Fashionistas like to accessorize. And that fascination with accessories extends to the cars they drive. While just about any vehicle can be transformed with a few simple products, there are certain makes and models that are more accessory-friendly than others.
To find out which vehicles those are, car shoppers can look to the winners of the SEMA Award before making their purchase. Presented annually by the Specialty Equipment Market Association, a trade association representing the automotive customization industry, the SEMA Award is given to vehicles that can easily and affordably be improved to better fit your needs.
“The SEMA Award recognizes vehicle models that specialty-equipment manufacturers believe are the best platforms for the newest and most innovative products,” says Chris Kersting, president and CEO for SEMA. A variety of different products such as seat covers, wheels, tires, suspension and exhaust can all make for a simple yet immense difference on your new ride. Here are this year’s SEMA Award winners:
Hottest Car: Ford Mustang
The iconic Mustang took home the Award for Hottest Car, which is no surprise considering it is one of the most popular cars for vehicle enhancement. Whether you’re adding LED headlights or a new exhaust system, both the appearance and performance can easily be upgraded on the Ford Mustang. On and off the track, this vehicle continues to be reliable, customizable and in high demand among consumers today.
Hottest Truck: Ford F-Series
One of the most popular selling lines of trucks on the market is the Ford F-Series. Because of its unlimited versatility, the F-Series is the winner of the SEMA Award for Hottest Truck. Everything from tonneau covers to protect the bed, running boards for easy access or a new air intake system for instant power gains can be upgraded, transforming your truck into a bold, new ride.
Hottest 4X4/SUV: Jeep Wrangler
As the defending champion of the hottest 4X4/SUV, the Jeep Wrangler wins its sixth SEMA Award. There are a number of different ways to turn your Wrangler into the ultimate off-road ride or just personalize it as your everyday vehicle. If you’re ready to hit the trails, consider a lift kit and purchasing off-road or all-terrain tires. Ramp up that rugged look while protecting the exterior with hood mounts, fender flares or rock sliders. As an enthusiast favorite in the off-road community, the Wrangler is known for its durability, unique styling and ability to be personalized in a way completely unique to you.
Hottest Sport Compact: Ford Focus
Ford vehicles are known for being accessory friendly, so it is no surprise that the Ford Focus was named the winner of the Hottest Sport Compact. As the industry continues to grow, more and more accessories are becoming available for this market segment. Whether it’s a body kit, wheel/tire package or suspension and steering systems, your Ford Focus can easily be transformed into the ultimate tuner ride.
The SEMA Award is intended to guide consumers towards the hottest trending and most accessory-friendly vehicles on the road. Consumers spend nearly $36 billion a year on products and accessories to enhance the performance and styling of today’s vehicles, according to SEMA. Winners were selected by exhibiting manufacturers at the 2015 SEMA Show, the world’s premier automotive specialty equipment trade event where the newest and most innovative products are introduced each year. To learn more about the 2015 SEMA Award winners, visit www.semashow.com/semaaward.
