Another year of testing cars and trucks is in the history books, and we've been busy. In the past 12 months, Edmunds' Inside Line has tested more cars and trucks than any other car magazine, more than any other Web site. Since this time last year, hundreds of vehicles — some good, some not so good — have been driven at our test track and evaluated by our staff.
Test that many machines and you're bound to have a few favorites. It's these cars and trucks that we honor with our annual Inside Line Editors' Most Wanted Awards.
Just as the name says, these are the six vehicles that the editors of Inside Line want the most. They're the ones we personally lust after. The ones we desire. Our personal favorites. These are the cars and trucks we like best, like it or not.
The Selection ProcessAnd like last year, our selection process is extremely simple. There's only one real rule: Inside Line must have tested the car or truck by November 1. And there's only one hard category: Instant Classic. The other five winners are chosen in a free-form fashion. In fact, every single car and truck on the market is eligible for all six slots. There's no price cap, and no nonsense about having to be a new model or a redesigned nameplate. Essentially, we could honor any car or truck we want.
But we don't want to award six supercars either, so we've drawn ourselves a few guidelines. In an effort to keep it real, we attempt to choose a vehicle for each of the following needs: speed, luxury, hauling, commuting and family. However, the editors are not obligated to award a vehicle associated with each. If the Inside Line editors want to award supercars only, we still have that option.
The voting process involved 11 IL editors locked in a room, arguing about the cars they like best. A vehicle needed eight votes to win. It took about two hours and 10 pizzas to finalize the list. And it was fun. For the first hour, at least.
In the end, we ended up with a list of six truly great cars and trucks. Ladies and Gentlemen, the 2010 Edmunds' Inside Line Editors' Most Wanted Award winners are:
This is one of the fastest cars in the world when you're in a real-world setting. It's hard to believe we're saying this about a sedan that measures 195.6 inches overall and weighs more than 2 tons, but the facts are the facts. And the Panamera's awesome balance, massive 20-inch Michelin PS2s and all-wheel drive take its cornering speed to levels once reserved for all-out supercars like the Audi R8, Nissan GT-R and Porsche 911 Turbo.
But that awesome speed isn't the Panamera's most impressive performance feature. Instead it's the ease with which it reaches and sustains those speeds that gets you. This car is easier to drive at 9/10ths of its ability than a BMW M5 is to drive at 7/10ths of its ability. It's so composed, so not scary at extreme velocity, that backing off is always a matter of choice, not fear.
But you won't back off, because the Panamera is just too fun and too easy to drive way too fast. Instead you'll keep the pace up and enjoy the Porsche's crisp, intuitive steering action, incredible brakes, surprisingly good visibility (the big space between the mirror and the A-pillar is there for a reason) and the way its air suspension (even in the stiffest Sport Plus setting) soaks up midcorner bumps better than any car you've ever driven. The Porsche Panamera is nothing less than the finest high-performance four-door sedan money can buy, the ultimate combination of space, speed and luxury. — Scott Oldham, Editor in Chief
This is the second time an Audi R8 has made our Most Wanted list — the R8 was our Instant Classic of 2008.
Two years later there are few cars that can match the R8 V10's broad range of talents and satisfactions. It defines the modern everyday supercar. From its open-gate shifter to its ripping V10 to its luxurious interior and peerless style, this car is special.
But words on a screen don't capture the thrill of it all. With an 8,000-rpm power peak and an 8,700-rpm redline, the Audi's all-aluminum 5.2-liter V10 is the gift that keeps on giving. It just keeps accumulating thrust in a mad rush that ceases all conversation in the car. Or it does until you check the speedometer and say something along the lines of, "Oh, damn!" a millisecond before you back off.
And the car is utterly unflappable on any curving road you'd care to mention. Slow, tight mountain roads? No problem. The car is supernaturally nimble for its size. Open, sweeping valley roads? It is capable of such smooth, stable progress that you will be going much, much faster than a sane person would. — Daniel Pund, Senior Editor, Detroit
All you'll need to truly appreciate the F-150 SVT Raptor is a desire to drive fast over rough terrain. This is because the Raptor is a truck — that's right, a truck — that's engineered to be driven. This purposefulness became clear to us on the last day of our 10-day evaluation.
