car.
Mazda2
Excellent accomplishment in weight reduction, also in design (even if that is a subjective matter). It has not followed the path of competitors in increasing dimensions; nevertheless it has an ample interior. It lacks some additional engines and body styles.
Kia cee’d
Pity the dull and tasteless design. Otherwise the manufacturer has improved in everything: in perceived quality and in creating a family of cars and providing it with suitable power lines. The ideal blend: the perfectioned Hyundai i30 design and the safety of cee’d.
Mercedes-Benz C-class
Simply fantastic. If the previous C was good, this one is better in every aspect. Pity we can not talk of a completely new car but, openly, of a god evolution over the predecessor.
Nissan Qashqai
A bold try to create a different car inside the compact-car segment.Midway between a SUV, a MPV and a wagon, it is going to be one of the ‘punished’ models in emissions, mostly because of aerodynamics.
Peugeot 308
No doubt it will be a sales success, as the rest of the saga, but in fact is just an evolution of the previous model. In the other hand, it has lost the personality of that sporty feeling, to focus more in comfort.
My judgement is based on following grounds:
Mazda2 represents this year innovation and progress in a much needed area for the conventional car: Reducing weight. As well as for the human being weight is also killing overall performance of the car. By turning their back to the trend of a successor getting bigger and heavier Mazda swims upstream, but in my opinion they are right in doing so and others might even follow. The new Mazda2 looks good and modern and has gained a lot in agility, performance, economy and safety by reducing the weight some 100 kilos over the predecessor and a lot more compared to some competitors. The feel-good factor and joy of driving is high and the price is competitive. All together what more can you ask of a B-car equally suitable for town and country? My winner by far this year and with maximum score:10 points to Mazda2.
Would good looks and immense charm be the only criteria for winning the Car of the Year trophy Fiat Cinquecento would be a sure winner in my book. I truly enjoy driving the little 500 and love being seen in it even if I am well aware the mostly female audience are only looking and smiling at the car. Innovation is not at the same level as of my winning car, but with seven points to Fiat 500 I want to pay tribute to the quantum leap in safety Fiat has made, the head turning presence of the charming car and the exciting derivatives to come.
European built Kia cee’d is a family of good cars, although very conventional, with good quality, space and safety at an attractive price. The punter gets a complete package for the money including an unchallenged warranty of seven years or 150.000 km. In a tax burdened country like Denmark this counts heavily, so Kia cee’d is obvious for third place with four precious points.
Nissan Qashqai seems to hit the nail right on the head. The style is different and new to the class, which hardly existed before, and Nissan Qashqai steps in where the X-Trail would be too much 4×4 even if Qashqai offers the same technology. It just doesn’t show, which could be an advantage in a time where four-by-fours get gradually more unpopular in residential areas. Two encouraging points for this new approach.
Peugeot 308 shows that Peugeot is back on track with better build quality and ride comfort. The style is very cautious and not up my street, but on the other hand the 307 sold very well despite notorious flaws. So two points for getting it better and maybe right…
My judgement is based on following grounds:
Mazda2
The Mazda2 was the biggest surprise of the year. A very well made small car, charming, good design outside, enough space inside. And lots of fun to drive. The most important point that puts the Mazda above his competitors: weight reduction. That’s a sign for the future, that’s the way the car-industry has to go (besides other things, of course).
Fiat 500
Everybody seems to love this car – and there are very good reason to do so. Of course the design is amazing, retro, yes, but in a very modern interpretation. And then there is the probably most beautiful car-dashboard since years. Also to mention: the big step ahead Fiat made in quality. And the five stars in the NCAP. The only problem with the Fiat 500: The car does not show anything new, no direction into the future. And the seating-position is much too high.
Ford Mondeo
A very well made car – difficult to find anything negative about it. Its fun to drive, comfort and road-holding are definitely premium-class. The car is not too heavy, there is a lot of space, Ford seems to be on the right way with quality and also design. On the other hand, there is no big news compared to last years winner, the S-Max. And the engines are not extraordinary.
Mercedes C-Class
Of course one could find some negative points about he new C-Class: The design is too conservative, there is not enough interior space, prices are very high – and we are still waiting for some new engines within the Mercedes program. But the C-Klass is also a very safe car, easy to drive and very comfortable, brings upperclass-technique to the midclass-segment.
Peugeot 308
The problem with the Peugeot 308: Everything is good – but nothing is extraordinary. Design is good, there is a lot of space, great comfort, very good (Diesel-)engines. But there is also a lack of emotions.
My judgement is based on following grounds:
Kia cee’d
A significant improvement of the brand regarding appearance, drivability, safety, technical level and warranty. The overall quality is remarkable in its class. The perceived quality inside is good, thanks to the fine materials. Good engine choice (with state-of-the-art diesel), demanding suspension (at the rear), good road holding. Good value for money headed with the absolutely unique seven year warranty.
Nissan Qashqai
New crossover in the lower medium segment with the advantages of a SUV, but not in an exaggerated form and size with the possibility of all wheel drive. The solution supports fast driving on tarmac, reaching your destination off road, or in bad weather conditions equally. Great engine and transmission range, with small, powerful and economic diesel (1.5 dCi). Well built general quality.
Peugeot 308
Good evolution of the former car of the year with preserved and even improved essential characteristics of the outgoing model. Well proportioned large and spacious body, sophisticated interior, high suspension comfort. Cutting edge, high performance, low consumption (gasoline) engines, and fine and clean diesel offer.
Mazda2
Remarkable step in the direction of weight saving, aiming to spare materials, energy, fuel and more importantly to lessen pollution. As a result of lighter weight the dynamism of the car has improved. Great interior in size and quality, true road holding, really enjoyable fun to drive experience.
