The Toronto Star Published:

Toronto – The contenders in this category are the Chevrolet Malibu LT, Dodge Avenger R/T, Honda Accord EX, Kia Rondo, Saturn Aura Green Line Hybrid and Subaru Impreza Wagon.

This proved to be a very tough category as each car has a lot going for it.

In third place is the Kia Rondo. It has more utility, space and flexibility than anything else here. It is also the most affordable. The seven-seat configuration holds the advertised number of riders - no, not for a long trip. With the third row flat,it swallows a family of four’s luggage with ease. The 2.7- litre V6 delivers the power needed to tote the passengers without bogging down, and it handles predictably - understeer and body roll are surprisingly well controlled.

The Dodge Avenger earns an honourable mention as it brings spirited handling and creditable performance. It missed the boat by the smallest of margins.

The Honda Accord EX plays bridesmaid. I like the newfound size, especially the bit allotted to the rear seat - it is now limo-like in its proportions. However, the handling moves from the old car’s crisp to something best described as feeling a little ponderous when the speeds are elevated. As for power, the Accord succeeds with the V6, but it feels rather windy when equipped with the 190- horsepower four-cylinder entered here. The centre stack is also too busy for its (and the owner’s) own good.

The winner of this category has a legitimate shot at overall Car of the Year. (Gulp! Two GMs.) The Chevrolet Malibu sets a high standard for the price. There is plenty of space, a very nicely finished cabin (it looks more Japanese than GM), the best electronic traction control system around and a broad array of engines. With the 3.6L V6 and six-speed manumatic under the hood, it doesn’t have to take a back seat to anything in the class. How times have changed!