Australia's Best Cars (ABC) brings together all the mainstream makes and models and delivers a verdict on the credentials of each class to make it one of the most consumer-focused car awards. The weightings for various criteria have been sourced from surveys of what people tell us they want from new vehicles.

Being consumer focused, there's no need for a single winner. If you're in the market for a small car, for example, you'll have little interest in luxury vehicles or off-roaders.

The rationale behind Australia's Best Cars is to take the legwork out of your search for the best new vehicles. You can even search by criteria for a vehicle that suits your needs. If you need to find a vehicle specifically with the best space, safety, dynamics or environment, it's available at Australia's Best Cars.

2006 results

High fuel prices have seen small and medium-sized cars become the industry pacesetters. Pump prices have decimated sales of larger passenger cars and 4WDs. The only anomaly is the increasingly cutthroat luxury 4WD class, now more popular than ever.

Diesel, hybrid and LPG-powered cars have become increasingly popular. The supply of cleaner diesel fuel in particular has allowed many importers to introduce several new models. In fact, if you look back to the results in 2000 only one diesel vehicle appeared - and it didn't win!

This year, there were a number of diesel contenders and three winners: Volkswagen Polo TDi for Best small car, Volkswagen Jetta for Best mid-size car over $28,000 and Land Rover Discovery 3 TDV6 SE for Best all-terrain 4WD.

Diesel now powers double the number of cars it did in 2005 and still accounts for one in five off-roaders.

It's similar with the hybrid and LPG vehicles. In 2000, none were represented. This year, we see three hybrid entrants and one hybrid winner: Hybrid Lexus GS450H for Best luxury class. We also saw the LPG Falcon eligible for Large car.

Changes to this year's awards

There were a few category changes made. Best sports car under $57,000 is now Best sports car; Best sports car over $57,000 is now Best luxury sports car; Best luxury car under $57,000 is now Best prestige car; and Best luxury car over $57,000 is now Best luxury car. The changes were made to better reflect car prices in these categories. The luxury cars are more likely to be over $80,000 rather than $57,000, even though $57,000 is recognised as the luxury car tax threshold.

Changes were also made to the judging criteria and scoring based on consumer feedback and a judges review. Scores are now one to 10 instead of one to five, which reduces the chance of having a line of similar scores as has happened in the past.

Eligibility and criteria

All new passenger vehicles were eligible provided they were not limited edition models, were available for testing by ABC judges and were on sale by the October 26, 2006 cut-off date.

Vehicle awards are granted in 12 key consumer categories and based on areas of topical interest such as fuel efficiency, safety and depreciation, as well as value for money, design and function, and road performance.

Road testers from the nations' motoring clubs make up the judging panel. They have a reputation for being independent, credible and relevant.

Judging and scoring

Any part of a car that can be measured is measured - inside and out.

Each vehicle then undergoes a battery of tests on equipment and practicality, noise, braking and acceleration, and assessment over a variety of terrain and road surfaces to obtain scores for driving and functionality.

After testing is complete, scores are tabulated. The winner is the vehicle with the highest score.

For more details on ABC or to view the score sheets, visit Australia's Best Cars.

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Australia's Best Cars magazine

Since its inception in 2000, Australia's Best Cars Awards has become one of the most important sources of information for new car buyers.
Up to seven million auto club Members have benefitted so far, either through their clubs' magazines or calls to the clubs' technical advisors who refer to the ABC's results. At the same time the ABC website has played an invaluable role in educating the wider community.

This year, the full results are now available in a new magazine, Australia's Best Cars. For the first time Australia's Best Cars judges have delivered verdicts beyond a summary of winners and runners-up. The magazine features 144 pages of car reviews, with details of each cars strengths and shortcomings, and buying advice and tips.

Australia's Best Cars is available to Members for $7.95 plus p&h ($9.95 plus p&h for non-Members). To get your copy of Australia's Best Cars magazine or for more details, call 13 11 22 or visit our online shop.

