Finalists of Australia's Best Cars awards announced

If you’re looking for some new wheels, check out the 45 finalists of the 2014 Australia's Best Cars awards, as chosen by Australia's motoring club experts after an intensive week of back-to-back testing.

220 cars in 15 categories ranging from micro cars under $15,000 to large four-wheel-drive vehicles for more than $120,000 were put to the test with three finalists selected for each category.

Australian Automobile Association chief executive Andrew McKellar described purchasing a new car as a major decision and that the assessment will make it a little easier for the consumer.

“The program is Australia’s most independent evaluation of value for money, design and function and on road performance of new vehicles,” said McKellar.

With the number of Australians purchasing smaller cars increasing, a Micro car category was introduced to the awards this year. Other changes included People Movers to Family Wagons and a revamp of the SUV and 4WD categories.

“These changes have been made to ensure the program reflects changing preferences in the new-car marketplace,” McKellar said.

Australia's Best Cars chief judge Mark Borlace said their research into each car will give consumers “all the information they need to compare against their personal criteria and make the process of buying a new car less intimidating.”

The winners will be announced at a national event in Brisbane on 25th November. Mozo advises Aussies in the market for a new car to always search for a competitive car loan deal.

Here's a rundown of the finalists of Australia's Best Cars awards: