subject: A Look At Japans 10 Best Cars 2012-2013 [print this page] Its always good to look back and see the year that was. In the motoring industry, Japans 10 best cars have been chosen from among 30 nominees determined by Motor Trader. Now on its 33rd year, the Japan Car of the Year Award showcased sixteen models by foreign manufacturers and seven are from Toyota; two of their hybrids are on the Top 30 list. Motoring journalists made up the judging panel.
To be nominated for the award, a vehicle must have sold at least 500 units in a year and the model must have been launched or announced by the 31st of October 2012. Buyers must have received the vehicles during December 2012. In addition to the prestigious Japan Car of the Year Award, the judging panel also chose a model to receive a Special Award for being the most noteworthy newcomer among all the nominees. So what are the vehicles that made it to the Top Ten?
The Giuletta features the Alfa TCT, the brands own 6-gear twin clutch transmission. The TCT is composed of two transmissions in parallel which allow for smooth, jerk-free gear changing by engaging the next gear while the previous one is still engaged.
Volkswagen up!
One of the smallest among the nominees, the up! is only 3.54 meters long, 1.49 meters high, and 1.64 meters wide. It is best for city driving and it fits in the tightest of parking spots. Its average fuel consumption is 4.1 liters, emitting only 95 grams of carbon dioxide.
Toyota 86/Subaru BRZ
Toyota and Subaru joined forces with this one, and it is also considered as the same model; the name differs per country. The model has already won Carsguides Car of the Year award and for good reason: its a good quality sports car thats enjoyable to drive but with an affordable price tag.
Nissan Note
A mini MPV that can fit the whole family and the dog, the Note doesnt feel mini at all. It is practical, drives fairly decently, and is well-built. Steady handling and a fuel-efficient engine make the Note a good all-around family car.
Honda N-Box
The size of the N-Box may be puny compared to othersit is a kei car after allbut it does pack a lot of punch. Four people can sit comfortably in the little box even on long drives, and the vehicle can get up to 52mpg. Small and practical, it is a beauty to look at too.
Citroen DS5
The models DS5 Hybrid4 variant is known as the worlds first mass-produces diesel-electric hybrid car. With its luxurious look, youll never know it can get 74mpg while emitting below 100gs worth of carbon dioxide. Fuel efficiency and a care for the environment put it solidly in the list of Japans 10 Best Cars.
Mazda CX-5
This compact SUV wowed the market so much, Mazda has been struggling to keep up with orders. It is practical, reliable, and easy to drive. The vehicles combined highway-city fuel economy is rated at 29 mpg.
BMW 3-Series
Driving in luxury has been BMWs selling point, and it hasnt changed in the three decades of production of the 3-Series. It remains a reliable, high-tech car with quality performance and superior handling.
Suzuki Wagon R
Japans best-selling kei car is now on its fifty-generation release and continues to impress with a new mild-hybrid system that provides regenerative braking and an energy-saving electric air conditioning system.
Range Rover Evoque
Biofuel compatibility? Check. Lightweight construction materials? Check. Regenerative brakes? Check. Parallel hybrid powertrain? Check. These features and more make the Evoque compact SUV an environmentally conscious vehicle deserving of a spot as one of Japans 10 Best Cars.
