2007 Motor Trend Sport/Utility of the Year Award: Testing
THE CRITERIA
Sport/Utility of the Year isn't a comparison test. It's open only to all-new or substantially upgraded vehicles that have gone on sale in the 12 months from November 1 each year.
Each SUOTY contender is evaluated against three simple criteria:
1. Superiority. We look at engineering excellence, advancement in design, utilization of resources, and safety. Vehicle concept and execution are important, as are use or materials, packaging, dynamics, styling, and fuel consumption.
2. Significance. How does the vehicle do the job its maker intended it to do? This includes how it may impact or change its particular market segment, influence consumer perceptions, and transform product-development trends.
3. Value. How does each vehicle compare against its direct rivals? A vehicle with a low sticker price might not be as good a value as a more expensive vehicle that delivers outstanding performance, quality, and functionality.