This site’s three writers were asked a simple question … of all the vehicles driven in 2020, which one resonated the most?

ANNOUNCEMENT tomorrow night of New Zealand Car of the Year seemed a good opportunity to put a simple question to the three contributing writers to MotoringNZ.com.

Which was? “Select, from all the New Zealand-new vehicles they tried in 2020, the one you’d most wish could take permanent residence in your garage and explain why, in no more than 50 words”.

Let’s lift the garage door and see what’s behind.

Rob Maetzig – Toyota Yaris Cross hybrid

Why did this car impress? Three reasons. First, it is a compact sports utility, which means it competes in the hottest market segment. Second, it is electrified which is extremely important in these carbon footprint-centric times. And thirdly, it’s a little beauty to drive.

Colin Smith – Ford Focus ST

Because? It continues the ST hot-hatch bloodline and edges a step closer to the car you can’t buy any more – the Focus RS. The Toyota GR Yaris is a touch more exciting but the space and practicality of the Focus ST makes it a performance car all-rounder.

Richard Bosselman – Land Rover Defender

… or the Toyota Yaris GR. They’re both astounding, engaging. Yet, it has to be the Land Rover. No disrespecting the hot Yaris, but Defender is more serious; it’s a tool, it’s a family, with a range of styles and engines, including a plug-in hybrid. Reaching a broad audience, it is also more vital and more from the maker’s heart. One other plus. It makes every rival feel even more ancient than some already are. My pick for NZCOTY.