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Styling (10%)
Exterior: Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, so assessing the exterior design is totally subjective. The journalist will compare overall styling with other models in the segment to see how it stands out. Shape and size, modern appeal and distinctive features are part of the equation.
Interior: From a purely aesthetic point of view and, again, based on his/her personal tastes, the journalist looks at shapes, color schemes, material combination and textures, etc.
Exterior fit and finish: Here, it's a matter of build quality, panel spacing, paint application and finish, precision with regard to plastic fit (bumpers, mouldings) as well as joints and welds.
Interior fit and finish: How are the materials and components matched together? How narrow and even are the gaps between panels? What's the material quality like? Are there any unusual noises?
Accessories (10%)
Convenience and equipment: Based on the vehicle type and market segment, the journalist compares the number and relevance of the various features (onboard computer, navigation, MP3 playback, auxiliary input, etc.). It's also time to ask questions like: are there too few cupholders, seat adjustments, etc.
Instruments and controls: Points of emphasis include readability, functionality, purposefulness, user-friendliness (is it too complicated?) and layout.
Heating/Ventilating/Air conditioning: First, from a design and functionality standpoint, is the HVAC system easy to grasp and user-friendly (number and size of controls, single- or dual-zone settings, etc.)? Then, the level of noise produced by the system at various operating settings needs to be assessed. Finally, it's important to find out how much time it takes to cool/warm the entire cabin and if every area (front/rear, left/right) is effectively controlled.
Overall ergonomics: From a user standpoint, ergonomics are a matter of positioning, access, comfort and safety (how long do you have to turn your eyes away from the road to manipulate certain controls?). Of course, it can also apply to the rear-seat environment.
Sound system: The main focus here is sound quality (always keep in mind the type of vehicle). Also, is it easy to use and read? What about extra features (subwoofer, CD changer, hard drive, etc.)?
Space and Access (10%)
Front space and access: The journalist will assess how easy it is to get to the front seats by taking into account the opening of the doors, the height of the seat cushions and the position of the steering wheel, for instance. Room for the head, legs and shoulders is another part of the equation.
Rear space and access: Same thing here (keeping in mind the exact number of seats the automaker wanted to offer).
Cargo space and access: Cargo space typically refers to the trunk and/or any other part of the cabin that's intended for cargo transportation. Every dimension is factored in, particularly height. The journalist will also consider the size of the opening and the height of the threshold for loading items
Storage capacity: This refers exclusively to storage inside the passenger area (trays, compartments, bins, pockets, glove box, etc.), including compartments hidden inside the center console or under the floor.
Access to mechanical components: When you lift the hood, are the main components easy to reach, not only for major repair work but also for routine checks? Where's the oil gauge? How do you fill up the various fluid tanks?
Styling (10%)
Exterior: Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, so assessing the exterior design is totally subjective. The journalist will compare overall styling with other models in the segment to see how it stands out. Shape and size, modern appeal and distinctive features are part of the equation.
Interior: From a purely aesthetic point of view and, again, based on his/her personal tastes, the journalist looks at shapes, color schemes, material combination and textures, etc.
Exterior fit and finish: Here, it's a matter of build quality, panel spacing, paint application and finish, precision with regard to plastic fit (bumpers, mouldings) as well as joints and welds.
Interior fit and finish: How are the materials and components matched together? How narrow and even are the gaps between panels? What's the material quality like? Are there any unusual noises?
Accessories (10%)
Convenience and equipment: Based on the vehicle type and market segment, the journalist compares the number and relevance of the various features (onboard computer, navigation, MP3 playback, auxiliary input, etc.). It's also time to ask questions like: are there too few cupholders, seat adjustments, etc.
Instruments and controls: Points of emphasis include readability, functionality, purposefulness, user-friendliness (is it too complicated?) and layout.
Heating/Ventilating/Air conditioning: First, from a design and functionality standpoint, is the HVAC system easy to grasp and user-friendly (number and size of controls, single- or dual-zone settings, etc.)? Then, the level of noise produced by the system at various operating settings needs to be assessed. Finally, it's important to find out how much time it takes to cool/warm the entire cabin and if every area (front/rear, left/right) is effectively controlled.
Overall ergonomics: From a user standpoint, ergonomics are a matter of positioning, access, comfort and safety (how long do you have to turn your eyes away from the road to manipulate certain controls?). Of course, it can also apply to the rear-seat environment.
Sound system: The main focus here is sound quality (always keep in mind the type of vehicle). Also, is it easy to use and read? What about extra features (subwoofer, CD changer, hard drive, etc.)?
Space and Access (10%)
Front space and access: The journalist will assess how easy it is to get to the front seats by taking into account the opening of the doors, the height of the seat cushions and the position of the steering wheel, for instance. Room for the head, legs and shoulders is another part of the equation.
Rear space and access: Same thing here (keeping in mind the exact number of seats the automaker wanted to offer).
Cargo space and access: Cargo space typically refers to the trunk and/or any other part of the cabin that's intended for cargo transportation. Every dimension is factored in, particularly height. The journalist will also consider the size of the opening and the height of the threshold for loading items
Storage capacity: This refers exclusively to storage inside the passenger area (trays, compartments, bins, pockets, glove box, etc.), including compartments hidden inside the center console or under the floor.
Access to mechanical components: When you lift the hood, are the main components easy to reach, not only for major repair work but also for routine checks? Where's the oil gauge? How do you fill up the various fluid tanks?