Here in Canada, the automotive media world is largely governed by the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada. This long standing organization holds an annual TestFest, where members drive and rate dozens of new vehicles each Fall. There are twelve categories, aimed at helping new car buyers make deciding on a new vehicle a bit easier. At the annual Toronto International Autoshow in February, one overall winner is crowned the AJAC Car of the Year.

Category winners after the break

BEST NEW SMALL CAR: Saturn Astra

BEST NEW FAMILY CAR: Honda Accord EX Sedan
BEST NEW LUXURY CAR: Mercedes-Benz C Class
BEST NEW PRESTIGE CAR (over $75,000): Audi R8
BEST NEW SPORTS/PERFORMANCE CAR under $50,000: MINI Cooper S
BEST NEW SPORTS/PERFORMANCE CAR over $50,000: Audi S5
BEST NEW CONVERTIBLE: BMW 335i Cabriolet
BEST NEW MINIVAN: Hyundai Entourage
BEST NEW PICKUP TRUCK: Chevrolet Silverado
BEST NEW SUV/CUV under $35,000: Nissan Rogue
BEST NEW SUV/CUV $35,000 - $60,000: Saturn Vue
BEST NEW SUV/CUV over $60,000: Buick Enclave

Perhaps the most heart felt award is the relatively new Most Coveted Vehicle award. This award goes to the vehicle that most stirred the emotions of the testers.

This years winner? Hands down it was the Audi R8