Web2Carz 2011 Automobile Awards

Best Designed Car of 2011

2011 Jaguar XJ
MSRP: $73,000

Brief: Redesigned in 2010 to recapture a market that has dwindled, the XJ is a luxury car with sporty appeal. For those who can afford it, they will get a lot for the price--impeccable eye-catching exterior styling, tasteful interior luxury, and a nimble agility behind the wheel. Jaguar did something wonderful this year, and the XJ is just it.

Pros: Well-crafted interior, stylistic body shape, incredible engines and drive-train, superb agility for a luxury vehicle.

Cons: No all-wheel drive, underdeveloped touchscreen and media tech, less interior room than more affordable models in its class.

Best Performance Car of 2011

Brief: The 2011 Corvette is the best performance car bargain, offering incredible handling, acceleration, breaking and steering at a reasonable price.

Pros: Best price for most performance, excellent safety standards, tight handling, adrenaline-pumping pedal pusher.

Cons: Interior is notably subpar compared to other performance cars in its class.

Best Family Car of 2011

Brief: Totally redesigned for 2011, the new Ford Explorer has been upgraded all around. Better fuel economy, better interior quality, advance tech and the latest safety features make it a great choice for a family car.

Pros: Great driveability, surprising fuel economy, astounding interior quality compared to past years, and a gobsmacking tech features for the new century.

Cons: Third-row seating cramped, and less cargo area than other SUVs.

Most Innovative Car of 2011

Brief: First zero-emissions fully electric vehicle to be mass-produced in the U.S(well that is not true, but we like the sound of it). Nissan may have gone out on a limb, and has taken a chance with the no-gas LEAF in a market that demands "extended range" offered by hybrid vehicles. Nonetheless, the toated 100-mile per charge range has raised brows, and makes the LEaf the most innovative car of 2011.

Pros: No gas required. Interior tech is undoubtedly futuristic, and innovative itself. Top safety Pick, and it does not look that bad for a full electric vehicle.

Cons: Lacks performance found in gas-powered compact competitors. 100 mile range may also be a negative to some.

Safest Car of 2011

Brief: Safety is the most important consideration to a majority of consumers. The heavier a car, typically; the better it absorbs impact, and the higher the the safety rating. The 2011 Cadillac CTS is a bulky lifeboat with a decent price-tag, and sits near the top of the IIHS safety list. Safety features include, Front and rear head airbags, Dual front side-mounted airbags, child seat anchors, emergency braking assist, stability and traction control, all around ABS, and even passenger airbag occupant sensing deactivation.

Pros: Incredible performance vibe, one of a kind exterior look, and notable handling.

Cons: Fuel economy subpar, front seats described as lacking support and uncomfortable.