The March issue of CAR has just hit the stands, and in it CAR reveals the Top 12 for 2007, which recognises the best buys in twelve segments of the new vehicle market.

Ever since the introduction of Top 12 (initially as the Top 10 in 2000), it has grown in every aspect - from its presentation to its influence in the marketplace. From being essentially an opinion piece in the magazine, a Top 12 award has become a highly-coveted accolade.

Last year, CAR teamed up with Nedbank Vehicle and Asset Finance, taking another crucial step in the growth of the concept and facilitating the initiation of a gala awards ceremony that turned Top 12 into special occasion for the industry on the evening of February 9.The Top 12 Best Buys for 2007 reveal coincided with CAR’s 50th birthday party at the North Gate Dome in Johannesburg.

In a multimedia extravaganza, complete with dramatic unveilings, live musical and dancing performances and commentary by representatives of the respective winning manufacturers, CAR publisher Stuart Lowe announced the 2007 automotive honours list:

   • Best budget car - Chevrolet Spark 1,0 LS
   • Best light car – Honda Jazz
   • Best compact car – Audi A3/Sportback
   • Best compact executive – Audi A4
   • Best executive saloon – Lexus GS300
   • Best grand saloon – Mercedes-Benz S-Class
   • Best sports/performance car – Porsche 911
   • Best compact MPV/SW – Toyota Avanza
   • Best MPV/SW – Volkswagen T5
   • Best compact SUV – Subaru Forester
   • Best SUV – Toyota Fortuner
   • Best double-cab/pick-up – Toyota Hilux

“This year, again in partnership with Nedbank, CAR has been able to go bigger, with a more dramatic presentation that brings the awards to life – beyond the pages of CAR magazine,” Lowe said.

“Where to from here? Well, let’s just say that it is CAR’s firm intention to make a Top 12 award the ultimate recognition that can be bestowed on any car in South Africa,” he concluded.

WANT MORE? Get your March 2007 issue of CAR to read why the editors picked the respective winners in each of the Top 12 categories. You will also find extended online coverage of the Top12 in CARtoday.com's interactive module or watch television coverage of the reveal ceremony in CARtorque on SABC3 - Sunday 11 March at 5pm.