Trying to figure out what the best car of 2018 isn't so simple. On one hand, we could try to parse out the individual mechanical qualities of each car, and try to determine which car has the most objectively 'best' parts. Do that, and we'd likely end up with a car that costs an ungodly amount of money (more money means more engineering, and more engineering tends to deliver better mechanical quality).

On the other hand, we could simply try to figure out what the most popular car of 2018 is. However, our COTY evaluation is neither a scientific experiment nor a popularity contest. In reality, it's somewhere in between the two.

However, there is one more component to consider - expectations. You see, evaluating any car inevitably requires an evaluation of our expectations of it. This brings us to the Kia Stinger.

The Stinger is a car with a bold promise - to create a legitimately sporty sedan with real dynamic quality, offered at a price point that would appeal to the masses. And we must admit, we were initially hesitant.

We're now happy to admit that we were wrong. The Stinger is by no means perfect, but it manages to exceed our expectations in so many ways. From its distinct looks, high-quality cabin to its surprising agility and outrageous performance, the Stinger manages to genuinely surprise us in a time when most cars don't. And we're not alone. When it was launched, there was a buzz about the Stinger, and desirability among buyers.

When it comes to expectations, no car exceeded our expectations the way the Kia Stinger did. It was bold in ambition, but thorough in execution. That's why it is our Car of the Year.