The judges have voted and the tallies are in at the 2013 Atlanta International Auto Show. Five manufacturers took home awards in the “Best New” categories for best new vehicle, best green vehicle, best new truck/SUV, best crossover, and best in show.
Judges from the Greater Atlanta Automotive Media Association combed the show floor to find vehicles that had advancements in styling, fuel economy, features and functionality, improvements over the previous model, and overall value compared to other vehicles in class.
And the winners are…
Best New Vehicle: 2014 Mazda 6
From the judges – “It offers the characteristics drivers want – comfort, safety, a stylish and eye-catching design and outstanding fuel efficiency – all while maintaining a surprisingly affordable price. [We] expect the 2013 Mazda6 to be a strong player in the tough mid-size sedan segment and a big hit for Mazda.”
Best Green Vehicle: 2013 Toyota Avalon Hybrid
From the judges – “[We] selected the first-ever hybrid Avalon because it delivers 40-mpg fuel economy without sacrificing on space and comfort. With a growing number of hybrid models on the market, green vehicles have moved beyond lightweight compacts. Toyota is a clear leader in hybrid technology, and the 2013 Avalon Hybrid showcases it in the brand’s flagship sedan.”
Best New Truck/SUV: 2014 Chevrolet Silverado
From the judges – “As the economy improves, drivers are once again looking for pickups suited to both work and play. The Silverado delivers. Improved fuel efficiency comes courtesy of three new engine choices and a host of improvements like better aerodynamics. Offered with the latest connectivity and driver assistance technologies, the more capable and efficient Silverado is an ideal partner on the jobsite and over the weekend. “
Best new Crossover: 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe
The judges were impressed with the new Santa Fe’s wide range of uses and options. Available in two forms, the Santa Fe can be ordered as a seven-seat, full-size crossover with three rows or as a five-seater with more aggressive styling in the Santa Fe Sport. They also liked Hyundai’s Blue Link infotainment system and the 10-year/100,000-mile warranty.
Best in Show: 2013 Lincoln MKZ and MKZ Hybrid
From the judges – “The 2013 Lincoln MKZ is visually stunning, technologically advanced, luxurious yet accessible and powerful yet economical. Lincoln offers three powertrain choices, including a 45-mpg hybrid that’s priced identically to the base turbocharged 4-cylinder. Technologies include the standard SYNC infotainment system with MyLincoln Touch, standard active suspension and camera- and radar-based driver assistance systems like adaptive cruise control and parking assistance. In short, the all-new MKZ advances our expectations of what a mid-size luxury sedan should be, and it sets a high benchmark for the competition in its segment.”
Hat Tip To: GAAMA – Greater Atlanta Automotive Media Association
