Ford Falcon wins Carsguide People’s Choice Award for second year in a row

More than 17,000 Carsguide readers have voted the Ford Falcon as Australia’s best car for the second year running.

After the polls closed on Wednesday this week, the Falcon narrowly beat Holden Special Vehicles GTS into second place – just 202 votes separated the top two places.

Further back in the field, the margin for third place was even slimmer with the Audi A6 TDI beating the Mazda 3 by 104 votes, with fourth placed Nissan GTR just 165 votes behind the Mazda.

The full top 10 is - 1. Ford Falcon G6 2. HSV GTS 3. Audi A6 TDI 4. Mazda3 5. Nissan GTR 6. Subaru Liberty 7. BMW X5 8. Holden Commodore SIDI 9. Hyundai i30 10. Ford Fiesta

Carsguide.com.au’s online editor, Karla Pincott, said “The seventh generation of Ford Falcon has clearly impressed the Australian public over the past couple of years.

The new look, improved performance and better fuel economy add up to a very compelling package. “However, the vote was very close. The eagerly awaited E Series II GTS did not disappoint HSV fans, with its twin bonnet scoops, and increased power.”

Reader comments about the Falcon included – “It does the job of all the others, has a 5 star safety rating and is equally at home in the city or outback.”

“Great handling car, comfortable and plenty of room for the family at a good price.” “Good looks, superior handling, performance and braking, and most important---Australian made.”

The public also voted for their favourite car in five specific categories. The winners, and some of the reader comments about them were -

Family – Holden Commodore SIDI “Aussie icon, big bang for the buck and just looks mean.”

“Just because I want one, looks the part , sounds the part, would look good in my garage.” “Classic Aussie muscle with the looks of a Euro star car. Simply Superb.”

Prestige – Audi A6 TDI “Owning this car would increase my land rates.”

“Stylish, performer, safe, value for money.”

“A great mix of style, looks, performance and sophistication.”

Commercial – Toyota Hilux “Good value. It is Tough , looks great, handles well, Roomy, Quiet, goes just about anywhere and tows.”

“Purchase and maintenance affordable, used as a family or work car, suitable for towing boats or car.”

First Car – Ford Fiesta “Such an awesome car. Great value, looks great, one to consider even when your budget exceeds it by $”

“Styling and economy. A great little car at an affordable price”

“Funky styling, great economy.enough room for friends or family and everyone can afford one.”

SUV – Toyota Prado “They are so reliable & built just right for the family, work & getaway.”

“As I am a keen beach fisherman , I find the Prado great value for money and a grand performer.” “I love the freedom of the wilderness that Prado enables with the prestige car finish.”

Performance – Maserati Gran Turismo “because if i won this i would need the free fuel as id never get out of it.”

“Just an awesome vehicle, style, performance.. I want one!” “Gran turismo reaks of sex appeal, clearly the most stylish and richly exhibited cars on the market.”

The 14 lucky voters who will share $70,000 worth of fuel from Coles Express have been announced on Carsguide.com.au.