Auto123.com's 2006 Best Picks

This year, team Auto123.com has decided to list its best and favourite picks for the 2006 model year. We made our selections by scoring each new car on a scale of 10. The score breaks down into 4 important criteria. The first is reliability. Mathieu St-Pierre is a long-time contributor to Protegez-Vous' annual car guide and therefore has a very good appreciation of cars and their reliability. Secondly, we look at the car's technology and equipment. In other words, what you get for your money. Thirdly, how practical and comfortable is the car. Finally, how the driver feels behind the wheel.

Here are our choices:


CARS

Sub-Compacts:

1. Toyota Yaris - Great fuel economy, projected above average reliability, fun driving experience
2. Kia Rio / Hyundai Accent - New stiffer chassis, peppy and economical engine, interesting base price
3. smart fortwo - Advanced technology and safety, minimal fuel consumption, original design

Compacts:

1. Honda Civic - Driving experience, guaranteed reliability, complete safety equipment
2. Mazda3 - Great drive, interior fit and finish worthy of a $40,000 car, body style selection
3. Subaru Impreza - Standard AWD, comfortable drive, available wagon
   

Other considerations: Toyota Corolla / Kia Spectra


Midsize:

1. Honda Accord - Reliability is assured, superior assembly quality, frugal and powerful engines
2. Mazda6 - Impressive drive, interior fit and finish, body style selections
3. Hyundai Sonata - Interior volume, refined and smooth powertrains, excellent warranty
   

Other considerations: Subaru Legacy / Volkswagen Passat / Ford Fusion


Full size:

1. Toyota Avalon - Impressive and economical engine, Lexus worthy cabin, certified dependability
2. Chrysler 300, Dodge Magnum, Dodge Charger - Body style selections, choice of engines, performances and driving pleasure
3. Chevrolet Impala - Bang for the buck, many models and engines to choose from, interior volume

Other considerations: Hyundai Azera