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 of materials, packaging, dynamics, styling, and fuel consumption.
2. Significance
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.
The Judges
Neil Chirico
Road test editor, Motor Trend and Truck Trend
Allyson Harwood
Associate editor, Motor Trend and Truck Trend
Ron Kiino
Senior editor, Motor Trend
Todd Lassa
Detroit editor, Motor Trend
Angus MacKenzie
Editor-in-chief, Motor Trend
Frank Markus
Technical editor, Motor Trend
Matt Stone
Executive editor, Motor Trend
Mark Williams
Editor, Truck Trend