North American Car, Truck of Year Winners Revealed

Two import brands celebrated big wins on Monday at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, as it was revealed that the 2012 North American Car of the Year award went to the Hyundai Elantra, and taking honors as the North American Truck of the Year is the Range Rover Evoque.

Both of these winners are 2012 model-year vehicles.

To determine the winners, 50 auto journalists consider the crop of eligible vehicles and narrow it down to 10 cars and 10 trucks that they will rate. The 20 vehicles go through the jurors’ points rating system and the ballots are sent to Deloitte & Touche’s office in Detroit.

That firm then whittles the lists down to three car finalists and three truck finailists based on points.  The jury of auto journalists then take their votes for the winners.

On the car side, the Elantra was chosen over the Volkswagen Passat and Ford Focus for its award.

“Elantra speaks to the success of our recipe of bold design and great fuel economy,” said John Krafcik, president and chief executive officer, Hyundai Motor America. “In a year with some truly breakthrough competitors, we are honored that the jury recognizes Elantra’s far-reaching impact on the industry.”

Commenting on Range Rover’s win, Jaguar Land Rover North America president Andy Goss said: “We are honored that the all-new Range Rover Evoque has been named the 2012 North American Truck of the Year, one of the most celebrated automotive awards in our industry.

“This recognition is in keeping with the overwhelmingly positive global response from consumers who are selecting the vehicle for its ideal combination of luxury and capability, within a sustainable package,” Goss continued.