
As I’ve done just about every autumn for the past 30 years, I attended the annual International Motor Press Association “Test Days” event this year, and drove a virtual cornucopia of cars. The sometimes wild, wet and windy weather didn’t dampen my enthusiasm as I test-drove 19 cars in two days, with two familial guests as sounding boards.
Ranging from a $23k economy car to a $140k SUV, and including plug-in hybrids and twin-turbo sedans, the selection of vehicles was as wide as a California freeway.
After digesting the sensory overload from all these vehicles, a few key impressions rose to the top. With that, I present the CarKnack IMPA Test Days Awards:
Loudest Luxury: Range Rover SVR
For the well-to-do who don’t mind making a little noise.
Most Understated Performance: Volkswagen Golf R
Can someone please add some color to this impressive car?
0-60 mph in 2.8 seconds. Amen.
Very Nice But Who Will Buy It Award: Buick Regal TourX
Handsome, quiet, commodious. Is anyone paying attention?
Most Smile-Inducing: Ford Mustang GT 5.0 Performance Pkg 2
Who can resist a hot red Mustang?
The Hype Is True Award: Honda Civic Type R
And you can’t see the ugly exterior while driving it.
Fastest Road Hog: Dodge Challenger R/T Wide Body
Loud and fast but it easily takes up 1-1/2 lanes.
Most Communicative: Subaru BRZ tS
Most fun per dollar and fun per mile. Can I take one home?
Photography: Zoran Szigethy
#IMPATestDays