Auto writers select top 2010 cars

JIM KENZIE FOR THE TORONTO STAR

The Automobile Journalists' Association of Canada has selected the Mazda3 as the best 2010 small car (under $21,000).

NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE—After three days of back-to-back testing, the Automobile Journalists' Association of Canada announced Friday the winners of Best 2010 Vehicle in 12 categories.

Eligible vehicles must be new or substantially revised vehicles for the 2010 model year.

Each category winner is now eligible for the title of either AJAC Car of the Year or Utilility Vehicle of the Year, which will be awarded at the Toronto auto show next February.

Category winners are:

Small car (under $21,000) — Mazda3

Small car (over $21,000) — Mazda3 Sport

Family car (under $30,000) — Volkswagen Golf Wagon TDI

Family car (over $30,000) — Ford Taurus

Luxury car (over $50,000) — BMW 335d Sedan

Prestige car (over $75,000) — Porsche Panamera Turbo

Sports/performance (under $50,000) — Volkswagen GTI

Sports/performance (over $50,000) — Audi S4

Best new convertible — Audi A5 Cabriolet

Best new SUV/CUV (under $35,000) — Subaru Outback

Best new SUV/CUV ($35,000 to $60,000) — Volkswagen Touareg TDI Clean Diesel