Ford Mondeo
Good successor of a successful car. Nice variety of the very well proportioned bodies, based on premium segment components (platform, suspension, engines, transmissions) leaving the prices on a down-to-earth level. Remarkable quality, excellent road holding coupled with the comfort of suspension.
Fiat 500
The revival of the Fiat legend on a well proved basis (Panda), with a high level of safety. Lovable, charming styling, good handling, well assembling- and perceived quality. Engine, petrol and diesel are smooth.
Mercedes-Benz C
Sophisticated car with very good travel comfort, characteristics, technical level and quality. Extraordinary road holding, noise and vibration filtering. Wide range of cutting edge engines and transmissions. All these aims achieved easily by a relatively high, premium price tag.
My judgement is based on following grounds:
Let’s start by dismissing Renault’s Mégane – its five-star NCAP rating is its sole outstanding quality.
Citroën’s C5 sneaks a single point, because it’s so wonderfully refined and has a design that strikes the perfect balance between extrovert and handsome. But it’s no better value than rivals and has bizarre, off-kilter steering.
Like the Citroën, Alfa Romeo’s MiTo appeals to the heart rather than the head. At last the Mini has a welcome, premium brand rival, with cheeky looks and a fine leather/ faux carbonfibre cabin. I applaud its vibrant dynamics – edgy steering, taut ride, plentiful torque steer – which may prove too wild for some customers. Ultimately, it lacks the Mini’s finesse.
It’s pretty much a dead heat between the Skoda Superb and Opel/Vauxhall Insignia. Both have different virtues, the Skoda’s being more prosaic: punters get a lot of car for their cash. Rear accommodation is peerless at this price, and the hatch/saloon versatility will benefit those oddballs that deem a practical five-door downmarket. The interior design, though plain, is impeccably finished. But it lacks refinement – the ride is jolty, the PD diesels are gruff, and wind noise can be noticeable – and it lacks driver engagement.
That’s where the Opel Insignia has the edge, with nicely weighted steering and an eager gearchange, a supple ride, decent refinement and a good spread of performance from the engines. The cabin is inspired, with a prow like a speedboat’s, and quality switchgear. Unlike its predecessor, the Insignia is a desirable car, which should excite its fleet customer base.
My silver medallist is Volkswagen’s Golf 6. This is close to the ideal family car: excellent to drive, quiet and comfortable, well-built and with technology that shames others on the shortlist. A fast, frugal double-clutch gearbox, rear parking camera, adaptive damping and downsized twincharger engines all figure. However, its boring exterior and cabin designs are an absolute turn off.
In contrast, Ford’s Fiesta has so much flair; it will attract funky youngsters and older design progressives. Inside there’s plenty of space and MP3 players and cellphones are easily integrated. There’s substance too, with Ford’s rigorous weight loss programme reducing the Fiesta’s environmental impact. Every aspect feels thoroughly engineered. The Fiesta has many virtues, but one stands out: it’s just about the best car to drive on this shortlist.
My judgement is based on following grounds:
What a lovely car! Even with a real amount of imperfections as hard suspension and a poor turning circle with the six speeds gearbox (the reason why I give it 9 points instead of 10), the Fiat 500 is obviously the more charming car of the year. And I think that it will be important to give an award to such a car that is not claiming only for objective virtues. In addition, it will represent a good chance for Fiat to build up a complete line-up of small premium and profitable cars.
The first quality of the Mazda 2 is the lightness. This gives it an obvious agility, great fuel efficiency and especially, it is very funny to drive even with a small engine. So, the inner appearance is not very stylish, but there is a very good reason why. All the manufacturers have to achieve the same goal: to reduce the weight of the cars.
Nissan Qashqai is a great surprise. At first, it appears to me like a pure “marketing car” with a poor interest. As a matter of fact, it is pleasant to drive, with a high situation as well as real 4×4, and good fuel efficiency, especially when equipped with the 1.5 dCi engine. A very rational family car, and at the same time a really original one.
Someone said: It is easy to make a good car without any pricing problem! But the Mercedes C-class is more than a good car: no fault, light and secure to drive, but a little bit too much expensive.
More affordable, the new Mondeo is better that the old one, more stylish, more hi-tech, but also more bulky and heavier. In addition, it is less comfortable to ride.
The Peugeot 308 is nothing more that a logically and well improved 307.
The Cee’d is a big step forward for the Kia brand, not so important for the car evolution.
My judgement is based on following grounds:
The most important thing about the Mazda 2 is that it has reversed the trend for each new car to be larger and heavier than the one before. Mazda’s saving of 100 kg – 10 per cent of the car’s weight – is a significant achievement. But the car doesn’t feel flimsy and the essential elements are best-in-class: its easy agility and generally good ride; correctly weighted, high-geared steering; smooth and free-revving engines (the 1.3 litre HP is the nicest); and slick gearshift.
The Fiat 500 has a wonderful ability to make everyone smile – it’s fun to look at and to be in. The retro style has been cleverly handled and the marketing pitch is just right: good prices and irresistible options. But, for all that, the new 500 is not the complete all-round car; it is an urban fashion statement rather than a car for all roads and all seasons. On the by-ways of Britain the ride is shocking and the noise of the 100 bhp 1.4 is wearing on a long journey. Better to choose the 1.2 and stay in town.
I have no hesitation in proclaiming the Ford Mondeo the best handling front-wheel drive saloon in the business. No competitor has such a pleasing balance of precise and communicative steering, excellent body control, and a firm but still comfortable ride. That’s not a surprise as these are also the characteristics of the Car of the Year 2007, the Ford S-Max, with which it shares its components. But its diesel engines are rather gruff and although the cabin is comfortable and spacious, the trim and presentation do not quite meet its up-market aspirations.