2006 winners

Best small car

Volkswagen Polo TDi*

PRICE: $22,990
1.9-litre, five-speed manual, five-door hatch

Best features:

Performance
Fuel consumption
Handling
Security

SECOND-PLACE: Ford Fiesta LX
THIRD-PLACE: Honda Jazz

At $22,990 the VW Polo TDi may initially sound expensive in such a budget conscious category, but weigh up the cost of long term ownership and what you get for your money it is clearly Australia's best small car. This is one of the most affordable in a new breed of strong performing and fuel efficient turbo-diesel passenger car models.

Close the Polo door and the deep thump says this is a solidly built car. The trim materials are a little bland but the fit and finish was impressive, the level of equipment top class and the four-star Euro or ANCAP safety rating, reassuring. In typical European fashion, the indicators are on the left stalk but otherwise the presentation at the wheel is straightforward and functional. As well as boasting all the big ticket equipment items, the Polo has conveniences not found in many other small cars, such as a steering column that adjusts for height and reach.

Precise German design engineering delivers top class on-road ability. The diesel powered, 5-speed manual Polo TDi is an easy car to drive, but still involving enough to enjoy the experience. The down side is the absence of an auto version.

While the Polo's 1.4 litre petrol version has many of the same appealing attributes in terms of design, quality and superb ride and handling package, it can't match the outstanding performance and low fuel consumption of the larger capacity 1.9-litre turbo diesel powered, TDi model. Then again, neither can any other car in the class. The Polo TDi engine is unobtrusive, despite a little more cabin noise than in some quieter petrol models in the class.

Like all small cars, space in the back for large adults can be tight but in the context of the class the leg room is reasonable and the head room is good. Having four doors makes entry to the rear far easier than squeezing past the front seats in two door models, and the wide opening rear hatch provides good access to a small but usable luggage area.

Another plus is the on-going ownership expenses, such as servicing and insurance which offsets the purchase price. The Polo TDi costs over 5-years are lower than some of its popular Japanese rivals making the VW Polo TDi a really well-rounded package.

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Best mid-size car under $28,000

Honda Civic VTi

PRICE: $21,490
1.8-litre, five-speed manual, four-door sedan

Best features:

Build and finish
Fuel consumption
Smoothness and quietness
Environment

SECOND-PLACE: Hyundai Elantra
THIRD-PLACE: Mazda3 Maxx

In the ultra competitive Mid-Size Car Under $28,000 category where an affordable price is crucial but high quality is still expected, Honda's Civic has both sides of the equation well covered.

The Civic's strength is its all-round ability. It clearly leads the way in design and function, and is among the best for its on-road ability and value for money in its class.

Civic VTi looks and feels like a more expensive car than its attractive price tag might suggest. By building the Civic in Thailand, Honda has brought the price down but maintained the standard of quality we've come to expect in the Japanese models. For an entry-level model Honda has also chosen the VTi's equipment wisely and upgraded the security system, which was well below average in past models. Its value for money extends to practical design and clever engineering, not just superficial add-ons. However, there are a few minor cost saving measures evident in areas such as the boot hinges, a one piece folding rear seat and even some trim materials.

A typical 4/5 seat sedan, the Civic isn't the biggest car in the class but the well laid out cabin has an open ambiance, while excellent ergonomics and appropriate front seat shaping sets the scene for a comfortable driving experience. The unique two-tier dash features an excellent forward mounted speedo with a large easy to read, digital display.
Mechanically it's a refined package that is smooth, quiet and does very little wrong in terms of handling and ride even if it doesn't excite the sporting enthusiast. While the Civic scores reasonably well in safety, it's a pity the safety equipment doesn't extend to include ESP (electronic stability control).

High petrol prices have generated a great deal of interest in the mid-size four-cylinder market, and the 1.8 litre power Civic VTi delivers excellent fuel economy without compromising too much in performance. In true Honda tradition, the free revving engine is a willing worker that is technically sophisticated and environmentally friendly. There are a couple of stronger performers in the class, but the VTi is still better than most. And for those who prefer a little extra grunt, Honda does have the more expensive 2.0 litre Civic Sport version.

