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Ninety-nine vehicles endured a harsh trial on shared roads, with only the robust prevailing.

Automotive industry heavyweights convene for their annual showcase. Our insights from a day spent at Car and Driver's bi-weekly road test event.

Ninety-nine Automobiles Fought Ferociously Along the Same Stretches in a Rigorous Trial. Only the...
Ninety-nine Automobiles Fought Ferociously Along the Same Stretches in a Rigorous Trial. Only the Most Robust Endured.

Ninety-nine vehicles endured a harsh trial on shared roads, with only the robust prevailing.

The anticipation is building as the prestigious 10Best awards from Car and Driver magazine are set to be unveiled in the January/February issue of their print publication. This annual event recognises the best vehicles in three categories: cars, trucks, and SUVs.

Behind the scenes, a significant logistical achievement is underway. To test such a large number of vehicles, Car and Driver relies on the help of middlemen who manage multiple fleets of vehicles across the country. Companies like Driveshop and North American Vehicle Services play a crucial role in this process, ensuring that the team has access to a diverse range of vehicles.

The evaluation process is rigorous, with every vehicle being scored by all editors. The highest and lowest scores are discarded to ensure a fair and unbiased selection. This year, the team considered no less than 99 vehicles, spending two weeks compiling their opinions.

One of the key figures in this year's 10Best evaluation is Matt Crisara, a native Austinite with a passion for cars and motorsports. With a background in writing for Motor1, internships at Circuit Of The Americas F1 Track and Speed City, and a bachelor's degree from the University of Arizona School of Journalism, Crisara brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table.

In addition to his love for cars, Crisara enjoys sim-racing, FPV drones, and the great outdoors in his spare time. His enthusiasm for the automotive industry is evident in his work, making him a valuable asset to the Car and Driver team.

The vehicles are evaluated based on three key factors: value, mission fulfillment, and driving experience. These criteria ensure that the winners are not only high-performing vehicles but also offer excellent value for money and meet the needs of their intended users.

Once the two weeks of testing are complete, the editorial team begins a considerable amount of work before the results can be published. Editors use notepads left in vehicles to jot down their thoughts after a test, providing valuable insights that help shape the final decisions.

Stay tuned for the upcoming January/February issue of Car and Driver to find out which vehicles have made the cut for this year's 10Best awards. It's sure to be an exciting reveal!

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