DETROIT — AutoWeek magazine has named the Buick Bengal — the first car designed with a major sports figure in mind, Tiger Woods — 'Best of the Best' Concept Car of the Year among all concepts introduced at various international auto shows this year.
Bengal is a sleekly sculptured roadster that looks like a two-seat convertible — but its looks are deceiving. A small third door behind the drivers' door and a retractable tonneau cover reveal space for two additional passengers or two custom golf bags. Woods' influence is further evident in Bengal's cutting-edge sound system and engine performance. In addition to "wheels forward" architecture, Bengal features a supercharged 250-horsepower 3.4 liter V-6 engine and voice-activated controls.
The Buick Bengal was introduced in January 2001 at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.
AutoWeek's 'Best of the Best' award this year was picked from concept cars introduced at auto shows in Paris, Detroit and Geneva.
Against its competitors, one AutoWeek editor said the Bengal "looks like the most fun of the group to drive." Another said, "In the looks category, it's a stunner."
Dutch Mandel, editor and associate publisher of AutoWeek, said earlier this year in announcing Bengal as the magazine's Best Concept at Detroit, that the Bengal is a winning blend of elegance and functionality. "AutoWeek's editors are extremely impressed with Buick's design direction," he said.