Texas Auto Writers Choose Truck of Texas Finalists at Texas Truck Rodeo

Texas Auto Writers Association (TAWA) chose finalists for Truck of Texas and other top awards at the 2019 Texas Truck Rodeo. Vehicles were evaluated at a driving event held at Star Hill Ranch in Bee Cave, October 20-22. Trophies for three prestigious awards (2019 Truck of Texas, SUV of Texas, and Compact SUV of Texas) will be presented at the San Antonio Auto Show on November 20.

Over 50 journalists drove 40+ vehicles during the day and a half event. Drivers put their vehicles through off- and on-road routes, testing them for strengths and weaknesses. Vehicles were also judged on features and durability. Auto journalists used five criteria: interior, exterior, performance, value, and personal appeal to reach their decisions.

Nine Finalists

Photo: Kevin McCauley

FINALISTS, TRUCK OF TEXAS
2020 Jeep Gladiator; 2020 Ram 1500; 2020 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro 4×4

FINALISTS, SUV OF TEXAS
2020 Jeep Wrangler; 2020 Kia Telluride SX; 2020 Volvo XC90

FINALISTS, COMPACT SUV OF TEXAS
2020 Hyundai Santa Fe; 2019 Mazda CX-5; 2020 Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road

Photo: Kevin McCauley

Star Hill Ranch, site of TAWA’s 2019 driving rodeo, is a unique event facility that has been used as a movie and TV set. With its authentic old Western town setting, it’s also a popular country music concert site.

Manufacturers celebrate awards earned at Texas Truck Rodeo by often mentioning these honors in press releases and worldwide promotional campaigns. Sponsors of the 2019 Texas Truck Rodeo were Austin Auto Show, Big Tex Trailers, DFW Auto Show, Houston Auto Show, Katzkin Automotive Leather, Prestige Auto, San Antonio Auto & Truck Show, and Wieck.

Texas Auto Writers Association

Photo: Kevin McCauley

For more than three decades, the Texas Auto Writers Association (TAWA) has promoted accuracy and quality in the automotive journalism field. TAWA has become one of the most influential and recognized automotive journalist associations in the nation. Its journalist members are among the most respected in the country.

TAWA hosts the annual Texas Truck Rodeo every fall, giving journalists the chance to test out vehicles that manufacturers choose to enter into the event. The logo for TAWA has appeared in Super Bowl commercials, and the winners of the “Truck of Texas” award often announce their win on nationally televised commercials.