The decisive moment came mere fractions of a second after the truck left the ground — an important distinction in the driving of off-road machines. You see, any desert-dwelling flat-biller can find himself and his pickup in the air given enough hubris, horsepower and Hamm's — items that seem common enough in off-road circles. But it's the inevitable return to earth that distinguishes the Raptor.
It wasn't until the horizon reappeared from beneath the F-150's hood and all 5,957 pounds of Molten-Orange truck glided back to the ground with astonishing grace that we realized what Ford has created with the Raptor. This is quite possibly the most unique and entertaining vehicle sold in North America right now. — Josh Jacquot, Senior Road Test Editor
Mazda has changed the 2010 Mazda 3 without changing its attitude. New ingredients improve its dynamic makeup without compromising the spirit we loved so much in the outgoing model.
The previous-generation Mazda 3 earned our praise for its steering feel and sound body control, and some minor refinements for 2010 ensure that it keeps its personality intact. Its electrohydraulic-assist rack-and-pinion steering gear is now bolted down in three locations (one more than the previous year) to minimize vibration over rough pavement. Recalibrated dampers and relocated antiroll bars improve body control without adding harshness.
And the aforementioned upgrades in chassis rigidity work in sync with these suspension alterations to offer excellent handling balance and nicely weighted steering effort through the slalom. The 2010 Mazda 3 records 68.2 mph, a speed identical to the last Honda Civic Si we tested. That is impressive.
We appreciate the effort to refine products. But when a redesign is scheduled simply because the product lifecycle suggests it's time, the customer usually pays the price for a car that's different but not better. With numerous innovative options, class-leading dynamics, engaging driving character and a new look, the 2010 Mazda 3 continues to set the compact class standard.
This car is an example of how to do it right. — Mike Schmidt, Vehicle Testing Manager
This is not exactly the first vehicle that comes to mind when you hear the word "turbocharged," but there's no doubt that the Ford Flex is an even better vehicle now that it features the company's EcoBoost V6. Also known within Ford as Gasoline Turbo Direct Injection (GTDI), the EcoBoost technology is spreading quickly through Ford's and Lincoln's large cars and crossovers. It makes the Ford Flex most impressive in day-to-day passing situations, as there's simply no substitute for a big, thick torque curve. And this big ol' beast can now pass dawdlers with the same impulsive lack of forward planning as a car.
And we cannot dispute the fact that even while lugging around 4,839 pounds, the Flex GTDI feels as powerful and torque-rich as a V8. The Flex GTDI also delivers on the other EcoBoost promise of fuel economy, which is meant to be like that of a normally aspirated V6. At 16 mpg city and 22 mpg highway, the Flex GTDI delivers exactly the same fuel-efficiency as the standard all-wheel-drive Flex. That's what's known as a win-win.
The Ford Flex drives like a car, not a crossover. Just as its appearance promises, it shatters your expectations about the whole people-moving paradigm and delivers a luxurious, adult-rated experience. It's both functional and artful, like one of those pieces of kitchenware on display at the Museum of Modern Art in New York. If not for the vehicles from the SVT group, the Flex would be the best thing with a Ford badge that you can buy. — Daniel Pund, Senior Editor, Detroit
Instant Classic: 2010 Ford Shelby GT500
Forget that the GT500 sprints to 60 mph from a standstill in 4.6 seconds (4.3 seconds with 1 foot of rollout like on a drag strip) and takes down the quarter-mile in 12.6 seconds at 113.5 mph. The accelerative might afforded by its 540 hp is only a peripheral component of the GT500's appeal.