Overall, the Mercedes C-class is the probably best car on the short list – but then it is also the most expensive. It was a good idea to give some visual differentiation to the Elegance and Avantgarde/Sport versions and it is the latter that demonstrates the driving improvements most convincingly. The diesel engines are quieter than most and increasing the power output while also reducing the fuel consumption of the petrol engines is admirable – but Mercedes’ rivals have already gone a step further in CO2 reduction. Neither the Kia Cee’d nor the Peugeot 308 go to the top of their class but both have special merits. The Kia, the first car from a Korean company to make the short list (though it is made in Slovakia), is a fully competitive new entry in the family hatchback sector and notably good value-for-money, especially since it carries a seven-year warranty. The Peugeot impresses more, the more you drive it. The styling is a matter of taste (it is not to mine) but the new interior is excellent, as are the BMW-designed petrol engines.
My judgement is based on following grounds:
Mazda2
A small car with an exciting design or suprisingly good handling. But the main thing about the new Mazda2 is the weight reduction by aprox. 100 kilo. By this, Mazda shows the other manufacturers the way into the futures: Lighter, leaner or more environmantally friendly.
Nissan Qashqai
The Nissan Qashqai has been suprisingly well received by the Norwegian car buyers. It looks like a sporty 4×4, but almost everybody goes for the front wheel drive version. Thus the price is just a bit higher than a VW Golf. The best of two. In daily use, the roominess and the high seating position is good for families with children.
Fiat 500
A really cute, little car with a lot of history. Good for city-driving, crowded parking-lots, fuel consumption and CO2-emission. The comfort on highways, however, is not impressive. And the small trunk space makes it unpractical even for singels. Five stars in Euro NCAP is very good for such a small car.
Ford Mondeo
It is big, it is good looking and has a lot of exciting new features for a car in this class. Especially some of the safety features are well received. The new Mondeo handles very well, but the big tire size is not only good for the comfort on rough Norwegian roads.
Kia Cee´d
My main reason to award three points to the Cee’d is the new seven years warranty. The first in the car business and apreciated by the customers. Besides this the Cee’d is basically good value for money. Roomy, easy to drive and OK design. But a big contribution to car development?
Peugeot 308
A roomy car in the Golf-segment. Peugeot has put some effort into cutting fuel consumption and CO2-emission. But first when the diesel hybrid is ready in two years time, this car will be a contender for the top spot.
Mercedes C
A good car which offers a lot of comfort, as it should be for this price. Not very roomy and really nothing very new.
My judgement is based on following grounds:
MAZDA2
Very good in dynamics, offers an interesting and simple technique to reduce weight. Although does not increase its external dimensions, it keeps its interior space on the average of its competitors.
FIAT 500
Excellent design. Although it is inspired by the old 500 of 1957, its lines look modern. Good adaptation of the well-known platform of the Panda to get 5 stars in the EuroNCAP crash test. Interesting range of engines, especially the 1.2 gasoline and the 1.3 diesel.
NISSAN QASHQAI
Despite its appearance of SUV, holds the road like a good saloon. Large, comfortable, has an excellent capacity for luggage. Its most objectionable are the too long gear ratios that have been applied to the 2.0 diesel engine.
FORD MONDEO
Safe and fun to drive, provides a good interior space. I must criticize its dimensions, bigger than the average for the segment, and an incomplete range of engines. The diesel version has too long gear ratios. In addition, does not provide any mechanical novelty.
KIA CEE’D
Little impressive by the design, the Korean car surprised by its handling, an excellent range of engines and the apparent quality of the materials used. Also, it is very well finished.
MERCEDES C CLASS
It is a serious progress in terms of performance and quality finishing, regarding the previous model, but suffers from a reduced roominess –rear seats- in relation to its size.
PEUGEOT 308
A case similar to the Mercedes. It supposes an evolution in comfort and presentation of the interiors. But its habitability remains almost equal to the 307.
My judgement is based on following grounds:
Mazda 2 really brings an idea for the future : it’s lightweight concept (consumption, environment, pleasure…).
Fiat 500 is a wonderful marketing concept… and not only because it’s the first small car with such a good safety concept.
Ford Mondeo is a very good family and business car but is not so new compared to S-MAX.
Peugeot 308 is a very good compact car but heavy and not so different than 307.
Kia Cee’d is also very good but not yet at the level of a 308.Nissan Qashqai is a wonderful SUV but… an SUV, with the usual problems of an SUV.
My judgement is based on following grounds:
This has been a tough decision. I’ve chosen the Fiat 500 as my winner, simply because I haven’t known any car for years which has been so universally and instantly desired by customers, which seems an obvious credential for Car of the Year. There’s an argument that says COTY missed a trick when it failed to choose Mini a few years ago. The 500 has been even more instantly popular even than the Mini was then, which makes it very special indeed. The fact that all this appeal is backed up with driving appeal, ingenious design features and a surprising feeling of quality (better than the Panda, on which it is based) reinforces my decision.
The Ford Mondeo is a fine all-round family car, latest in a line of great Fords. It puts pressure back on the premium manufacturers, some of whose offerings are no better dynamically speaking, or to look at. The Peugeot 308 is surprisingly good, and for me marks the beginning of a return to form by Peugeot, who have been off the pace this past few years. I especially like ther Peugeot’s interior design, its refinement and its easy-driving nature. The Mazda 2 is an engaging little car which takes superminis in the right direction, but isn’t memorable enough for the ultimate accolade. The Mercedes C-class is a fine saloon, but I keep thinking the mission of the premium manufacturers is easier than for mainstreamers since they can charge 40 percent more, especially when, as in the C-class’s case, they’re not doing anything fundamentally different from last time.
