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FLEET VEHICLE OF THE YEAR

You may only vote once for each.

Nominations for the 2009 Fleet Vehicle of the Year awards appear below. Voting is open to professional fleet managers only.

Please vote for one (1) Fleet Car of the Year and one (1) Fleet Truck of the Year.

Balloting closes October 15. The winning vehicles will be announced in the December 2008 issue of Automotive Fleet.


1. Cars
Audi has freshened, enlarged, and re-engineered the A4 series, including a new 2.0L turbocharged engine and considerable restyling. The new engine offers 30 more horsepower than the previous model, with improved fuel economy.
The A6 was all new for 2006, with new engines and a new 6-speed transmission. The V-6 model is offered in both Avant (wagon) and sedan models; the V-8 comes as a sedan only.
The 5-Series, the middle size of BMW's sedan lines, was completely redesigned for 2005 and for 2006 added all-wheel-drive models. Six-cylinder and V-8 power are available.
The LaCrosse replaced both the Regal and the Century in the Buick line. It offers contemporary ride and handling with more comfort. Basic and high performance versions are offered.
The Lucerne replaced the Park Avenue at the top of the Buick line. It is the first Buick in many years to offer V-8 power in its sportiest version.
Cadillac launched an all-new CTS for the 2008 model-year. The new model features an available direct-injection V-6 that improves both performance and economy.
Cadillac considerably freshened the DeVille for 2006 and rebadged it as the DTS. A lighter, brighter interior, improved handling, and restyled front and rear fascias were included in the upgrade.
Cobalt replaced the Cavalier. The new car offers more quality, performance, handling, comfort, and style.
The Equinox offers independent suspension and disc brakes all around, plus V-6 power. A split, folding and sliding rear seat allows flexibility in cargo and passenger arrangements.
HHR stands for Heritage High Roof. The compact wagon takes its styling cues from Suburbans of the ‘40s. It offers a flexible interior and the advantages of the international architecture of the Cobalt. A panel van version is offered.
Impala was restyled and upgraded for 2006. It offers optional V-8 power as well as increased space and comfort, and exemplifies the new direction for the “big American car.”
The new Malibu keeps only the name from the previous model. Built on GM's Epsilon architecture, it offers GM's new DOHC V-6 and six-speed automatic. The 6-speed is available with the I-4 engine for even better fuel economy and a hybrid version is offered as well.
The Traverse is a crossover vehicle that shares the architecture of the Buick Enclave and Saturn Outlook. It seats up to eight passengers and uses V-6 power.
The Chrysler 300 marked a revolution in large U.S. sedans, with rear-wheel drive and exceptional handling. It is also available with all-wheel-drive. A high performance SRT-8 option and an extended wheelbase version are also offered.
The first Chrysler-badged SUV takes many of its design cues from the successful Dodge Durango and adds Chrysler luxury and style. Power comes from a choice of V-8 engines, including the Hemi. A two-mode hybrid version is now available.
Chrysler's mid-size sedan, Sebring, was all-new for 2007. It offers four- or six-cylinder power, and a 4.0L V-6 in top-of-the-line models.
Avenger replaces the Stratus as the mid-sized vehicle in the Dodge lineup. It offers four- or six-cylinder power and a new 4.0L V-6 in top-of-the-line models.
Replacing the Neon in the Dodge lineup, the Caliber offers five-door versatility plus a choice of three advanced four-cylinder engines and sophisticated suspension.
Dodge has brought back an historic nameplate with the Charger. Special fleet versions are in the lineup, including a police cruiser. An SRT-8 option offers the performance of the historic Charger.
Durango is Dodge's take on the full-sized SUV. It offers a choice of V-6 or two V-8 engines, including a Hemi. A two-mode hybrid version is also now available.
New for 2007, Nitro marks Dodge's entry into the mid-size SUV segment. It offers all-wheel drive, two choices of V-6 engines, and three transmissions.
Ford's full-sized, body-on-frame sedan carries over with only detail changes. Both standard and six-inch stretch wheelbase models are offered to fleet customers only.
Edge is Ford's entry into the compact crossover segment, part compact station wagon, part compact SUV. V-6 power and optional all-wheel drive give it good road manners as well.