Best mid-size car over $28,000

Volkswagen Jetta TDI

PRICE: $37,790
2.0-litre, six-speed DSG, four-door sedan

Best features:

Standard features
Safety
Handling
Practicality

SECOND-PLACE: Subaru Liberty 2.5
THIRD-PLACE: Honda Accord Euro

Jetta cops a caning for being little more than a Golf hatchback with a boot. There's some truth to the matter considering Jetta utilises the Golf V platform and many of its drive train options. But the longer Jetta is also much more than a Golf.

For starters its equipment lists are superior and the standout features on those lists all relate to safety. Jetta gains ESP and Brake Assist with other conveniences such as a full-size spare wheel, tyre pressure monitoring, rear parking sensors, dual zone climate control and a ski hatch.

Meanwhile, its controversial boot is akin to the largest sedans. It is quite simply cavernous and makes the Jetta a better bet in the space race. And that's before its multitude of storage options come into play.

Jetta also looks subtly different from Golf, with more chrome and a different nose up front.

This German four-door is available with three direct-injection 2.0-litre engines: two petrol versions and a turbo-diesel, all of which utilise six-speed gearboxes.

The 2.0-litre turbo-diesel offers superior fuel economy, but the 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine counters with performance and smoothness advantages.

Both cars cede ground to foes on price but strike back with healthy features, a warranty that includes extended corrosion protection and a fair tally when it comes to running and repair costs.

Although not at the head of the class for design and function there's little to criticise either. And the most crucial scoring areas of safety, environment and build quality are all strong points for the VWs.

The firm seats and slightly angled ergonomic set-up could be more user friendly if either is a pet hate.

Although it ranks behind its brother for noise suppression, the diesel doesn’t deliver any intrusive clatter of note. Both are smooth enough sorts, with the only distractions tyre roar on rough roads.

Jetta excels for handling with a nice weight and accuracy to the steering, high grip levels and the ability to corner capably.

Firm suspension settings rob this German duo of the ability to smooth over all road blemishes, the sportier turbo FSI more affected, but both remain composed even over rough Aussie back roads.

Performance from either Jetta is exceptional, with plenty of thrust from low revs and a surprisingly flexible nature. The popular dual-clutch Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG) available on both is generally a smooth and swift operator, although it allows the torque to arrive in a rush from a standstill.

Jetta is designed for the US and made in Mexico. We expect it will appeal to Australians as a quality mid-size package with distinct European charm.

Best large car

Toyota Aurion AT-X

PRICE: $34,990
3.5-litres, six-speed auto, four-door sedan

Best features:

Performance
Safety
Build and finish
Ergonomics

SECOND-PLACE: Mitsubishi 380
THIRD-PLACE: Holden Omega

Born-again Toyota has finally taken Australian large cars seriously enough to produce a sedan worthy of praise in this land of big sixes. With Aurion, whose name comes from the ancient Greek for tomorrow or first light, there's a new dawn of locally sourced safety and smoothness on offer. Refreshingly, there's also none of the cynical marketing measures that see aircon or other key equipment withheld to boost the bottom line.

Buyers of the base car, the AT-X, are now beneficiaries of potentially life-saving technology like vehicle stability control, anti-lock brakes with electronic and hydraulic assistance and six airbags.

It's also hard not to be impressed by the smooth, powerful and efficient drivetrain, in essence a high-tech 3.5-litre V6 and six-speed automatic gearbox from luxury division Lexus.

Toyota is nothing if not methodical, and the mistakes from previous forays into the nation's much-loved large car class are distant memories. It claims the locally made Aurion is the most Australian Toyota yet.

Although it shares much with Camry, Toyota Australia has been smart enough to sharpen up on value, the name, styling, servicing needs and seating in its new six-cylinder creation. Even accounting for equipment, Aurion is much more than a V6 Camry.

In just about every way it's also a much tougher adversary for Commodore, Mitsubishi and Falcon.

Aurion is outstanding in design and function, with typical tight Toyota build quality, a class-leading environment score, stacks of safety and a driving layout smacking of simplicity and style.