I don’t like giving finalists no points, but neither the Nissan Qashqai not the Kia Cee’d is a contender in my book. The Cee’d isn’t as good as its more refined Hyundai stablemate, and the Qashqai, though appealing in styling ,isn’t as space-efficient or as good dynamically as I hoped.
My judgement is based on following grounds:
Fiat 500
In a time where even A- and B-segment cars are morphing into mini-predators, with hooded, slitty eyes and snarling, hungry mouths, the new 500 is a real relief. It makes people smile rather than jump for safety. It also marks a great comeback for Fiat which already with the new Bravo proved to be in good shape again. Even more than on the exterior – which was already more or less “frozen” by the concept car Trepiuno – the Fiat designers did the greatest job in the interior. Here they managed to find a fantastic balance between a neo-retro- and modern design with above all – a very high level of perceived quality. Renault – in comparison with the Twingo II – really ought to feel ashamed of itself. Especially since the new Twingo looks so anonymous and bland when parked next to it. Also the five star NCAP rating speaks in favour of a car which doesn’t want to be a MINI in terms of handling and sheer agility but a great star in the cities. And the Abarth version is still to come. Up to now I prefer the 1,2 litre to the rather noisy and tenacious 100 hp-mount. The only two small details I am really missing is a sliding canvas top and the sliding rear bench from the Panda. Now I would love to see Citroën doing a modern incarnation of the 2CV.
Mazda2
Mazda came twice runner-up in the COTY-awards in recent years with the Mazda6 and Mazda3. And were the Fiat 500 not around this year the crown would quite definitely belong to the new Mazda2. The Japanese did small miracles in more than just one respect: First they reduced the weight by 100 Kilos and prevented the car from growing like so many other B-segment contenders did in the past. Secondly they created a design which looks more attractive than the boxy shape of the predecessor and third they managed to find a real fun-to-drive steering and suspension set-up. So overall a B-segment car of highest standard and a benchmark for the next Fiesta.
Mercedes C-class
With the new C-class Mercedes has closed the gap to the BMW 3-series to only a small margin . The car drives as agile as it looks, the design is less organic than the one of the predecessor but conveys solidity and strength and perfectly matches the one of the larger S-class. More points who speak in favour of the Benz are the “Pre-Safe”-safety devices adopted from the larger models, the standard seven airbag-contingent and a 220 CDI Diesel with an average fuel consumption of 6.0 litre/100 km. The C-class T-model looks rather attractive as well and offers again more space and versatility than the predecessor who followed a more “lifestyle” design direction. Only missing is a fuel saving Start/Stop-system which will debut in the A- and B-class next year but which is available already in BMW’s 3-series.
Kia Cee’d
The Cee’d wrote COTY-history as the first ever Korean car that made into the short list. This alone is a massive achievement and proves that the manufacturer is on the right track. What amazes me is that I liked the Kia more than the Toyota Auris, who was advertised during the summer in an omnipresent and pushy way. In many comparison tests against Europe’s best in the C-segment the Cee’d showed competitive results. You can feel from the way the car steers and from the rigid chassis that it was designed in Europe for Europe. The exterior isn’t bad either although there is still room for improvement. But for this next step, Kia has Peter Schreyer who knows the business of so well. Of course also the price (14.000 Euro for the entry version) and the five year warranty are strong trump cards as well.
Nissan Qashqai
Apart from the horrible name this car shows an intelligent way of dealing with the ever more booming compact–SUV theme. The Qashqai avoids the rugged look of – for instance – the Opel Antara in favour of real cross-over shapes and proportions. The interior is nicely done, although space in the rear compartment is limited due to the sloping roof line. Also rearward visibility isn’t great. But also the new VW Tiguan and the forthcoming Ford Kuga prove how clever European manufacturers move the SUV-theme into a more passenger-car-oriented direction. The Qashqai’s success with customers show that the philosophy works.
Ford Mondeo
I can’t conceal a feeling that the new Mondeo has grown a bit too much in size to a near Scorpio-format and that the design especially at the front end is a bit overdone. Driving characteristics are as good as we know them from Focus and S-Max and for sure the new Mondeo is the best of its line so far. But although the designers tried hard to achieve a near Jaguar XF-exterior appearance the strongest selling point will remain the competitive price.
Peugeot 308
The 308 is just an evolution of a theme that was introduced with the 307 and which Peugeot has penetrated with the 207 and 407 to a point where – in my view – could need a new, fresh direction. Especially disappointing is the perceived quality of the interior, as shown by the cheap plastics for the inner door handles and rotary heater controls. Rearward visibility is modest and the odd “upper lip” of the bonnet together with the rest of the exterior surface treatment is at least controversial. Also the 308 has grown from the 307 and I always wonder why manufacturers stick to this strategy since most customers first of all want a compact car that is easy to manoeuvre in tight cities and car parks.
My judgement is based on following grounds:
Alfa Romeo Giulia
The new Alfa Giulia is really special while attending to be a normal limousine. First the things I didn´t like: The car shows some lack in quality, sound and power of the diesel engines. But the concept of the car as a radical driver car, with an extraordinary steering, that is amazing. The Giulia enriches the panel of mid-size-limousines with a sportier note. Beside from that, the authentic design and the good value-for-money get Giulia into third place on my list
Citroën C3
The new Citroen C3 is a really good small city car. But the factor of improvement doesn´t really click. That´s why I gave the C3 only zero points. The most impressive upgrade belongs to the design of the body and the great opportunities to style the car inside. But the unclear steering, the unclear gearbox, that is too much typical citroen. And to less innovative. The good thing for the customer: the car is still very affordable. The bad thing. Head room on the rear seats is rare.
