Sabah Gazatesi
Ufuk Sandik (Turkey)
My judgement is based on following grounds:
Volkswagen Golf
I have always criticized the design of the Golf. As the competitors in this segment have renewed themselves with radical designs, I have blamed Volkswagen for being too conservative. But I believe that the Volkswagen engineers have done it right with the sixth generation Golf. They have developed an ideal car for every one without doing major changes in the design and keeping the traditional design line.
Although the sizes of the Golf have not changed, small changes in the design make the car look longer and wider. Yes the design is not exciting. But it fulfils expectations in all aspects a driver would expect from a car. The fact that 75% of the current Golf owners are ex-Golf owners shows that the Volkwagen engineers are on the right track. Golf became the ideal car for drivers not seeking for adventure. That’s why it deserves the highest score.
Ford Fiesta
In times when there is a world wide economic crisis and cheap as well as low consumption cars step forward, the star of Ford Fiesta is shinning. The Fiesta with a lower weight compared to the previos version and equipped with an electrical hydraulic steering wheel not only offers lower consumption but also is environmental with its low CO2 emission. On the other hand although the new Fiesta has gone on a diet, the increase in safety equipment calls attention. The Fiesta with a sportive and elegant appearance has been completely renewed and reached a design that is able to create an emotional bond with its driver no Ford car has even done. Except for a few minor ergonomic problems in the interior, there is no major problem in the car. If the Fiesta would compete in a final where the Golf is not in it would have gotten the highest score from me.
Renault Mégane
Renault Megane who has previously registered its name as the Car of the Year, has either a design which is loved or hated. In the renewed Megane design the radical line is abandoned. The new Megane has a design likeable and approvable by every one. Unfortunately it is not possible to say the same thing for the interior of the Megane which has a more sportive line. Actually the outside appearance and the interior of the car make an impression of two cars. Megane, offering a wide inner space and safety in driving, seems like having nothing else to offer.
Opel Insignia
We have to give its due. Opel has created the Insignia which replaced the Vectra from scratch. Insignia with a dynamic design became one of the most exciting and sportive models in its class. In addition as well became the most advanced model in its class in regard to active, passive security, driving comfort and engine technology. In fact some new technologies used in the Insignia don’t even exist in models in one upper class. On the other hand how well are these technologies known and how frequently are they used by the drivers? This situation has always been a question mark to me. Some design faults obstructing the driver’s front and rear view caused me to reduce their score.
Citroën C5
In the recent years the Citroen brand started to become identical with technology. I think Citroen engineers must have thought that design is also important for a car as the C5 arose. The previously cold and bulky appearance of the C5 is replaced by an elegant and modern line. The C5, looking like a car from an upper segment has all the technological specifications we are used to. I liked the suspension which prevents shakes and bumps on distorted roads and gives the passengers a highway comfort, very much. This feature gives a major advantage to drivers in my country where you come across with many distorted roads.
Alfa Romeo MiTo
The MiTo which is Alfa!s first experience in small class draws attentions like all the Alfas. It is an exciting car awaking the desire to own it. It attracts every one’s attention in traffic and gathers all the looks. You cannot be uncomfortable with this interest. On the other hand there is also discomfort. I was disappointed to see assembly problems I haven’t come across for a long time. All in all MiTo, giving joy as a cute toy while driving, is a car which would cause couples to fight to drive it. However when we leave the emotions aside and be realistic the car’s appeal is reduced.