Autoweek Editors Honor the Best of the 2011 Tokyo Motor Show

DETROIT, Dec. 5, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- The Autoweek editorial staff presented Mazda with the 2011 Autoweek Editors' Choice Award for Best in Show at the 42nd Tokyo Motor Show. The Mazda Takeri previews the evolution of the Mazda 6 sedan and earns points for both style and fuel technology in an increasingly competitive segment.

The biennial Tokyo Motor Show returned to Tokyo proper for the first time in 24 years. This year's theme, "Mobility can change the world," set the tone as Tokyo seeks to be the world's leading technology motor show. Autoweek editors saw green technology and fuel efficiency take center stage on the stands of most automakers at the Tokyo Big Sight convention center, the new venue for 2011. Japanese automakers pulled out all the stops for their home show, sweeping all four categories in this year's awards.

The Autoweek Editors' Choice Award winners for the best of the 2011 Tokyo Motor Show are:

BEST IN SHOW: Mazda Takeri

"The Takeri blends striking style with diesel technology to make a compelling case for the future of Mazda," Autoweek news editor Greg Migliore said. There were other contenders making noise this year, but ultimately the Takeri made itself heard over the din of its competitors. "The curves, the grille, the headlights—they all speak to us, and auto enthusiasts, in a strong manner."

BEST CONCEPT: Nissan Juke Nismo

The Nismo team added a custom aero kit to the Juke concept and massaged the 1.6-liter turbocharged engine. On the inside, the slick new interior—including a distinctive steering wheel, gauges and door trim—provides greater driving involvement. For now, Nissan says that the Nismo is just a concept. "If there's one concept at the Tokyo show we'd like to see in production, this is it," Autoweek editor Wes Raynal said. 

MOST SIGNIFICANT: Subaru BRZ

"I argued that the BRZ should be Most Significant, since it represents a return to the inexpensive, fun, front-engine, rear-drive sports car for which I have been clamoring for years," said Autoweek senior editor-West Coast Mark Vaughn. "The rest of the staff agreed, and Subaru's hard work paid off handsomely in this modern speedster."

MOST FUN: Honda EV-ster

"The most fun car is always a topic of heated debate at auto shows, and we came to the conclusion that the Honda EV-ster's open-air cockpit and electric propulsion would make for a very enjoyable experience driving home from the show," Migliore said. According to Honda, the car is meant to deliver both sport and pleasure, and it does just that. "This car is quick, looks sharp and it signals potential for the sports cars of the future."

The Dec. 26 issue of Autoweek magazine will feature a full report from the show in Tokyo. For more information on the Editors' Choice Awards, past winners and for extensive Tokyo motor show coverage, visit autoweek.com/autoshows.

Autoweek, launched in 1958, based in Detroit, Mich., and published by Crain Communications Inc., is a fortnightly magazine of consumer car news, information and insight. It's also delivered via the Internet (autoweek.com) and the iPad, and through video and social media. The autoweek.com site includes Daily Drive, an e-mail newsletter sent to more than 100,000 registrants; Car Life, a social community, and Autoweek TV, a daily video newscast. The Autoweek iPhone app Car News & Reviews is the first free app built for serious enthusiasts. From a magazine to video, online, podcasts, events, mobile applications and social media, Autoweek is a must have for those who live the automotive lifestyle. Follow Autoweek on Facebook (facebook.com/autoweekusa) and Twitter (@autoweekUSA).

SOURCE Autoweek