Mercedes Clase E
The new Mercedes E-Class is exactly the car the mercedes-customer expects from mercedes. With all the new technical standards, with a very economical diesel engine, with a great design and high level security systems. The new E-Class matches exactly the needs of there customers. So, there is nothing wrong with the car beside the fact, that there is nothing extraordinary. To me, the new E-Class is a very good car, but exactly the car I expect mercedes to built. There was no special moment, no special step forward, no class-leading moment. Is it to hard to expect something from mercedes? No, that is exactly, what the brand should stand for. So, meeting my expectations is only a bunch of points worth.
Nissan Micra
The new Nissan Micra stands for a brand new design language. Very technically for a small city car, again a total new design for this little box. The car has some interesting design features, not to mention the speaker system in the head rest. But the car itself doesn´t show something special. It drives quiet good, shows a good suspension and too less space in the back. But while driving the car, there is no moment when you ask yourself, why to choose this car instead of another.
Peugeot 3008
The Peugeot 3008 is the first serious attempt of Peugeot to join the class of mid-size-SUV with an own car. And the attempt promises to be very successful. Everything about this car makes fun. The little steering wheel, the accurate steering itself, the suspension, which is not typical peugeot-like to soft, but dynamic and a bit german-like. The space inside the car is perfect for the class, the design elements inside, not to mention the easy to change digital dashboard, the sound system, the automatic gear box, the powerful diesel engine and at least the very much improved quality of the car is just better than all the old Peugeot-SUVs. Congrats to a great french car.
Toyota C-HR
The new Toyota C-HR is a very edgy car. It´s great because it combines the highly recommended hybrid-system to a fancy, unusual city car. An enormous step for Toyota. In addition, the body frame with the lower balance point makes the car fun to drive with the hybrid roll mode. It´s a new kind of quick and efficient driving. But: the interior space is really rare for a family, especially on the rear seats. The design inside is so edgy, that you need high commitment. And the battery technology still stands with the old technic. On the test track, the driving showed some shortfalls in quick actions, which you didn´t notice during daily driving.
Volvo S90/V90
The new Volvo S90/ V90 gets my highest rating. The car is some kind of re-incarnation of what volvo stood for when we were children. Great, solid, functional cars with an outstanding design. With the idea of only using four cylinder engines, the car offers inside more space than nearly all cars on the market. the quality, the dashboard solution with the iPad-idea, the perfect seats and very safe and comfortable driving, that all makes the Volvo to my favorite car of the year. the fuel consumption fits, but even better is the pre-security-systems, which catches the drivers attention much earlier than in an E-Class. Especially the V90 is perfectly done, not to mention the chrome cramp at the rear windows. Better finished like in the Mercedes. The new Volvo V90 is a car that brings back the old strength of Volvo.
My judgement is based on following grounds:
Fiat 500, Cinquecento, is great design, not just retro, but also very modern car with roomy interior, very good road behaviours, powerfull engines and at last, but not least, excellent safety ratings (five star EuroNCAP). In our world, where cars are more and more similar, this is great effort, and example how you could escape from uniformity, but with most modern technology…
Mazda2 is also very nice car, with great power of new engines, very elegant design and especially good trend of reducing weight and reducing overall size, but simultaneously not to compromise comfort.
Ford Mondeo is (for me) best car with front driven wheels in respective segment, even catching some premium German brands. Yes, it has same platform architecture and is sharing technologies with last year winner, but if you look on Mondeo Wagon, who needs S-Max? And there are also hatchback and sedan versions.
Mercedes-Benz C-Class is premium brand model, but I am sure that this car is also value for money, even with higher price. Now with more sporty models on one hand, and comfort models on other, C-Class could satisfy both kind of customers. Engines are excellent.
Nissan Qashqai is interesting car, but I am not sure if everyone wants it instead of classic sedan or hatchback. It seems to be more SUV/MPV-like with higher center of gravity, which could not be advantage…
Kia Cee´d is interesting effort, but the progress there is progress for Kia Motors, who finally reach level of best competitors. Car has clean lines, but don´t we have seen them before? And 7-year warranty is just marketing tool…
Peugeot, sorry, no more points left…
My judgement is based on following grounds:
Fiat 500
Many people like this car, mostly because of styling. It is awakening many memories of the past. But it is not the most important part of the Fiat 500 story that makes this car my first choice for this year’s vote! The manufacturer succeeded to design it as the first small car having some ingredients of bigger cars: verve, dynamism and it is also fashionable and safe. Even the roominess (in the front) is a step higher than in other small cars. Although small cars are not so popular in our market I expect Fiat 500 is going to have a well received start – when it finally arrives.
Mazda2
By far the biggest step forward from the predecessor – not only because of saving so much weight. It is a surprising product from this brand which in the past has never managed to offer such an appealing small car.
Ford Mondeo
In some respect this is really an outstanding car. Well known drive-trains has been combined with ample cabin roominess and reasonable road comfort – as good as in our last year’s winning car, S-Max. To get to this result– of course – there is a disadvantage of quite big exterior; especially questionable for urban traffic is the width of the car.
Kia Cee’d
Good overall quality, best buy for a limited budget.
Nissan Qashqai
Finding a niche in all the niches of European passenger car market is really hard but Nissan succeeded. Qashqai is a car for people who dare to shop differently.
Mercedes-Benz C-class
Best C-class ever.
Peugeot 308
Very much improved in every respect, although the long term quality and reliability can’t be judged in such a short time as the car is out at costumers.
