OAKVILLE BEAVER Wednesday, April 8, 2009 · 26 World Car of the Year Announces Top Finalists Carguide Magazine Metroland Newspapers The countdown continues in preparation for the 2009 World Car Awards winners' press conference at the New York International Auto Show this Thursday. Announcing the annual World Car of the Year awards at the New York show is a fitting finale to the international auto show season that begins each fall with either the Paris or Frankfurt motor shows. From an initial entry list of fiftyone (51) new vehicles from all over the world, then a short list of ten finalists, the top three contenders for the overall 2009 World Car title were announced last week by the international accounting firm KPMG. They are, in alphabetical order: Ford Fiesta; Toyota iQ and Volkswagen Golf VI. To be eligible for the overall World Car award, the contender had to be in production, and sold, on at least two continents during 2008. Vehicles are selected and voted on by an international jury panel comprised of fifty-nine (59) top-level automotive journalists from twenty-five (25) countries around the world. Each juror was appointed by the World Car Steering Committee on the basis of his or her expertise, experience, credibility, and influence. Three additional winners for the World Performance Car, World Green Car award, and the World Car Design of the Year will also be announced at the New York International Auto Show on Thursday. Conditions Apply. Expires Conditions Apply. Expires 03/31/2009 04/10/2009