Ward’s Interior of the Year�Awards

Upholstery Journal | August 2008

by Jake Kulju

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New auto interior trends

Economy-Priced Car ($16,999 and under)

Suzuki SX4 Sport

The editors praised the dashboard as clean, simple alternative to button-happy center stacks. The faux metallic trim surrounding the audio and climate controls, and the leather-wrapped steering wheel sealed the deal. They concluded the SX4 proves that an inexpensive car doesn’t have to be a cheap one.

Finalists: Chevrolet Aveo, Ford Focus, Scion xD

Popular-Priced Car ($17,000–$29,999)

Chevrolet Malibu

The remodeled Chevy Malibu was awarded for its dramatically different, modern and appealing interior. The editors said the harmonious design creates an upscale aura that demonstrates the successful execution of a singular design strategy by a team with a united vision. The editors’ general consensus was that the Malibu is a great value.

Finalists: Honda Accord, Hyundai Sonata, Nissan Altima coupe, Saturn Astra, Scion xB, Toyota Corolla

Premium-Priced Car ($30,000 and over)

Jaguar XF

The Jaguar XF interior has redefined luxury, creating a fantasy that sells the car like few other vehicles tested this year. The XF’s interior exudes luxury and personality. Push the pulsating start button and it literally comes alive. The air vent doors open in unison, and the unique circular gearshift dial emerges from a recess in the center console. It makes you feel special from the moment you sit down.

Finalists: Acura TSX, Audi A5 3.2L S-Line, Cadillac CTS, Mercedes C300, Volvo C30

Sports Car ($30,000 and over)

Audi TT coupe

The Audi TT garnered praise from the Ward’s staff for its soft, high-quality materials and precise switchgear, as well as its contemporary design. Judges were impressed with the car’s premium feel, sporty seats and an instrument panel with white-on-black gauges and brushed-metallic accents.

Finalists: BMW 135i, Mitsubishi Lancer Evo GSR, Pontiac G8, Subaru WRX STI

Popular-Priced Truck ($34,999 and under)

Mazda5

Ward’s editors were effusive with praise for the affordable 6-passenger Mazda5 CUV, which could redefine trucks for a new generation of consumers. It offers all the convenience of a car, truck and minivan.

Finalists: Dodge Journey, Ford Escape, Nissan Murano, Saturn Vue, Subaru Forester, Toyota Highlander

Premium-Priced Truck ($35,000 and over)

Chrysler Town & Country

The judges cited a feature-laden interior with elegant, discreet ambient lighting, richly upholstered seats and Chrysler’s exclusive MyGIG infotainment system as reasons it outscored formidable nominees. The judges were impressed with Swivel ’n Go seating that allows second-row passengers to face rearward safely and comfortably, an advancement that “portends true sociopolitical advancement.”

Finalists: Buick Enclave, Infiniti EX35, Lexus LX570, Mazda CX-9, Subaru Tribeca, VW Touareg 2 V-8