My judgement is based on following grounds:
In my opinion there can be only one winner: the Fiat 500. It is not only a good looking reincarnation of the old Cinquecento, but is also a very well made and very well designed small car. Despite its short ‘nose’ it realized a five star Euro NCAP score, a result of clever engineering. The new 500 is not a cheap effort to make some quick money with a remake of an old car. No, it is a very important car in the future of Fiat and it will father a complete new series of cars and solutions, like a very low emission two cylinder engine, a very affordable ‘Trasformabile’ cabriolet and a very nice ‘Giardiniera’ stationwagon with room for four persons and as much luggage space as in a Golf.
The 500 will also play a very important role in the rebirth of the Abarth brand. It is true that Fiat makes use of the Panda platform (already rewarded with a Car of the Year trophy) for the 500, but Fiat has succeeded in bringing it to a much higher level as far as rigidity and roadholding are concerned. A sneak drive with a prototype 500 Abarth revealed that it will be as much fun to drive as a Mini Cooper – and it might even be better.
I was also impressed with the new Mercedes C-class, which has a driveability that is on a level never reached before by a large volume car from this manufacturer. It drives very well with every engine Mercedes offers, and the chassis has no problems with the very powerful C63 V8 from AMG. The combination of this engine and chassis transforms the C-class into one of the very best sport sedans in the business. On a track the BMW 3-Series is slightly better, but the Mercedes beats the BMW when you are looking for the best everyday compromise between sportiness and comfort.
Kia made a very good impression with the C’eed, this Korean brand is learning very, very quickly. The C’eed is a car that is able to compete with the Toyota Auris, one of the best compacts in the business. I really was amazed by the progress that Kia is making. The cars are fine, the only thing that is missing is an attractive brand image.
I was almost equally impressed with the Mazda2. It shows that a small car can have all the driving qualities of a bigger vehicle. Excellent roadholding, clever packaging, and a 1.4 engine that performs impressively: it was even better that the 1.4’s I experienced in the Peugeot 308 and Fiat 500.
Of the points left I gave two to the Ford Mondeo, because it is on equal level with the Passat now and offers excellent value for money. I also gave two points to the Nissan Qashqai because it is a fine car to drive and a much better effort to offer something different in its class than – for example – a Volkswagen Cross Golf.
I gave one point to the Peugeot 308 because it is a good car, but nothing special. In my opinion Peugeot has lost it’s touch. The identity of the Peugeots of the present mainly comes from the styling – which I do not like. Unfortunately Peugeots do not stand out from the crowd anymore because of their excellent combination of sportiness and comfort. In the past they offered something special in this respect, but now Peugeots drive just average.
My judgement is based on following grounds:
Fiat 500
It is such an automobile that proves small cars can also be comfortable and safe. I believe, 50s cult automobile Cinquecento will carry its legend to the future with its new outlook. I liked its modern and cute design concept very much which maintains old 500’s design DNA while linking with the modern lines of today. One of the most important aspect is the car can be personalized. Because now the consumers choose cars that reflects their personality not the cars that look like one another. Fiat 500 with different combinations can shape up to five hundred fourtynine thousand versions. Fiat 500 turned out as the first five star automobile in the mini segment at the EuroNCAP which in return has affected the points that I gave. It staggeringly defied its bigger competitors in the first test that we had made in Denmark. Despite its small dimensions it displayed how safe it is. All these in my eyes make Fiat 500 COTY.
Mazda2
Mazda2 got my second highest points. Today, going ‘green’ is on the agenda of all brands. However, the new technologies and the automobiles working with alternative fuels developed in order to decrease the CO2 ratios have high costs. Mazda via its ‘2’ model has pointed out with a cheaper and simple method that something could be done for environmental issues. With its lightweight strategy it has been successful in decreasing the CO2 emission as well as weight of the car though the number of accessories increased. Mazda2 also in the concept of segmentation originates to its own. In each new generation vehicle dimension get bigger. However, Mazda2 exactly as it should be has been produced in the real dimesions of B segment.
Peugeot 308
When I first saw 308 it has disappointed me but later on all my opinions changed. Allthough 308 is carrying the DNA of ‘COTY titled’ 307, it has been a totally different car created from beginning. Most striking feature is the increase in its material and workmanship quality. Also newly developed engines and the 5 star gained in EuroNCAP tests are the biggest advancements of 308.
Ford Mondeo
The powerful design that Mondeo has is remarkable. So that the car seems as it belongs to a higher segment. Safety options which are presented in most of the cars as optional being available in Mondeo is one of its greatest distinction. The material and workmanship quality is quite successful.
Kia Cee’d
Cee’d which is developed for the European market by the brand that is going under great transformation in last years, completely turned out to be a European automobile. Its design, engine performance and the quality feeling it gives to the driver is successful. Unfortunately it is not enough to be the COTY.
My judgement is based on following grounds:
Opel (Vauxhall) Ampera/Chevrolet Volt
Really an electric vehicle or „just“ a plug-in hybrid? Whatever: At present the Ampera/Volt represents the best way how electric mobility can work in daily life. The combination of an electric motor with a combustion engine as a life assurance for long distances creates suitability as a complete car for all of a motorist’s demands. The same do the comfortable ride and space for four passengers. Even under winterly conditions the Ampera didn’t disappoint and provided electric driving range enough to get from suburb to city and back. Yes, there are deficiencies like the complicated HMI, the humming petrol engine and the high price. And yes, competitors are about to follow. But still the Ampera acts uniquely in its field – it’s my „Car of the Year“.
Volkswagen up!
