THE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY, whatever the country it may be, is run by the sales of compact sedans, pick-ups and people carriers.  The numerous Toyota Vios’ and Honda Citys running around are what give the car companies the lion share of the market.  That said, although these vehicles are runaway sales hits, they are not the truly desirable ones—the car that people actually dream of owning and driving one day; the type of car that carries the most powerful and affluent people of society.  These are reserved for the Executive and Luxury Sedans, touches of luxury on four wheels.  It is these vehicles that CoTY – Philippines that put to the test in the recently concluded Test Fest in Eagleridge Country Club in Cavite.

Like before, each of these vehicles were subjected to the same level of quantitative tests: acceleration, braking, interior noise levels—all that would translate to important real-world values.  Beyond the mere figures though, things such as ergonomics, build quality, space, handling—items that would actually make or break a purchase were also put to the test.  With such a huge price variance in this group, the CoTY group decided to split this category into three: Best Executive Sedan (up to P1,800,000), Best Luxury Sedan (up to P5,000,000) and Ultra-Luxury Sedan (above P5,000,000).

Hyundai Sonata GLS (P 1,087,000)

Being the most affordable car in this line-up doesn’t mean cheap.  The Hyundai Sonata GLS is truly one globally competitive car.  Although the odd-ball looks may sound Korean, it’s well-built, roomy and nicely equipped for the price.  The Mitsubishi-sourced engine may not be the most refined engine on the planet, but Hyundai did it best by equipping the Sonata with a 4-speed automatic with manual shift override.

Mazda 6 (P 1,105,000)

The perfect long-distance driving companion, the Mazda6 is the first car to be designed under the ‘Zoom-Zoom’ corporate philosophy.  Its sublime chassis produces class-leading handling without sacrificing a comfortable ride—something expected in this class.  The compact, sporty exterior hides an excellent finished, roomy cabin.  The 131-bhp engine is a tad underpowered, but it manages well with its responsive 4-speed automatic.

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