It's not the biggest, most comfortable or the standout on security in the class but it's close enough on all counts.

Rear passenger space is impressive before boot constraints bring it back to the field. There is always room for improvement of course, with a foot-operated park brake, a ski-hatch and hinges that hamper boot flexibility.

On the move it is a quiet, powerful and comfortable car. The engine offers plenty of silken performance, albeit at higher revs than other lazy, low-end locals, while shifts from the sequential six-speed are both creamy and decisive. It lacks some towing talent but won't disappoint on other benchmarks.

Another perceived weakness has always been Toyota's front-wheel-drive configuration. The big Toyota handles capably and predictably, even on gravel roads. It offers nicely weighted steering, high grip levels and benign balance. Plus, there's that stability control safety net.

Factor in the comfortable ride, hushed cabin and reassuring brakes and Aurion stacks up dynamically.

It also adds up on the economic front. Sharp pricing, decent depreciation prospects and a competitive set of ongoing sums are sure to appeal.

Overall, the new Toyota is well-rounded, quiet and suitably ocker. It is a worthy winner of the large car class this year with its ability to offer technology and refinement from the luxury car class at a family price.

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Best people mover

Honda Odyssey Luxury

PRICE: $45,790
2.4-litre petrol, five-speed auto, four-door

Best features:

Ergonomics
Handling
Braking
Smoothness and quietness

SECOND-PLACE: Mitsubishi Grandis
THIRD-PLACE: Toyota Avensis

Honda's latest generation Odyssey won the Best People Mover gong on debut in 2004, and despite the arrival of impressive new opponents last year, retained its title.

With no major new players in this segment in 2006 and only minor cosmetic and equipment upgrades across the board, the Odyssey Luxury takes top honours for the third straight year.

Odyssey drivers and even some passengers often say they find it very car-like, unlike the van-style ergonomics and dynamics of previous generations of people movers.

Whereas other people movers tend to offer high-riding seating, Odyssey's low set seats contributes to the car-like look and feel. The Honda chairs are comfy for all occupants, even in the third row, which so often compromises on comfort and practicality.

The rear two rows can flip and slide in various ways to provide plenty of load and/or people carrying options. The electrically assisted operation of the third row seats disappearing under the floor is preferable to the cumbersome manual method on the lower spec version and other people movers, not to mention the extra space it creates.

There is generous space for all occupants but make sure they travel light because with the rear seat in use there is precious little cargo space.

And inexplicably, the Odyssey has no full lap-sash belt for the centre middle row passenger while the placement of the child restraint anchorages still disappoints.

But it's the Odyssey's many positives that got it over the line again. Like the airy cabin with plenty of cup holders, nooks and crannies coveted by young families. And standard equipment including heated seats, dual air-con, sunroof, high-end multi-speaker sound system with 6-CD stacker, curtain airbags and what many of out testers rated the best ergonomics they've encountered.

The 2.4 litre DOHC i-VTEC engine is a willing performer and works well with the smooth 5-speed sequentially shifting auto, with its nifty dash-mounted stubby shift lever. While pretty easy on the unleaded, it can get thirsty if not driven with care.

For a vehicle weighing over 1600kgs it handles remarkably well thanks to Honda's favoured double wishbone suspension and thoughtful suspension tuning. The quality tyres on 16" alloys also contribute in no small way to the car's remarkable poise and balance on challenging roads.

Although it waxed and waned against the others in the components of the Value For Money and Design and Function criteria the Odyssey picked up votes in the On the Road section, collecting highest scores for handling and smoothness and quietness. And so, it collected win number three.

Best sports car

Volkswagen Golf Gti

PRICE: $39,990
2.0-litre turbo, six-speed manual, five-door hatch

Best features:

Running and repair costs
Fuel consumption
Handling
Environment

SECOND-PLACE: Mitsubishi Lancer Evo 9
THIRD-PLACE: Ford Focus XR5-T

For the second year running Volkswagen's Golf Gti has claimed the Sports Car prize. Designed over 30 years ago, it laid the framework for a new motoring genre, the hot hatch.