VW has not reinvented the small car but lifted it on a new, commendable standard. In the light of its shortness the up! offers convincing roominess. The build quality is VW-like, the steering precise, the handling ensures safety as well as comfort. Moreover, the up! scores due to its complete range of safety features (optional City Emergency Brake) and the perspective of derivatives such as an electric version. Weaker points: the not up to date consumption in practice and the price tag.
Ford Focus
Excellent, agile chassis, great handling! A broad variety of body styles. Extraordinary in this class: the multitude of available electronic assistance systems. Although the portfolio of engines is already pretty much diversified most interesting alternatives are yet to come in 2012: the economic three cylinder Ecoboost or the „Electric“. Less applause for the circumstancial operation, the impaired sense of interior space – and for the Focus not really being a bargain.
Citroën DS5
Another Citroën designed beyond mainstream. Praise for the technical innovation of a diesel hybrid drive and its ingenious side effect of all wheel drive – although the electric mode wasn’t willing to work at hot outside temperature and the milage didn’t show too much an advantage compared to a usual diesel.
Fiat Panda
Fiat has managed to renew the Panda by keeping its recognition value and likeable personality. Assets are the value for money, the economic two cylinder engines, the fresh interieur and the option of a City Emergency Brake. Frankly, I like this car, but just four stars in the EuroNCAP cost a better position.
Range Rover Evoque
A remarkably new, exciting interpretation of an SUV. Classy build quality, technical talent to cope well with off road terrain, on the road fun to drive. But also: No merits in terms of consumption, some flaws in practicality. And a price that causes pain…
Toyota Yaris
A nice, roomy small car, safe to drive, decent engines. But where’s the innovation? The Yaris meets good average standard – not enough for a „Car of the Year“. One point, though, for the outlook on the upcoming hybrid model.
My judgement is based on following grounds:
Mazda 2
The new Mazda2 marks an important change of tendency: the return of lightweight construction. The diet was good for the car, as it appears without showy elements but with clearly more style, and it is more agile while saving fuel at the same time.
Fiat 500
The Cinquecento is a major hit for Fiat. Bonus points for the 500 with its endearing design, perfect marketing and high safety standard. Cult factor and sales success are guaranteed.
Ford Mondeo
With the new Mondeo Ford proceeds to the top flight of medium-sized cars. That comes as no surprise as it is based on the same technical package as the S-Max “Car of the Year 2007”.
Nissan Qashqai
The Nissan Qashqai profits from the SUV boom but avoids the class’s disadvantages – thus making it charismatic and something special in the league of compact cars.
Kia Cee’d
The Kia Cee’d appears very European and stable – and it comes at a very attractive cost/performance ratio.
My judgement is based on following grounds:
Fiat 500
There is a lot of noisy about “500” made by Fiat, but it is real nice car. Pretty looking and fun to drive with perfect performance, and stability on the road. Good handling, acceleration and informative brakes, and very correct job by ESP. One of the best in segment in EuroNCAP crash properties, and lowest result with CO2 (not just around the finalist). There are some problems – is not enough place for luggage ( this problem come from classic design with 50th years old “500” spirit, station wagon “Giardiniera” going to be soon), and a little bit noisy with 1.4 petrol engine(it looks like part of Italian temperament). There are nearly 3.5 billion of people living in city today, and Fiat 500 good offer against traffic jam, parking and CO2 problems. Warranty 500 thousand km.- the answer for question about quality, and price – the best choice for people who is ready to pay for city car with Mini spirit. What else? Fiat 500 made by people with love, it’s answer why so many positive emotions there are inside car – they’re making you feel better and life longer.
Peugeot 308
Great job! Fantastic interior with quality and beautiful looking materials. Especially with panoramic roof, and a little bit looks like 207 exterior with dynamic lines, and too big smile. Germany blood inside French car with BMW heart, and -pleasure to drive- spirit make Peugeot better, especially with 150 THP engine. Roomy for passengers and for luggage place (348 ltr), lowest CO2 (125-167gr\km) and high level for safety (5 stars and 3 for pedestrian protection rating). Very comfortable on the road, excellent throttle -steering -brakes combination, but information by suspension is not enough on high speed, and gear change shift (manual) has to be improved. Five points going to be enough.
Mercedes C-class
New C-class it’s another step ahead made by Daimler. Thanks for big engine’s range, 4-matic transmission and safety solutions. Good performance, with powerfully and lower fuel consumption engines (220cdi one of the best). There are no problems on the road, and with handling, brakes, and grip on the corners. Is not so noisy inside, and comfortable to drive, when we are speaking about driving emotions. But a little bit disappointing, when we look at the interior and taught the materials. It’s seems cold, and unusual for MB. Exterior is amazing, no questions, but during our life with car we spend a lot of time inside, with emotions made by interior.
Nissan Qashqai
One of the interesting segments for Russian market, especially for city traffic. Modest looking Nissan Qashqai – compact SUV with enough place inside including luggage space. Ground clearance makes comfortable drive in winter time and four wheel drive options try to support you for easy off-road ambitions. There are some problems with electric power-steering assist and for engine range is not so big choice – just 1.6 and 2.0 (we have no diesel version on the Russian market). There is no knee airbag, but 37 points by EuroNCAP crash test – perfect result, like and 3 points around the finalist.
Mazda2
Looks nice with aggressive and rashly lines, and a lot of adrenaline in blood, more close to “zoom-zoom” around cars made by Mazda. But interior…. Hard to tough plastic was very surprising; it’s not according with brand philosophy. Meanwhile, Mazda2 very roomy inside for passengers, including tall people, and it’s another surprise. Luggage capacity a little bit smaller (250-787) if we compare with rivals like Nissan Micra and Opel Corsa, but enough for city life. Very twisty for driving, quick with throttle, excellent handling with lowest fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. Impressive with 1.5 engines and manual gearbox, but sometimes you need 6th gear, there are just 5 there. Combination with automatic transmission, going to be more comfortable for drive.