Instead, it's the way Ford has made the slabular 3,901-pound GT500 willing to dance. Hustling the Shelby into a slightly off-camber 2nd-gear corner, hard on the brakes, the Shelby's nose dips but doesn't squirm laterally. At turn-in, the front end obeys with an assured confidence, if not quite the blazing reflexes of the Mustang GT with its lighter engine. Still, it has poise. The Shelby's well-weighted, responsive steering loads up predictably as you approach the apex and squeeze the throttle for the exit.
With a muted blower whine under the hood, the tail of the car steps out progressively. It's easy to catch, and you can stand on the gas out of the corner in absolute confidence that the tinge of blue tire smoke will stay behind you. This tail-out technique isn't the fastest way through a corner, but it's the most fun and the GT500 makes it so bloody easy.
That this car is sized right and you can actually see out of the thing only makes it easier to exploit its abilities. For a car of its mass, the GT500's control feel is astonishing and cements the conclusion that the GT500 is a $50,000 Mustang that is worth the price of admission.
This is a machine to be lusted after. Today and tomorrow. — Jason Kavanagh, Engineering Editor
Add A Comment »
hilbillyhitman says:
06:26 PM, 12/07/2009
Reading about the GT500 had me wanting one, but a weekend rental of a Mustang GT poured cold water on it, just for little things. I hated the dash layout, the seatbelts, and the remote entry. I'd like to support Ford, guess it will have to be the Raptor.
belly1 says:
10:38 AM, 12/05/2009
Everything but the Mazda 3. That thing loses on looks alone. It is so sad that a great package has to look that ugly. It really looks like a cartoon.
docrobot says:
09:52 PM, 12/03/2009
Making the Shelby GT500 this year's Instant Classic pretty much seals the deal for me purchase wise. It verifies the improved dynamics I have read about and seen in videos at so many other sites! Picture me in a nice Grabber Blue Clearcoat Convertable in the Rocky Mountains...
As for the increased weight theme on this thread, my oh my! Why does everyone forget that most of the weight gains are caused by desirable government mandated safety features like more effective crumple zones, air bag systems, etc.
As well, modern vehicles are much quieter in part to increased sound deadening and reduced NVH techniques. Modern sound systems often come with 7 to 14 speakers, one or two subs, multiple high power amps, blue tooth integration, Sat Nav, multiple video screens, etc...
Many other areas of weight gain come from other desirable items that increase the performance we all crave. Imagine the weight gains from larger 18, 19 or 20 inch wheels and tires, stronger chassis, larger disk brakes, larger and heavier engines, turbos, superchargers, paddle shifted 7 or 8 speed auto transmissions, 2 or 3 differentials, all wheel drive systems and heavy exhaust systems with 2, 4 or 6 Resonators and Catalytic Converters...
Many desirable vehicles can easily load up so many high profit options as to raise the selling price 50%! I dare you to go build and price your favorite new vehicle online and not take ANY options and still be happy with that choice. There's most of your weight gain right there!
Drive any modern model and compare it with an older version from 10 or 20 years ago and you can see, hear and feel where the weight has been added. Modern Mustangs feel solider, have way better interiors, and are much, much safer than previous models. It is so evident that you instinctively KNOW this even before you adjust your 12 way powered, heated, air conditioned, stereo speaker laden and vibrating drivers seat!
My oh my...
clarencehollow says:
02:26 PM, 12/03/2009
What is interesting is that of all the real estate that vehicles take up on websites and magazines - most are all specialty vehicles that actually can be marketed to 3% of the entire US population. Looking through the latest Automotive News - I am actually high balling the number. So these are the editors picks huh!? That's nice - now can you please focus on what people really can buy and really want?
charlesb says:
08:10 AM, 12/02/2009
Until I checked the calandar I thought this list was some kind of April Fool's joke. Most of these vehicles are too heavy and too thirsty for practical use. The V10 Audi is a very cool car but the money's kind of crazy.
raptor169rider says:
09:13 PM, 12/01/2009
I picked #3 for a reason...the raptor is good at everything. sound system (both inside and out), hauling, day to day driving, and surprisingly comfort and parking...its a shortbed,supercab with a backup camera and there hasnt been one person that hasnt left my passenger seat saying "wow those seats are really comfortable"
when looking around and driving various cars, I really couldnt find anything as exciting as the raptor. I took it over any other truck (duh) but also over an XFR. And now people are thinking, well its not that good it cant be, but it is. Nothing compares.
oh and it gets its share of compliments...everyday ;D
frommx5tomz3 says:
08:21 PM, 12/01/2009
If I was making the list, I'd keep the Flex and the R8 right where they are, but I'd change the others.
