2011 Ford Fiesta: In June, 2010 the new subcompact begins rolling into showrooms in sedan and hatchback versions. Starting price: $12,999Ford
The Canadian Automotive Jury has named its choice for 2011 Best of the Best vehicle: the Ford Fiesta.
The jury, made of 10 Canadian auto journalists, includes Globe Drive contributors Jeremy Cato, Michael Vaughan and Petrina Gentile. This is the second year the group has given out its award; the 2010 winner was the Volkswagen Golf.
The group chose 11 new 2011 vehicles as the Best of the Best contenders; to qualify, vehicles must have been on sale in Canadian showrooms by Oct. 1, 2010. The previous year's winner is also included to create a field of 12 vehicles from which the jury members pick a winner.
The jury cited the Fiesta's availability as a sedan or hatchback, excellent fuel economy, "big car" features, and a high "fun to drive quotient that was tough to beat."
The finalists were:
Audi R8
BMW 5-Series
Buick Regal
Cadillac CTS
Ford Fiesta
Hyundai Sonata
Jeep Grand Cherokee
Kia Sportage
Mazda2
Mercedes-Benz E-Class
Volkswagen Jetta
Volkswagen Golf
For more information about the jury and its award, go to thecanadianautomotivejury.ca