Getting ready for the Best New Cars of 2008
As more and more 2008 models become available to the press, I'm in a mad rush to drive as many of the all-new models as I can for our Best New Cars of 2008 list -- the ten best (at least, in my humble and somewhat warped opinion) all-new or significantly redesigned cars for the 2008 model year. I've test driven several new '08 models already. Among those that really stand out:
- 2008 Audi TT Roadster
- 2008 Scion xB
- 2008 Ford Focus (no, really, I'm serious)
- 2008 Honda Accord (yes, I hated the controls, but I love the way it drives)
- Nissan Altima coupe (review coming soon)
Of course, I have lots more cars to drive. Among those I'll be reviewing in the next couple of months: BMW 5-series, Chevrolet Malibu, Audi S5 and R8, Saturn Astra, Dodge Caliber SRT-4, Infiniti G37 coupe, Subaru Impreza WRX and Legacy 3.0R, Volkswagen R32, and a host of others. The list of the Best New Cars of 2008 will be announced right around the new year. Got opinions on which cars should (or should not) make the cut? Click the "comments" link below. Want to waste a few more minutes before getting back to that impossibly huge pile of work on your desk? Then check out last year's list. -- Aaron Gold
Photo © Aaron Gold
That’s cool! You hear? the honda civic Si is coming to Canada! I read it on honda.ca
If that’s the case, it may have to get honorary mention. The Civic Si is one of my favorites.
Review: http://cars.about.com/od/honda/fr/07_civic_si.htm
Aaron
Aaron,
Save a spot for the BMW 135 (I heard it will be released in spring 08, although I am pretty sure you will be able to get your hands on it before me.)… I have a good feeling that it may end up on the list.
P.S. I would also like to nominate the Civic SI as well. I drove it and enjoyed the heck out of it, although it would be nice if it had some more punch, and an automatic trans as an option (I already have a bunch of stick cars, but need ONE fun automatic every-day car).
just my $0.02
Andy
The Civic Si is a very attractive pkg., especially it’s interior. My only gripe with it AND the S2000 is the lack of torque, which means you either ride around with a non stop buzzy engine in lower gear, which I find irritating and fuel innefficient, or wait for it to spool up for the V-Tech to kick in…it’s also the reason you won’t see it with an auto tranny unless they put a supercharger/turbo on it…then you’ll have to get in line…BEHIND ME!!!
I think the CAN put an auto trans in the Civic Si, but choose not to. (they just need to use the Acura TSX & Honda Accord drivetrain – With its 205 horsepower, 2.4-liter DOHC i-VTEC inline-4 engine and an AUTOMATIC transmission)
Aaron,
Looking forward to your reviews of the Audis (S5 and R8), as well at the Infinity G37. Not particularly crazy about the BMW 5 series (even with the changes) – like the older 5 better (from a BMW M3 and 330CI former owner). Looking forward to the BMW 135 (as Andy stated).
Cheers,
Mike
Andy and Mike –
I asked BMW about the timing of the 1-series’ availability to the press. Looks like the 1-series won’t make it in time for our Best of 2008 competition — but with any luck I’ll get a fairly early shot at the cars. And if they are good enough to deserve a place — well, this is the Web, we can always update the list!
Aaron