The Volkswagen Up has been declared the 2012 World Car of the Year at a press conference hosted by Bridgestone Corporation and the New York International AutoShow.
This is the third time that a Volkswagen has been declared the “World Car of the Year”. The Volkswagen Polo won the honour in 2010 and the Golf VI won the title in 2009, making it two consecutive years in a row.
The Volkswagen Up was chosen from an initial entry list of 34 new vehicles from all over the world, then a short list of 10, before the three finalists were selected: the Volkswagen Up, the BMW 3 Series, and the Porsche 911.
“This award shows once again that in the Up our designers and engineers have created a vehicle that has been thought through in minute detail, a vehicle that sets standards in its class for efficient use of space, safety, motoring fun and environmental compatibility,” said Dr Martin Winterkorn, chairman Volkswagen AG’s board of management.
The World Car Awards jurors observed that the “little Volkswagen Up has altered what we have come to expect from the city car segment”.
“Of note are the responsive steering, sophisticated suspension setup, new efficient engines and the quality of materials and finish. Never before in this economy segment have owners felt so premium. Look for every builder of city cars to up its game just to compete with the new VW”.
To be eligible for the overall World Car award, the candidates must become available for sale on at least two continents during the period beginning January 1, 2011 and ending May 30, 2012.
Vehicles are selected and voted on by an international jury panel comprising 64 top-level automotive journalists from 25 countries around the world. Each juror was appointed by the World Car steering committee on the basis of his or her expertise, experience, credibility, and influence. All jurors typically drive and evaluate new vehicles on a regular basis as part of their professional work. Through their respective outlets they collectively reach an audience of many millions world-wide.
The Up is on sale here in Ireland from €10,995 or from €99 per month through Volkswagen Bank.