Today's car combines the original's spirit with 2006 levels of comfort, safety and performance.

A long list of standard equipment and VW's typically high standard of fit and finish give the Golf a head start over the opposition. Of course performance is a critical factor in this category and the Gti's direct injected turbo power doesn't disappoint. There's a healthy supply of mid-range torque to keep things moving, and the slick shifting six speed manual's ratios are perfectly matched to the engine's characteristics. As good as the manual gearbox is the optional DSG (Direct Shift Gearbox) offers an ideal choice for performance and convenience. Clever electronics take care of the twin clutch assemblies operation, with one gear engaged and one ready to be engaged. For the driver this means marginally faster acceleration than the conventional six speed plus lightning fast, virtually seamless shifts. You can use the gearlever or wheel mounted paddles to change gear, and if you feel like a rest just select full automatic mode. It's the best of both worlds.

The Golf's power and performance figures aren't the highest or quickest in the class, but don't discount its ability. This is a rapid car, but one that is just as comfortable around town as on the open road. While some of the other contenders are more "single-minded" in their character, the Gti offers high levels of performance and handling which are easily accessible but not intimidating.

Where the car shines above the rest is the way it combines power with impressive chassis dynamics to form a complete package. One never outdoes the other. Handling is nimble and direct, the sharp steering providing good feedback, and there's remarkable overall grip. Torque-steer is virtually non existent, adding to the chassis' stability. As speeds increase, the Gti's agility and secure feel are unchanged, although large bumps can find the limit of the suspension's travel.

Comfort isn't ignored, the sports seats provide excellent support, and the squared off roofline means there's plenty of head room front and rear. As on the standard Golf the interior fit and finish is excellent. A leather trimmed sports steering wheel and alloy pedals adding some high performance touches. Instrumentation and switchgear are well laid out and easy to use, although the gear indicator on DSG equipped cars can be difficult to read at a glance.

To some eyes the Gti's style may be too subtle. But the Gti is best because it does everything so well, delivering an impressive combination of safety, equipment, quality and effortless performance.

Best luxury sports car

Audi RS4 Quattro

PRICE: $164,500
4.2-litre, six-speed manual, four-door sports

Best features:

Performance
Handling
Braking
Safety

SECOND-PLACE: BMW 335i
THIRD-PLACE: Mercedes-Benz CLK350

For the ultimate motoring indulgences look no further than the luxury sports car class.

High purchase prices and annual costs, limited practicality and exhilarating driving traits are all hallmarks of this elite group. They are both a showcase of technology and a statement of success.

The last several years ABC's high-end sporting category has been a case of pick a German, any German. This year the snarling sedan clobbered the coupes and relegated some legendary machines to secondary status.

Audi has taken its quattro all-wheel-drive system to new levels in the RS4 while turning up the heat on performance. With a high-revving and powerful direct-injection 4.2-litre V8 under the bonnet and the surety of four massively tyred wheels delivering power and grip, the RS4 is an inspiring machine.

It dominates the class for outright pace and never proves tiring even though the only gearbox is a six-speed manual. The engine is eminently flexible at low revs while credit is due to Audi's specialist sporting arm Renn Sport for engineering a user-friendly clutch and gearbox combination.

To combat its fast and furious nature the brakes are amazingly strong and effective, even after punishing hilly runs.

Although it lacks the purity and handling delicacy of the Porsche Cayman S, it makes up for that shortfall with prodigious grip, outstanding balance and certain steering.

The RS4's crackling V8 plus an ability to press a button on the steering wheel to pump up the seat bolstering and quicken the throttle response also provide an entertainment factor that sets this car apart.

Usual Audi fundamentals apply which means a finely crafted cabin, impressive build standards, high security levels and plenty of active and passive safety features. The price produces an enviable list of equipment making it more comfy as a regular commuting car.

The suspension is firm and sporty which brings some low-speed ride issues over sharp edges while dropping into those stiffly bolstered front seats can, quite literally, be a pain in the rear end. It's also a thirsty sort with a liking for the top grade of premium petrol.

