The countdown has begun in preparation for the 2009 World Car awards winners’ press conference at the New York International Auto Show on Thursday, April 9, 2009.

A jury of fifty-nine distinguished international automotive journalists selected the finalists by secret ballot, based on their experience with each candidate as part of their professional work.  The jury members constitute a balance of representation from Asia, Europe, North America, South America, as well as other parts of the world.  All hold significant stature within their own regions and countries. 

The 2009 World Performance Car, presented by Mobil 1, will be chosen from one of these top ten finalists:

- Audi RS 6 Avant

- BMW 135i Coupe / Cabriolet

- Corvette ZR1

- Lamborghini LP560-4 Gallardo

- Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG

- Mercedes-Benz SL 63 AMG

- Mitsubishi Evo X / Evo MR

- Nissan GT-R

- Porsche 911 Carrera

- Subaru Impreza WRX STI

The jurors’ next step is to re-evaluate the “top ten” cars in both classes, in preparation for a final round of voting in February.    They will specifically rate each vehicle in terms of overall merit, value, safety, environmental responsibility, emotional appeal, and significance.   KPMG will again tabulate the vote results; then announce the top three finalists on March 9, 2009.