The Mini Cooper S beat the Infiniti G35 and the Nissan 350Z for North American car of the year honours. The Volvo XC90 was named truck of the year.
The Mini Cooper S beat the Infiniti G35 and the Nissan 350Z for North American car of the year honours. The Volvo XC90 was named truck of the year.
The reports that the panel of 49 motoring journalists from the United States and Canada said they chose the Mini Cooper S for its quirky looks, quick handling and driving performance.
“With the Cooper, Mini has put fun into economical, small-car ownership,” said Michelle Krebs, a member of the organising committee for the awards.
“When you look at it, you smile, and that’s the heart of its success,” said Jack Pitney, general manager of the Mini brand in America. “I think people want to have fun.”
The Volvo XC90 beat the Honda Element, Hummer H2 and Nissan Murano. The jury of journalists praised the XC90 for its high-tech, safety features such as night vision and its occupant monitoring system.
“More wagon-like in execution than most SUVs, the XC90 is a people friendly package that offers three rows of seating and advance technology such as night vision,” said Matt DeLorenzo, one of the jurists. “Volvo’s reputation for safety is enhanced by such features as the XC90’s anti-rollover protection (system.).”
The awards are given to new or substantially revised vehicles that will be on the North American market in 2002. Vehicles are judged on design, safety, fuel economy, handling, performance, comfort, quality, functionality, driver satisfaction and price.
