The Ford Focus, Hyundai Elantra and Volkswagen Passat are the finalists for the 2012 North American Car of the Year. The annual award, given by a group of 50 automotive journalists, is a feather in any auto manufacturer’s cap and was revealed December 15 at an Automotive Press Association luncheon in Detroit. Signifying value and fuel efficiency, the three contenders have a lot to offer in a smaller package, including affordable pricing. Sales of the Hyundai Elantra have increased 45.5 percent through November of 2011. At VW, Passat sales have leaped 29.9 percent in the same month. The finalists for the 2012 North American Truck of the Year are the BMW X3, Honda CR-V and Land Rover Range Rover Evoque.