2008 International Car of the Year

A jury of automotive journalists has selected the following vehicles to receive Road & Travel Magazine's 2008 International Car of the Year (ICOTY) award, with ballots tabulated by J.D. Power and Associates.

2008 ICOTY Winners

International Car of the Year - Honda Accord Sedan

International Truck of the Year - Chrysler Town & Country

Pickup Truck of the Year, "Most Athletic" - GMC Sierra Denali

Sports Car of the Year, "Most Sex Appeal" - Audi R8

Sedan of the Year, "Most Dependable" - Honda Accord Sedan

Luxury Car of the Year, "Most Respected" - Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG

Minivan of the Year, "Most Compatible" - Chrysler Town & Country

Entry Level Car of the Year, "Most Spirited" - Volvo C30

Crossover of the Year, "Most Versatile" - Buick Enclave

SUV of the Year, "Most Resourceful" - Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid

"The ICOTY Award's unique theme focuses on the emotional connection between car and consumer, how vehicles reflect our lifestyles and self image, an attitude the average consumer can identify with," said Courtney Caldwell, ICOTY creator and Road & Travel Magazine editor-in-chief.

The concept has resonated so well with automakers that today many use the "emotional connection" theme in their advertising and marketing campaigns.

Opening remarks at the ICOTY event, held Jan. 12 at the MGM Grand Detroit, were made by Rep. John D. Dingell of Michigan, chairman of the Committee on Energy and Commerce.

Senator Carl Levin co-presented the inaugural Earth Angel Award for environmental friendliness, which went to General Motors Corp. The award was sponsored by Bridgestone.

Road & Travel recognized veteran automotive journalist Thos L. Bryant with its fifth annual Lifetime Achievement Award. Its Heart String Award recognizing the best car commercial in 2007 went to Dodge Caravan's "Rooms."

Read more about the ICOTY and other awards at RoadandTravel.com