For a luxury sedan, give me an A8. I've never owned an Audi, but consider me in lust with the whole lineup. I'm dying to get an S5, but where to put it on the list?
As far as the hauler goes, I don't really care to be honest. My "ultimate garage" wouldn't have a pickup of any kind. Maybe this is where I add the S5 :)
I'm a Mazda fanboy, but I can't see the 3 as my commuter. It's the GTI - no brainer. If you haven't driven the 2010, you really are missing an unbelievable package for the money.
Instant Classic...hmmmm maybe the Camaro SS even though I'm not a muscle car guy.
surfwagon56 says:
07:36 PM, 12/01/2009
I've been a Ford fan since my first new car ('95 Mustang GT), so I'm happy to see Ford on this list. One thing I noticed is the mass of many of these new vehicles, even the "sports" ones:
Panamera: "measures 195.6 inches overall and weighs more than 2 tons"
Raptor: "all 5,957 pounds of Molten-Orange truck"
Flex: "while lugging around 4,839 pounds"
GT500: "the slabular 3,901-pound GT500"
Our '56 Nomad had an original curb weight of 3500 pounds with an iron block V8 and acres of chrome, it's so long it barely fits in the garage. I know cars have much more content now than 50 years ago, but it still seems to me that car companies should be putting their cars on diets to improve mileage and performance.
dino6 says:
03:34 PM, 12/01/2009
I've always been a Ford fan simply because I had a Revell model Mustang in 66 when I was still in short pants. So its great to see Fomoco w/4 of the 6.
I agree with all the choices. The Raptor is my favorite though, and I'd take it even over the Porsche or the Audi. The Porsche would accumulate speeding tickets like crazy. Been there, done that with a 928 in the early 80s.
wjtinatl says:
03:29 PM, 12/01/2009
EcoBoost Flex-Yes, only reasonably fun 7 passenger people mover out there, funky looks don't hurt
Shelby GT500-Ummm, every year for the GT500 has been better than the last, the 2010 looks to be even stronger given the new 400hp standard GT motor, I'd pass
Mazda 3-Definitely a great econobox, but so what. For 20 grand I'd look for a lightly used Mini Cooper S or Volvo C30, even a R32.
Audi R8-No doubt! Outside of a Ferrari or Aston Martin, I cannot think of a more desirable piece of automotive sculpture. However, daily usability & relaiability sometimes dilutes the exotic flavor, see Acura NSX
Panamera-Love the engineering and concept, borderline ugly and definitely not how I'm spending 100 grand.
Raptor-Hmmmm, bet we see lots of these on used car lots in 12-18 months. Sweet truck with bitchin looks and unbelievable capability, but using it every day? Pass
To your list I'd add:
911 Turbo: Every kids wet dream and still the head turner extrordinaire
Viper: Almost a ditto, and born in the USA to boot!
Mercedes S600: If I'm loaded and need a sedan, but not a Porsche sedan
Regardless, I really want you guys jobs!
TPAWRX says:
02:49 PM, 12/01/2009
Good article, not that I totally agree with all of these selections but this is a well written article and you can't help but agree that all of these vehicles are truly unique.
cumadogg says:
02:46 PM, 12/01/2009
Love the Ecoboost Flex - now if I CAN JUST FIND ONE!!!!!
kingkhalas says:
02:46 PM, 12/01/2009
Agree with the Shelby and the Audi.
jatbeni says:
11:56 AM, 12/01/2009
Totally agree with the following -
1) The Audi R8 V10 - for its futuristic styling and desirability over a similarly capable 911
2) The SVT Raptor - my first choice for an off road performance vehicle, and given some spare cash - a vehicle I would pick up over anything else.