The Escape compact SUV offers four-cylinder or V-6 engines. The Escape Hybrid includes all the upgrades offered on the regular Escape, and can run on its electric motor in heavy traffic.
The new seven-seat Flex wagon can tow up to 4,500 lbs. It uses 3.5L V-6 power and is based on the Taurus architecture. It has been given high marks for style, comfort, and economy.
Ford's Focus was completely redesigned for 2008. It is now offered in two body styles, sedan and coupe, and is the highest-mileage car offered by Ford.
Fusion is Ford's entry in the compact class. It provides excellent performance and fine handling in a roomy package. It is offered with all-wheel drive as well as front-wheel drive. For 2009, a hybrid version will be available.
Ford's new Taurus offers front- or all-wheel-drive, plenty of power from a 3.5L V-6, a roomy cabin, and a platform designed with European input. Its interior design has been highly praised.
Taurus X replaced the Freestyle as a mid-size crossover vehicle, combining the driving feel of a sedan with the capabilities of an SUV. It offers optional all-wheel drive and eight-passenger seating.
Yukon is GMC's full-size SUV. It is offered in standard and XL versions. The XL, on an extended wheelbase, can seat up to nine passengers. A two-mode hybrid model is also offered.
Still smooth, reliable, and economical, Honda's Accord sedan is all new and larger for 2008. Both four- and six-cylinder power plants are offered.
Civic was all-new for the 2006 model-year, larger and more comfortable than before. The hybrid model achieves EPA mileage ratings in the 45–50 mpg range. It gets an upgrade for 2009.
The Sonata was the turning point for Hyundai with a solid, smooth, reliable car. Hyundai's lengthy warranty coupled with an upscale interior makes this vehicle worth looking at. The model was all-new for 2006 and is considerably freshened for 2009.
Jeep moves into the compact SUV segment with Compass. Offered in front- and all-wheel drive versions, it is powered by Chrysler's new World Engine.
Lexus' smooth IS 300 was replaced for 2006 with the IS 250 and IS 350, featuring higher performance and better fuel economy. An all-wheel-drive version of the IS 250 is offered as well.
MKS is Lincoln's latest offering in the luxury sedan segment. It has a 3.7L DOHC V-6 with a 6-speed automatic and optional all-wheel drive.
The MKX is Lincoln's entry into the luxury crossover segment. It has a 3.5L DOHC V-6 with a 6-speed automatic and optional all-wheel drive.
Lincoln entered the luxury compact field with the 2006 Zephyr, re-named MKZ in 2007. Style and comfort, along with fuel economy, are its hallmarks.
The Mazda CX-7 is a compact crossover vehicle that combines sporty handling with carrying capacity. It is powered by a turbo-charged 2.3L I-4, driving the front or all wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission.
CX-9 is a seven-passenger crossover with a 250 horsepower DOHC V-6 under the hood. It drives through a 6-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive is optional. Access to third-row seating has been made especially easy.
Mazda3 offers exceptional ride and handling in a compact sedan. A five-door hatchback is also available. It meets Partial Zero emissions (PZEV) standards and offers excellent fuel economy.
The Mazda5 was an all-new for 2006 crossover vehicle combining the characteristics of an SUV and a minivan. It offers sporty handling and good carrying capacity.
Mazda6 is all-new for 2009. It challenges other vehicles in its class with handling, performance, and comfort. Its capable platform features independent suspension all around and available V-6 power.
The C Class, the entry-level model for Mercedes, is all new for 2008. It is offered with a choice of V-6 engines, and, in the C55, a powerful V-8.
Grand Marquis, Mercury's full-size sedan, received freshened styling and detail improvements for the 2007 model-year.
Using a combination of gasoline and electric power, the Mariner Hybrid achieves an EPA rating of 32 mpg in the city, while offering performance comparable to its V-6 powered siblings. Styling and drivetrain were updated for 2008.
Mercury Milan offers a high level of trim and comfort in a compact sedan. Its 2.3L engine provides both fuel economy and performance.
Mercury's Montego provides all the comforts of a full-size car in a package that is smaller on the outside. It is offered in front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive versions.
