2011 Audi A7

2011 Audi A7

While we all like to go on about horsepower or differentials or suspension arms when discussing new cars, we often overlook the place where you and your car spend the most time together--inside the cabin.

In order to recognize this aspect of vehicle development, Ward’s Auto releases a list every year for the ten best car interiors covering a number of different vehicle segments and categories.

The vehicles--both cars and trucks--are divided into segments, with one winner named in each category.

After driving the vehicles over a two month period, judges evaluate them during their daily driving cycles and award points for design, material selection, fit-and-finish, ergonomics, driver information, safety, value and comfort.

Surprisingly, this year, only three luxury brands made the list from a field of 40 new models with new or significantly improved interiors. They were the Audi A7 (pictured above), Infiniti JX35 and Land Rover Range Rover Evoque.

Chrysler's 300 ‘Luxury’ (pictured below) is another premium vehicle on the list worth mentioning, especially considering the American automaker’s reputation for quality not that long ago and the gains it’s made since then, albeit with some help from Fiat.

2012 Chrysler 300 Luxury Series

2012 Chrysler 300 Luxury Series

This year’s winners in alphabetical order are listed below, together with their lowest as-tested pricing:

Audi A7 ($67,430)
Chevrolet Sonic ($18,745)
Chrysler 300 Luxury ($44,855)
Dodge Dart ($21,485)
Hyundai Accent ($15,925)
Hyundai Azera ($36,875)
Infiniti JX35 ($54,800)
Mazda CX-5 ($30,415)
Range Rover Evoque ($49,745)
Volkswagen Beetle ($25,195)