Industry Report: AJAC Announces 2005 Canadian Car of the Year Category Winners

What Would Happen if Last Year's Winners Were Asked Back to Compete Again?

The Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC) announced its 2005 Canadian Car of the Year Award Winners during a

The AJAC program incorporates one of the most sophisticated voting processes in North America. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

press conference at the Holiday Inn Select Airport in Toronto yesterday, Tuesday, December 7, 2004.

In total, twelve vehicles placed at the top of their respective categorical heaps. The AJAC program incorporates one of the most sophisticated voting processes in North America, based on back-to-back, real-world testing on the street and race track.

Putting things into perspective, entries chosen for the Canadian Car

Entries chosen for the Canadian Car of the Year program only include all-new or significantly upgraded models. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

of the Year program only include all-new or significantly upgraded models, chosen through a detailed checks and balances process. This means that last year's winners, despite being worthy contenders in their various categories are no longer eligible for this year's contest.

It's important to note this, as many new car buyers who see an "AJAC Best New" award posted next to a newspaper or magazine ad naturally believe that this vehicle is the best in its segment, which may not necessarily be the case. A three year old car, which would not have been entered in the AJAC contest for the same number of years, could easily still be considered a top contender.