And the Best Interior Is...

Ward's Automotive has picked its best interiors of 2008--and Chevrolet, Jaguar, Suzuki, Chrysler, Mazda, and Audi will be bringing home trophies.

The "Interior of the Year" awards for this year were chosen from a field of 36 vehicles and 13 manufacturers by the editorial staff over at Ward's. Criteria included materials, ergonomics, design, aesthetics, value, and fit. According to Ward's, the best Economy Car interior is in the Suzuki SX4, which has "attractive faux metallic trim"; it proves an "inexpensive car doesn't have to be a cheap one."

The Chevrolet Malibu wins among Popular-Priced cars for its "upscale aura" and "harmonious design," while the Jaguar XF takes home the prize for Premium-Priced cars; it "exudes luxury and personality as if it were creating it by photosynthesis."

Audi's TT took home top honors for Sports Cars for its "soft, high-quality materials and precise switchgear," while the Mazda5 won out in the Popular-Priced Truck category and the Chrysler Town & Country for Premium-Priced Trucks. A handful of special awards gave kudos to the Volvo C30, Infiniti EX35, Hyundai Sonata, and Dodge Journey.

Are you convinced by some of their choices? Among TheCarConnection.com's editors, the Chrysler Town & Country in particular is a funky choice for its overwhelming plastics, though it has more features than a topographical map. What about the Mazda CX-9 or even Ford's King Ranch F-Series? Tell us which interior you think deserves a win in a comment below. 2008 Chevrolet MalibuEnlarge PhotoWard's Automotive has picked its best interiors of 2008--and Chevrolet, Jaguar, Suzuki, Chrysler, Mazda, and Audi will be bringing home trophies. The "Interior of the Year" awards for this year were chosen from a field of 36 vehicles and 13 manufacturers by the editorial staff over at Ward's. Criteria included materials, ergonomics, design, aesthetics, value, and fit. According to Ward's, the best Economy Car interior is in the Suzuki SX4, which has "attractive faux metallic trim"; it proves an "inexpensive car doesn't have to be a cheap one." The Chevrolet Malibu wins among Popular-Priced cars for its "upscale aura" and "harmonious design," while the Jaguar XF takes home the prize for Premium-Priced cars; it "exudes luxury and personality as if it were creating it by photosynthesis." Audi's TT took home top honors for Sports Cars for its "soft, high-quality materials and precise switchgear," while the Mazda5 won out in the Popular-Priced Truck category and the Chrysler Town & Country for Premium-Priced Trucks. A handful of special awards gave kudos to the Volvo C30, Infiniti EX35, Hyundai Sonata, and Dodge Journey. Are you convinced by some of their choices? Among TheCarConnection.com's editors, the Chrysler Town & Country in particular is a funky choice for its overwhelming plastics, though it has more features than a topographical map. What about the Mazda CX-9 or even Ford's King Ranch F-Series? Tell us which interior you think deserves a win in a comment below.