Digital Trends announced its overall favorite automobiles for 2016, drawing on driving experiences from 15 different models and with input from NFL superstar Marshawn Lynch and Tim Walbridge of 503 Motoring.  Celebrating the best vehicles with a 2016 model-year or on-sale date, the staff narrowed the field to just five categories – Cars, Alternative Energy, SUVs, Luxury Models and Performance Models – and selected the best wheels for a variety of consumers who enjoy the rumble of the road.

“Our testing and judging procedure is focused on technological advancements within the automotive industry as well as the overall drive experience for the consumer,” said Jeremy Kaplan, Editor in Chief, DigitalTrends.com.  “With an enthusiastic team of auto writers, and the opportunity to put these vehicles through the paces on the streets and on the track in our home base in the Pacific Northwest, we’ve curated the best selection of automobiles for any occasion. Coupled with support and input from NFL All-Pro running back and automotive enthusiast, Marshawn Lynch, the 2016 Digital Trends Car Awards are our most exciting yet.”

2016 Car Awards Category: Daily Driver

Arguably the broadest category, the “Cars” category honors models with the best overall value for consumers seeking an approachable and reliable vehicle, without sacrificing style and individuality.

Carrying a legacy that spans more than 40 years, the venerable Honda Civic is recognized for daily functionality and sporty enthusiasm. With a new re-design for model-year 2016, the Civic Coupe takes the prize for being the most approachable daily driver without skimping on style.

2016 Car Awards Category: Alternative Energy

Highlighting vehicles that go beyond traditional petroleum fuels and leverage the most modern energy technologies, the Alternative Energy category celebrates vehicles that save drivers at the pump and run the gamut from gas-electric hybrids to plug-in models.

The 2016 Chevrolet Volt ushers in a new generation of American eco-conscious vehicles.  With its understated looks, increased driving range and improved lightness and handling, the Volt cruised away with fuel-conscious fanfare.

2016 Car Award Category: SUVs

In a segment typically dominated by supersized models, the SUVs tested centered upon their versatility on and off the road, and their ability to provide an enjoyable experience for drivers and passengers alike.

With a storied history of safety and sensibility, the 2016 Volvo VX-90 won our hearts with its unique approach to this conventional segment of vehicles. Sporting a laundry-list of technology appointments, as well as a 400hp supercharged and turbocharged two-liter engine that’s also backed by an electric motor, the XC-90 stunned us with its experience on the road and in the cabin.

2016 Car Award Category: Luxury

With a host of brand loyalists seeking a satisfying road experience that also doubles as a status symbol, the Luxury category focused on appointments as well as an overall ride.

A stalwart in the luxury category, Cadillac has undergone a transformation in recent years.  While the muscle-bound CTS-V caters to the adrenaline seekers, the new CT6 flagship adds a hint of sensibility with improved design, technology enhancements like haptic feedback and an integrated rear camera mirror, and a comfortable smooth ride.

2016 Car Award Category: Performance

What would a round-up of automobiles be without the baddest and brawniest of the bunch?  The Performance category honors models that set the tone and serve as pinnacle examples of strength, speed and agility.

The quintessential sports car of American lore, the 2016 Ford Shelby GT350R impressed the editorial team not only with its looks and powerful engine, but also with its enjoyable when allowed to hit the open road.  A true joy on the circuit, the Shelby GT350R may have lacked some amenities on the interior, but stole our hearts all the way to the finish line.

“As an athlete, I know that it takes more than sheer power to win the prize.  You have to have finesse, refinement and know when certain sacrifices will benefit the end goal,” said Marshawn Lynch, former running back for the Seattle Seahawks and Digital Trends 2016 Car Awards contributor. “It was a pleasure to be a part of this process, and I can’t wait to get behind the wheel of some of these cars again soon.”

For more information on Digital Trends’ top automotive picks for 2016, please visit http://www.digitaltrends.com/cars/2016-car-awards/

About Digital Trends

Digital Trends is a leading consumer technology publisher helping people navigate an increasingly digital world. With easy-to-understand product reviews, entertaining news and videos, Digital Trends serves more than 24 million unique visitors each month. Digital Trends reaches 90 million tech influencers through their own media network, and its syndicate partners include Yahoo!, FOX News and more than 200 broadcast news stations. Digital Trends is headquartered in Portland, OR with offices in New York City, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Detroit, and Chicago. For more information, visit www.digitaltrends.com.

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