Given Volkswagen's less than successful attempt to push up-market with the Phaeton full-size luxury sedan, which
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Mazda's new 5 seats six in comfort while returning impressive performance and thrifty fuel consumption. (Mazda Canada)
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will be cancelled in 2007, a move to extend the Passat's reach to premium status by incorporating unique technologies, large-car size and high-end features to attempt to lure buyers which might otherwise purchase BMW 3-Series or Alfa Romeo 159, might be more achievable,. It has worked, too, at least in the eyes of Europe's COTY judges, having cast their votes in favour of Wolfsburg's latest sedan taking second place.
Third
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| Toyota's Aygo shares overall architecture with two French cars. (Photo: Toyota Canada) |
place went to Alfa Romeo's 159, a very respectable finish for Italy's only contender. Hailed as a front-wheel-drive 3-Series with Italian character and soul, this fine entry-level luxury sedan beat BMW's new 3-Series (E90) in terms of points. It's a strong case for Alfa too, given the brand is set to re-launch in North America sometime during 2007. An honourable mention also must go to Alfa's Brera, a fastback coupe version of the 159 that was voted Design of the Year by the judging panel.