And despite the practicality pluses of extra and useable seats, four doors and a decent boot there's also no spare wheel, rather tyre sealant and a compressor.

Like most in the class this Audi is a highly personal purchase. The RS4's shape and lack of exterior adornments allow it to be more covert than its peers while retaining a functional and spacious cabin.

Don't think the extra weight of the sedan or its boxy shape saps its sportiness, the RS4 still delivers the wow-factor. That it remains relevant for daily use is just an added bonus.

Best recreational 4WD

Subaru Forester X

PRICE: $33,990
2.5-litre, four-speed auto, four-door wagon

Best features:

Practicality
4WD ability
Handling
Security

SECOND-PLACE: Hyundai Santa Fe
THIRD-PLACE: Subaru Outback 2.5

The Forester's strength is its car like feel and handling, the latter thanks to a low centre of gravity and yet it still has a surprising level of off-road ability. Forester's lighter weight also assists it in sandy conditions allowing it to ride over rather than plough through like some of the larger four-wheel-drives.

The pricing is keen with a good level of standard features. And it shone in respect to security, safety, cost of depreciation, fuel economy, comfort and practicality. Its total design package also gives it the manoeuvrability and nimbleness of a smaller car, which is not surprising as it is built on the Impreza floor pan. It also features a seat height that is more easily negotiated than many of the larger four-wheel-drives, and vision all round is better than many.

Forester's five-speed manual transmission has a dual range for the heavier off-road stuff and if you have difficulty taking off on hills, Forester's hill-holder feature, which stops the vehicle rolling backwards on take off, will be a boon. The four-speed sequential automatic transmission Forester does not provide a low range function.

Although all-wheel-drive systems provide more stable handling, it's a pity that Subaru don't offer an electronic stability control option in the Forester.

While ergonomics are reasonably good, with everything in easy reach and simple to operate, the addition of steering wheel mounted audio controls, and a reach adjustable steering column would a plus. In fact, Forester's interior is looking rather dated and a makeover would help. The modest cargo area can be made more useful with 60/40 split rear seat. Road and engine noise levels could also do with a little more suppression and it fell short on Running and Repair Costs and Warranty compared to some of its competitors.

However, the Forester is a great family lifestyle vehicle as it offers sedan-like manners around town, the functionality of a four-wheel-drive and best of all, it fulfils these duties without the expense of high fuel consumption. And with its good ride and excellent handling qualities on the bitumen, the car gives you a high level of driving confidence. As with most of the Subaru brand, Forester's build and finish quality is extremely good.

Forester was one of the first small affordable all-wheel drive vehicles to hit the Aussie market that had the ability to get you off the bitumen and on to beaches, mud and snow. However, it does not come with the pretence that it was ever intended as a desert conqueror.

Best luxury car

Lexus GS450H

PRICE: $121,990
3.5 litre, CVT, four-door sedan

Best features:

Performance
Environment
Fuel consumption
Smoothness and quietness

SECOND-PLACE: Mercedes-Benz E350
THIRD-PLACE: Audi A6 3.0 TDI and petrol

The Lexus GS450H may well be the "dawn of a new era" that redefines Luxury cars. This Hybrid luxury vehicle is powered by a petrol/electric powertrain - a 3.5 litre quad cam aluminum V6 - in its own right it develops 218 kW of power and 368Nm of torque, most of it developed across a broad rpm range, between 2,000 and 6,000, rpm. Its performance with this engine alone would eclipse most in the luxury class. The electric motor develops 124kW of power and 275Nm of torque at zero rpm. Clever technology combines the two and provides 254 kW of power, as much as many modern V8 engines - importantly though the GS450H delivers four cylinder economy and low emissions and with whisper quiet efficiency that is best in class.

Lexus has raised the bar in many areas, build quality inside and out is of the highest standard, although it lacks some of the style and finesse that is inherent in this class, and in comfort for front and rear occupants, there are some better. The high tech nature of the GS450H may worry some, but with the vehicle built by Lexus and the technology so successfully used by Toyota those concerns should be allayed.

