Car & Driver Magazine's Top-10 Cars For 2008

Car & Driver is among the most respected publications in the automotive industry. And each year, the magazine’s highlight issue is its top-10 cars of the year list. With 2009 models fully infiltrating the marketplace and the status of the automotive industry in constant flux, it’s again a good time to note Car & Driver’s selection for 2008.

The magazine has just released its 2008 results,  and the list emphasizes an influx of sedans and sports cars in several price categories.

As the magazine detailed, it judges cars as follows:

“We judge each car in three general areas, the first being how well the vehicle performs its intended functions. We expect sports cars to be fast and exhilarating, whereas we presume a family sedan will be frugal and practical.”

“Second, we show all preference for the more engaging cars in each category, be it athletic driving manners, a seductive look, or a powerful engine sure to induce a grin every time we climb behind the wheel. Finally, we are suckers for a good deal, so an inexpensive car that’s fast, fun, and practical will certainly rise to the top of our list.”

“The invite list works as follows: Last year’s winners are automatically invited back, as well as other all-new or significantly upgraded machinery for 2008. Each car gets only one shot at making our list, but many stay on it for years.

“This year, all cars had to have a base price no higher than $72,000, which is 2.5 times the average new-vehicle transaction price as of August 2007. Eligible cars must be on sale no later than January 2008, and the manufacturer must, of course, deliver an example for our evaluations.”

Here are Car & Driver’s Top-10 cars for 2008:

1. BMW 3 Series; 2. Cadillac CTS; 3. Chevrolet Corvette; 4. Chevrolet Malibu; 5. Honda Accord; 6. Honda Fit; 7. Mazda MX-5; 8 Mazda Speed 3; 9. Porsche Boxster; 10. Volkswagen GTI.