Texas Auto Writers Award Toyota Camry, Avalon, and Corolla Models In 2018 Roundup, But Which Model Took Home Top Honors?

The Texas Auto Writers Association (TAWA) holds an annual auto roundup at Eagles Canyon Raceway's real-world road condition track in Texas to determine which new cars are the best. This year, its picks were overwhelmingly Toyota Models. However, it was a Lexus that took home the top honor as "Car of Texas."

The Camry was voted Best Midsized car, the 2019 Corolla Hatchback was voted the Best Compact Car and the Toyota 2019 Avalon was voted the Best Full-Size car and also won Best New Interior.

“To have the new Avalon, Corolla Hatchback, and Camry recognized as the best of Texas by TAWA is truly an honor," said Lisa Materazzo, vice president of Vehicle Marketing and Communications at Toyota. "These three compelling new products continue to show our commitment to passenger cars, our dealers, and our guests."

Four dozen TAWA journalists performed the tests on the vehicles, focusing on five key pillars – exterior, interior, performance, value, and personal appeal. 45 vehicles competed in 12 classes.

The biggest award each year is "Car of Texas." This year, the V8-powred Lexus LC 500 luxury touring coupe earned that distinction. “Lexus is committed to providing drivers with exceptional craftsmanship, quality and long-term dependability, and the 2018 LC 500 remains true to this hallmark with its cutting-edge design, and superior performance and safety features,” said Jeff Bracken, group vice president and general manager, Lexus Division. “We are grateful to the Texas Auto Writers Association for hosting this exciting event and are honored to be recognized as the Car of Texas.”