<< All contenders are then evaluated on three separate courses at a professional automotive test center before finalists are selected. Out of 22 contending 2014 models, Motor Trend's judges picked seven Car of the Year finalists, in addition to the Cadillac CTS: BMW 4 Series Chevrolet Corvette Jaguar F-Type Kia Forte Mazda3 Mazda6 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Each finalist is then driven on a real-world road loop that provides a range of surfaces and traffic conditions to evaluate ride and handling, engine and transmission smoothness and responsiveness, wind and road noise, and ergonomics. In the final phase of Car of the Year, Motor Trend judges debate and evaluate each vehicle against the awards six key criteria: Design Advancement - well-executed exterior and interior styling; innovative vehicle packaging; good selection and use of materials. Engineering Excellence - total vehicle concept and execution; clever solutions to packaging, manufacturing and dynamics >>