3) The Ford Flex - great people mover
Maybe -
1) The Mazda 3 - I would get a Golf GTI instead - or perhaps - the Diesel - still debating the hp vs. torque debate
2) The Ford Shelby GT500 - Instant Classic?? R u sure... car's good, but that good??
Blah -
1) The Panamera - sure, its great at 9/10ths - but who is driving that car that fast - maybe a few auto journos... but I really don't see a market for this car, and I believe - that's the word from the VW bosses too, who are not planning any successors.
Anyway - great to see Ford do so well. Time to buy some more Ford stock - and add to my position!! This company is going great guns... so lets toast to that.
ocramida says:
10:28 AM, 12/01/2009
ddark13
I think the last line sums up WHY the 3 made the list: " This car is an example of how to do it right." I'd say just for the sake of measurable improvements and consistency the 3 deserves to be on this list. Mazda has been hittign balls outta of the park over the past few years and the 3 shows how good they are with upping the ante. Having owned a 04 3 a MS3 and having driven the 2010 3GT I think the new 3 is a measurable improvement without loosing any of the personality and edge it has in that part of the market. The 3 is as good if not better than many more expensive cars and I would argue much more desireable at that price than anything else out there- barring the exotics. VW, well they are overpriced and have a long history of spotty reliability/quality.
nerv2010 says:
09:45 AM, 12/01/2009
Nice list of cars. I wouldn't say the GT500 is an "instant classic" however.
Re: canddmeyer
I've already seen two of the R8 5.2s and a Panamera so you should come visit. As for a GT500, I've only seen one on the local car lot. Where it sat there for months on end.
fuhteng says:
07:23 AM, 12/01/2009
"Just as the name says, these are the six vehicles that the editors of Inside Line want the most. They're the ones we personally lust after. The ones we desire. Our personal favorites. These are the cars and trucks we like best, like it or not." - hey ddark13, they didn't want inevitable electrical faults, so they went with vehicles that have at least a decent reputation for reliability. I can't blame them.
Good list. I like the lack of a price limit.
bodyblue says:
05:06 AM, 12/01/2009
I think the Porsche is rather nice looking. And ditto the hats off to Ford. In ten years it will probably be the only American car maker.
alexdi says:
03:51 AM, 12/01/2009
I'm thrilled that four of six are Ford or derived from Ford assets. Between the Audi and the Porsche, the latter seems the greater engineering achievement, though I consider the Audi the best vehicle on the road today. Who'd have thought the successor to the NSX would come from a German company?
canddmeyer says:
02:36 AM, 12/01/2009
Wow. Not the most inspiring article. The Porsche and Audi I'll probably never see on the road. I saw the Shelby up close, and the old fart driving it had a grin from ear to ear.
ddark13 says:
11:37 PM, 11/30/2009
i agree with the list. however, personally, i would've excluded the mazda 3 (nothing special or innovative about it...particularily over the last model) and replaced it with the vw gti (automobilemag car of the year) or the vw cc (unbelievable value/appeal for anyone except toyota/honda drivers)
wrinklebump says:
11:00 PM, 11/30/2009
If the Panamera wasn't the ugliest ugly that ever uglied it'd be pretty cool
qqt414 says:
10:41 PM, 11/30/2009
Wow props to Ford. Can't wait for the new fiesta and Focus next year to hopefully keep the list going!
smihal says:
09:58 PM, 11/30/2009
GT500 is a strange choice for instant classic.
daylight99 says:
09:15 PM, 11/30/2009
As a die-hard JDM & German import enthusiast, owner and driver, hats off to Ford for the Raptor! Wish I had the space for one.. Hmm.. must ditch something in the garage....