And forget about having to change your driving style for a hybrid vehicle. It performs like a V8 and has the ride and handling qualities to match this level of performance. Steering feel or lack of it was the only minor complaint. Driver aids like stability control and a full compliment of airbags give the GS450H top marks for safety and maximum torque from take off delivered with an eerie quietness is a sensation worth getting used to.

The Regenerative braking system doesn't provide the best brake pedal feel back to the driver, clever technology converts kinetic energy from the vehicles forward motion with the conventional braking system to slow the Hybrid and recharge the battery. As a result the brakes have a peculiar feel initially.

The term social responsibility is a buzzword in these times of higher than ever fuel prices, diminishing fuel reserves and increasing global warming, especially when it comes to transport. Along comes a vehicle from a manufacturer that has redefined the luxury market in terms of quality and reliability, and has green credentials. Until now, you'd have to go down a notch to the cheaper Hybrid offerings or look at a diesel powered vehicle. But with high performance levels, and low emissions and fuel consumption, the 'greener alternative GS450H' has proved a winner.

Best prestige car

Lexus IS250

PRICE: $56,490
2.5-litre, six-speed sequential auto, four-door sedan

Best features:

Fuel consumption
Security
Environment
Warranty

SECOND-PLACE: Subaru Liberty 3.0R
THIRD-PLACE: Honda Legend

This category was one of the most closely fought and saw some robust late night discussions before a clear winner emerged. In the end the IS250 just pipped last years victor, the Subaru, with better marks for fuel consumption, warranty, security environment and build quality. It also picked up on ride and smoothness/quietness - a Lexus strength.

Buyers in the Prestige category expect a certain level of refinement and luxury accoutrements and the IS250 doesn't disappoint.

You'd expect power windows and mirrors and climate control aircon and cruise control but the 13-speaker sound system, power-operated, foldaway exterior mirrors and keyless entry/ignition are bonuses. The latter lets you keep the key in your pocket or handbag using a dash-mounted button to stop and start the car. Sure impresses passengers.

They might also be impressed by the considerable safety features such as eight airbags (including side curtains in the rear and one for driver knee protection), traction and stability controls, ABS, and brake force distribution.

The interior design is tasteful, earning a good ergonomic score and general approval for the groovy so-called "light sabre" instrument illumination.

Open the wallet wider and you can get some really nifty gear by optioning-up or by going for either the Sports or Sports Luxury models. These offer goodies such as a Mark Levinson sound system, sonar parking assistance, rear camera and adaptable cruise control. Plus, the best touch screen controls and satnav system on the market.

The IS250 was by no means the highest scoring in the performance criterion but the 2.5 litre DOHC V6 - all-new and lighter and more advanced than the inline two and three litre sixes used in previous models - is among the most refined and eco-friendly of the engines available in this segment.

Dual VVTi means variable valve timing on both inlet and exhaust for improved fuel efficiency and lower emissions (hence the good environment score). Peak power and torque (153kw @6400rpm and 252 NM @ 4800rpm) arrive fairly late in the rev range so its best to use the fully manual sequential mode in the excellent Aisin six-speed auto. If you're inclined you can use the paddle shifts (we didn't).

Lexus/Toyota have gone all out to get the best possible suspension tune for local conditions, producing a relatively supple ride here without compromising the handling package. The speed-sensitive electric power steering can take some getting used to but it's a good thing.

There were some very impressive and desirable new entrants in this category this year but the depth and consistency of the new IS250 across all criteria - the critical ones especially - gave the Lexus a deserved victory.

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Best luxury 4WD

Lexus RX 350 Sports Luxury

PRICE: $84,100
3.5-litres, five-speed auto, five-door wagon

Best features:

Standard features
Smoothness and quietness
Comfort
Ergonomics

SECOND-PLACE: BMW X5 3.0d and 3.0i
THIRD-PLACE: Audi Q7 TD and V8

The Lexus RX 330 has fought its way through to win again for the fourth year in a row. It is a diverse category with prices range from $53,000 to $130,000 and contains players with big capacity V8, touquey diesels and refined petrol engines. The first time appearance of the new Audi Q7 also gave the field a shake. But the RX 350 continued to punch above its weight in all areas and ended up increasing its lead, compared to last year.