The Galant offers style and comfort in a reasonably priced mid-size car. It has been praised in the consumer press for its smoothness and reliability.
Nissan's Altima was all-new for 2007. It offers value, space, and performance in a mid-size car. Its four-cylinder engine is the most powerful in the class.
Maxima received a complete reworking for 2008-09. Fulfilling the performance/luxury areas of the Nissan mid-size range, it is offered with a powerful V-6 and numerous upgrade options.
Pontiac's G5 is a premium entry-level coupe, available with a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission. A choice of two Ecotec I-4 engines is offered.
The G6 is a mid-size model, offering style and performance. It rides on GM's European-derived Epsilon architecture, and is available with four- or six-cylinder power, as well as in coupe and convertible variants.
The G8 is the top vehicle in the Pontiac lineup. It is rear-wheel drive, offered with a smooth V-6 or a potent 6.0L V-8 under the hood.
Grand Prix combines a roomy FWD sedan with a sporty driving feel. Power is from V-6 or an optional V-8 engine, and disc brakes at each wheel provide stopping power.
The 9-3 has been extensively restyled for 2008. It offers turbo power and European-style luxury in a mid-sized sedan and wagon. It is based on GM's international Epsilon platform and powered by a choice of turbocharged I-4 or V-6 engines.
Saab's top sedan and wagon get a high performance turbocharged V-6. The 9-5 has been praised for providing high comfort along with high performance.
The Astra is an all-new model based on European technology. It is offered with a DOHC I-4 engine and in two body styles: four-door or three-door hatchback.
The Aura is an all-new sedan based on European technology. It is offered with a choice of I-4 or V-6 engines and is available with GM's new 6-speed HydraMatic transmission. A greenline mild hybrid version is also in the lineup.
Subaru's small SUV is all-new for the 2009 model-year. It features a flexible, comfortable interior, and, as with all Subarus, full-time all-wheel drive.
Legacy was all-new for 2005, with new styling and the option of a powerful turbocharged engine. It carries on into 2008 with the addition of a six-cylinder model to the top of the line. All-wheel drive is standard on all Subarus.
Subaru's crossover vehicle, the Outback, offers standard all-wheel-drive and an optional turbocharged engine. High ground clearance provides extended capability over rough roads or trails.
After years of offering AWD station wagons, Subaru has added a true SUV to its lineup. An H-6 engine, AWD, and seating for up to seven passengers are included in its features. It has been restyled and given more power for 2008.
Avalon, the largest model in the Toyota lineup, was all-new for 2005 and continues with detail changes. It offers V-6 power and is offered in luxury and sporty configurations.
Solid performance and reliability are the hallmarks of the Camry, which was all new for the 2007 model-year. Offered are four- or six-cylinder power and several trim levels. A hybrid version of the Camry features performance similar to that of a V-6 equipped model, with fuel economy better than the standard four-cylinder.
Corolla is Toyota's compact model. An all-new model has been launched, offering more interior space and comfort, along with increased fuel economy.
Prius remains at the forefront of the hybrid movement. Roomy, ultra-economical, and reliable, it continues on into the 2008 model-year substantially unchanged.
Yaris has replaced the Echo in the Toyota lineup. Offered in three- and four-door models, it provides high fuel economy along with good reliability.
Volkswagen launched the new Jetta as a 2005-model. Powered by a smooth inline five-cylinder engine, it has been considerably upgraded, and now provides a diesel version that offers better than 40 miles per gallon.
An all-new Passat was launched for 2006. It is larger and more luxurious than the model it replaces, with the top engine a 280 horsepower V-6.
Volvo's entry-level S40 was all-new for 2005, on a new platform and with powerful engines. Style, handling, power, and overall comfort are some of the benefits of the new design that continues into 2008 with detail changes.
Volvo's mid-line models offer style, varying power levels, and excellent handling. An all-wheel-drive version is available as well.
The V70 wagon received extensive styling, equipment, and performance upgrades for the 2005 model-year, and carries on into 2008 with detail changes.
   


