As the year comes to an end, various groups and organizations come up and make lists of those innovative and more than the usual type of contributions in various fields. For example, one auto parts enthusiasts could be giving a store an award for being the dealer of the best Ford Ranchero parts for the year. On the same note, Automobile Magazine, whose web site can be accessed through www.automobilemag.com, has also prepared and announced its set of awardees for its 2007 awards.



According to the editors of the mentioned magazine, they had selected the awardees with a couple of criteria in mind. The list does include a very good combination of the best type of innovation, futuristic thinking, achievement, as well as professionalism in the auto field. The winners of the four major awards would be found in the magazine's February 2007 issue. These would be available come the 9th of January.

The 2007 Automobile of the Year was awarded to the Volkswagen GTI. Gavin Conway, the editor in chief of the magazine, says, ?Our editorial team was unanimous in its decision that the Volkswagen GTI deserved this honor. The latest GTI marks a return to form by Volkswagen, with a car that gives enthusiasts a great driving experience without sacrificing practicality, affordability and fuel efficiency. This is the performance car for a new generation of enthusiasts.?

On the design of the year award, Conway does share, ?Without question, the V8 Vantage is the best Aston Martin ever produced. It is a hallmark of great design and arguably the best looking car manufactured in the last couple of decades. Apart from its aesthetic appeal, the Vantage was selected for combining great looks with an outstanding driving experience.? Yes, it was the Aston Martin V8 Vantage that took home the award.

Automobile magazine also gave out the Man of the Year award and they selected Roger Penske for being an icon in the field. Conway relates, ?In selecting Roger Penske, we are not only celebrating his career accomplishments, but acknowledging that his impact will be felt within and outside of the automotive industry for years to come.?

The ESC took home the Technology of the Year recognition, which, as Conway describes, ?Earlier ESC systems seemed heavy-handed and took away from the driving experience. But even the most demanding drivers on our staff agreed that this year's Technology of the Year did not interfere with the dynamic rewards of spirited driving.?