Since 2005, it has had a model upgrade with the old 3.3 litre engine replaced by the more powerful 3.5 litre V6 but the overall silky smoothness of the RX has been retained and improved. If you want a greener solution and are up for another $10,000 there is the hybrid version RX 400 which does everything the RX 350 does.

Buyers, even in a luxury market, are looking for value and the RX out gunned them all in the value for money stakes. It scored consistently on money matters with a lower price, a bright outlook on depreciation costs, competitive regular costs and a long four-year warranty.

The RX 350 standard features list was improved upon and even with a price hike of $10,000 it still won the value for money criteria. It's chocka with standard features and the DVD is bound to be a hit with kids. Lexus equips its RX350 with swag of safety features including an active light system that points around corners. There's also a rear camera that is viewed through the dash mounted screen for checking that none of the kids are hovering behind the vehicle and it also helps keep the bumper bar scratch free as the view and the superimposed parking lines help those who are used to parking by feel.

The RX 350 also dominated the design and function scores. Its layout of controls and instruments is thoughtful, the classy seats are comfortable and supportive and Lexus' long-standing reputation for quality is evident. Even last year's poor showing in the security area has improved.

It was in the on road section where the pack had any chance of gaining ground on the Lexus. Although the RX has permanent all wheel drive its 4WD ability was below average. This roomy and practical five seater likes the bitumen more than the mud and even on the bitumen all of the German vehicles out scored it in handling as the RX 350 light steering and initial body roll were a weakness. However, the elimination of noise in RX350 is still superb and its ride still ranks in the top echelon.

Best all-terrain 4WD

Land Rover Discovery 3 TDV6 SE

PRICE: $74,990
2.7-litre, six-speed automatic, five-door wagon

Best features:

Engine gearing and traction
Clearance and articulation
Standard features
Smoothness and quietness

SECOND-PLACE: Mitsubishi Pajero VRX and VRX Cdi
THIRD-PLACE: Toyota Prado GXL and GXL-D

Landrover Discovery 3 sits at the quality end of the all-terrain 4WD market offering the best list of standard features and the highest levels of safety and security in its class. And while you might lose some dollars to depreciation (it's not the most expensive in its class), you will have one of the best engineered 4WDs on the market.

The most distinctive aspects of the Discovery are its on-road handling and driving feel. This isn't just the result of good suspension geometry, but good wheel control through the full range of travel, more accurate steering than expected and adjustable air springs, all of which belie its size and weight. Discovery is also equipped with an excellent V6 diesel engine: a power plant that delivers both excellent performance and good fuel economy. The strong pulling power of the diesel is complemented by the refined six speed automatic and the driveline always feels smooth and refined.

A feature of the Discovery's 4WD system is that you can adjust the suspension to better cope with different on- and off-road conditions via a selector dial on the centre console. (There's also an electronic hill decent control button). At full suspension height the approach and departure angles, plus the overall ground clearance, will handle even the worst bush tracks while the degree of selectable suspension control means it doesn't dance around at higher speeds on corrugated roads.

The Discovery uses cabin space smartly and its clever interior design work is evident in the good seating comfort and the adult size space available in the third row seats. The rear seat folding mechanism that transforms the rear into a useable hard floor is a work of art.

Driving the Discovery is rewarding. There's a great set-up at the wheel and an entertaining array of controls and readouts that demand a bit more driver involvement than your average 4WD.

It's grown in girth over the years, weighing 2.4 tonne and like most large 4WDs it is not only less enviro-friendly but is more cumbersome to live with around shops and car parks than a conventional wagon. But if a full size 4WD is the only thing on your shopping list or towing is a prime requirement, then this is one of the best vehicles for the job.

The new Discovery 3 is a myriad of applied technology and sophisticated design. Distinctive in its presentation it has a practical and easy to live with cabin as well as more than capable off-road ability.

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