2. Trucks
Colorado, all-new for 2004, received important changes for 2007. Its high-tech I-4 and I-5 engines have been boosted in horsepower to rival competitive V-6 and V-8 engines. It continues into 2008 basically unchanged.
These full-size vans have been upgraded with stability control, making it easier for less-experienced drivers to operate them safely. Cutaway and diesel models are available, and a flex-fuel option is offered with the 5.3L V-8 engine.
Only the name is the same. Silverado was reborn on the GMT900 architecture for the 2007 model-year. It offers V-6 and V-8 engines, with flex-fuel capability available. A two-mode hybrid model is now available.
Tahoe, Chevrolet's full-size SUV, received a number of updates for the 2008 model-year. A two-mode hybrid version is offered that produces a considerable improvement in fuel mileage.
The Town & Country minivan was all new for 2008, with an available new 4.0L engine, 6-speed transmission, and unique folding seats that allow a flat cargo floor.
Dakota was all-new for 2005, with V-8 power as an option and rear seating on every model. It continues into 2008 with detail changes. Cabs are available in two- or four-door style.
The Grand Caravan minivan was redesigned for 2008, with an available new 4.0L engine, 6-speed transmission, and unique folding seats that allow a flat cargo floor. Both passenger and cargo versions are available.
Ram 1500 is all-new for the 2009 model-year. The new version features a new suspension for a better unladen ride, and an upgraded interior that points a new direction for Chrysler products.
In the Mega Cab models, offered on 1500, 2500, and 3500 series, Dodge has optimized interior space availability. Up to six passengers can be carried in comfort or plenty of lockable storage is available.
Sprinter is offered in cargo, passenger, and chassis-cab models. Diesel power is standard, and three wheelbases and three roof heights allow configuration for any need. For 2008, it has been given more space, more power, and an optional gasoline engine.
Ford's popular full-size van continues into the 2008 model-year with changes to front suspension and freshened styling. Stability control enables less-experienced drivers to handle the largest capacity models. Cutaway and bare-chassis models are available.
Ford has restyled its large SUV and added an extended length (EL) model to the lineup. The added space means that even with eight passengers aboard, there is still good cargo capacity.
The F-150 is all-new for the 2009 model-year. The new truck features better power and economy as well as an upgraded interior. With the wide variety of power plants, trim levels, and options, the F-150 can be tailored to suit the job.
Ford's popular Ranger continued into 2008 with detail changes.
Sierra is offered with V-6 or V-8 power. The optional 5.3L V-8 is a flex-fuel engine. A two-mode hybrid version of the 1500 is now available in the lineup.
Honda's Ridgeline has provided a new look at what an all-wheel-drive pickup should be. Plenty of power, good off-road capability, and even lockable storage under the bed.
Only detail changes differentiate the latest models of the popular Mazda compact truck series.
Frontier was reworked for the 2005 model-year, with more power and more capacity as part of the benefits. It continues basically unchanged.
Titan, built in Mississippi, offers both King- and Crew-Cab models and lots of power. Nissan took careful aim at the large pickup market in the U.S. It was freshened for the 2008 model-year.
Toyota completely updated the Tacoma to a mid-size model for 2005. It is larger, more capable, and more powerful than the model it replaces, and continues into 2008 with detail changes.
Tundra was all-new for 2008, larger, with a new 5.7L V-8, short- and long-bed models, Single-, Extended- and Crew-Cab styling and rear- or all-wheel drive.




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