AutoWeek Editors' Choice Awards Announced from the 2005 Frankfurt International Motor Show

DETROIT, Sept. 15 -- The AutoWeek Editors' Choice Awards were revealed this week by AutoWeek Editor and Associate Publisher Dutch Mandel from the 2005 Frankfurt International Motor Show.

The winning vehicles, as selected by the magazine's editorial staff are:

Most Fun - Mitsubishi Sportback: Design cues from the striking Mitsubishi Concept-Sportback will likely be incorporated in to the Japanese automaker's future production vehicles. The Sportback was created in Mitsubishi's European design center in Trebur, near Frankfurt. The Sportback is a preview of a new range of models Mitsubishi is planning over the next three years. The prototype is Mitsubishi's first use of its flexible lower-medium segment architecture developed with the Chrysler group.

Best Concept - Jeep Compass: Jeep is testing a global portfolio expansion at Frankfurt with the world premiere of the Compass concept. This compact SUV promises strong fuel economy from an all-new 2.4-liter World Engine and 2.0- liter diesel coupled with a CVT. The Compass targets those who have never considered Jeep with a tough, rally-like persona thanks to bold 19-inch wheels, a steeply raked windshield, deep fascia, sculpted hood, rear spoiler and low stance.

Most Significant - Fiat Grande Punto: For the Grande Punto, Fiat is aiming to repeat the historical success of the previous model, without following in its footsteps. Although the car belongs to the European B segment, its size, equipment and characteristics represent an alternative to many C-segment cars, according to Fiat. There are two gas engines (a 65 hp 1.2-liter and the new 77 hp 1.4-liter), and four turbodiesels (the 120 and 130 hp 1.9 Multijet, the 75 hp 1.3 Multijet 16v and the new 90 hp 1.3 Multijet 16v with a variable geometry turbo).

Best in Show - Porsche Cayman: Frankfurt was the first time the Cayman was shown at an auto show. A little more than a Boxster, and a little less than a 911, the Cayman is a Boxster-based, mid-engine coupe using a 3.4-liter flat six developing 295 hp and 251 lb ft for power. The Cayman has a six- speed manual transmission. Porsche promises 911-like torsional rigidity. U.S. sales start in Spring.

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