So feedback offline has brought up a subject that some feel I ignored. It was not intentional, but given this feedback it appears it's important to mention it.
Some of the releases this past years that were popular are not "brand new". Some of them are based on older models that perhaps have seen a spark of new interest. I thought it was hinted at with the Carrera 57 Chevy as it falls into that category in my eyes. HOWEVER, there are other models that are worth mentioning.
FIRST Racer Group 5 Series

Without a doubt, this entire series is a success. There was some "news" on another site about Racer going through some challenges, but the Sideways line of cars appears to be well in hand and intended to continue. This is good because this series of cars is a very popular one.
The scale detail of these models is appealing. They are not perfect and I have my personal taste in scale to take in account. Regardless of that, these cars are FUN! :auto-checkeredflag: I have collected more of these cars than I expected and still want more. With all the quality Slot.it gear under the body, it's a series of cars that give me the smooth performance I want without a lot of work.
SECOND Avant Slot Mirage
Another line of cars that has been around for a number of years. But this year it seemed they re-appeared and this time around I wasn't going to pass them up.

These cars are simple a BLAST. Not sure how many hours we have burned racing these, but I assure you the bodies do not look as pretty as they used to :) With the decent quality gear inside and the easy tuning of the chassis, these cars were a hit and not just in the old Skunkworks. Many of you chimed in with the same results. They do not produce a large selection, but what they have is worth looking at. Another series that non-magnet/wood enthusiasts should seriously look closer at.
These are just a couple of my favorites this past year that have seen a lot of track time and do deserve praise.