Ford Mondeo
New Mondeo grows up from D segment and became nearly premium class car. Kinetic design looks perfect, driving ambition very strong and get driver closely to Bond image. But when you select leather seats you immediately lost this connection, they will not fix your body in the corners. Interior with the same kinetic spirit, but assembly of this one has to be better. Fantastic steering, gearchange and brakes. Best choice sedan (good for image) and wagon (for some family service), next one hatchback, but with lowest body rigidity and poor rear view. Good news, Mondeo is going to be produced in Russia and has a chance to be bestseller in segment.
Kia Cee’d
First time ever South Korean brand around the finalist, big success! Thanks for Peter Schreyer team, Cee’d looks more up-to- date, than Kia made before in this segment. Warranty – 7 years ( in Russia-5 years) , EuroNCAP – 34 points (no knee airbag) and lower CO2 emissions. Interior is not so impressive like exterior, looks simple with soft and hard plastic combination. Hatchback, especially in a three-door-version, looks sporty, but for drive more close to family car. Multi – link rear suspension makes Cee’d stable on the road but in the corner coil springs and shock absorbers too soft. Steering is quick, with strong reactive power and is not so informative like it wants to be. Dynamic performance is good the same with brakes, but engines too noisy, especially after 3000 revs (2.0). There are some troubles with ESP, this system works hard and very uncomfortable. One of the best offer on the market today (including Russia (produced by “Avtotor”) like value-for-money car.
My judgement is based on following grounds:
After numerous tests, analyses and considerations, on the leading places of my classification I put such cars as: Fiat 500, Ford Mondeo and Mazda2 as well as Kia cee’d. In my opinion, any of those cars could freely be called the Car of the Year 2008, since every one of them is extremely attractive in its segment (A, B, C, D).
The greatest number of points I gave to Fiat 500, because not only is it an excellent urban car of sport nature, but it also represents a very strong symbol of European automotive industry. Designers of Fiat should be given distinction for excellent metamorphosis of the old shape, and the plant in Tychy deserves great applause for high quality of the product, which could also be seen earlier in Panda. My ratings also resulted from universality of the project which enabled creating the whole family of attractive vehicles in various categories.
It does not change the fact that the second car on my list – Ford Mondeo – from technical point of view is absolutely the best car in this year’s competitions, the best in segment D in general, and what is probably, the most important – taking into account the price of the product and its factual value – one of the best vehicles on the world.
I put Mazda2 on the second place ex aequo. The makers of it, who fight with excess weight, go in the right direction. As far as design is concerned, I appreciate that it does not converge with European producers, but it prefers its own Japanese style.
Kia cee’d was put on the next place. Koreans proved that they could design and manufacture the most accurate car of segment C as well as by offering 7-year-long guarantee they proved to be sure about high of their choice.
The fifth on my list, Nissan Qashqai, surprised me positively by its road behaviour. It turned out to be possible to design a universal car, which would work out well in town, on the road and in offroad. Qashqai is an accurate-size-crossover for Europe.
On the last positions I placed Mercedes C and Peugeot 308, which would definitely please their purchasers.
My judgement is based on following grounds:
Mazda 2
This is the lightweight champion of the year. We all have been long waiting for a modern car with less weight and more fun to drive and a bold, aggressive styling, great interior space and not to forget with competitive prices.
Mercedes-Benz C-Class
Top of the range car in its segment, nobody really needs more, high handling qualities, superb ride comfort, good selection of engines, highest standard of passive safety and all combined with the most dynamic design of Mercedes-Benz. All disturbed only by high prices.
Nissan Qashqai
The best crossover for people who want to drive a car outside the mainstream, but asking for all the qualities of all-day use.
Kia Ceed
So far the best car from Korea, good engines with driving pleasure, elegant styling, the interior is roomy and the car comes with competitive prices.
Fiat 500
If you are old enough, it is easy to be excited about the styling of this high emotional car. For younger people it is only nostalgia.
My judgement is based on following grounds:
Opel Ampera/Chevrolet Volt
Given cheap and clean electricity production, the Ampera/Volt seems to be the best solution to cope with environmental issues and high fuel prices, while remaining completely versatile. And it is very convincing on the road. But you have to be able to plug it at home, and if possible à at work, and initial price remains quite high.
Toyota Yaris
Since hybrid advantages are highest in city driving, the subcompact Yaris hybrid makes a lot of sense. Fuel efficient, easy to drive, and cleaner than all its diesel/petrol competitors, it may be the best urban car of its time. The other power trains of the range are definitly not as interesting.
Ford Focus
The Focus is an all-around competent compact car. Fun to drive, comfortable, and yet very fuel efficient when powered by its 1.0 three cylinder Ecoboost engine.
Citroen DS5
Controversially styled, technically appealing, the DS5 is a very interesting car. Its diesel hybrid power train is quite fuel efficient, yet it lacks some refinement. And its comfort is not up to what you could expect from a Citroen.
VW UP!
Nicely designed well constructed city car, the UP! is also fun to drive. I just wish it would be lighter and more versatile.
Fiat Panda
A practical and well designed city car, the Panda can be fitted with the highly downsized TwinAir engine. Quite powerful and fun to drive, this engine can show some disturbing vibrations when driven at low rpm which is a must to save fuel.
Range Rover Evoque
Despite its stunning design and refined driving dynamics, the Evoque is just another compact SUV. It doesn’t address any of the challenges motor industry would have to face in the future.