It’s official – the Volvo XC40 is Carsales Car of the Year for 2018.
The award recognises excellence in the new-vehicle market and distinguishes one winner from every new model released in Australia.
“After extensive testing, the Volvo XC40 outscored all other finalists to emerge as the deserving recipient of the honour – Carsales Car of the Year for 2018,” says Mike Sinclair, editor-in-chief for Carsales.com.au.
“The Volvo XC40 is the Swedish brand’s first compact SUV and was described by our expert judges as sophisticated, high-tech, refined, dynamic, safe and ergonomically innovative, making it comfortable and easy to drive.
“It also scored very well on key cost to own and run data,” he adds.
A three-stage judging process saw a field of 24 contenders whittled down to a shortlist of 11 finalists and then one overall winner.
“Each of the 11 finalists were put through their paces by Carsales’ expert judges and scored independently. Data generated by car value specialist RedBook.com.au, including cost to purchase, own and run, were other important factors taken into consideration,” Sinclair says.
The finalists were evaluated for their excellence across the following categories:
- Powertrain: Powertrain performance, acceleration, drivability and efficiency.
- Chassis: Suspension performance, steering precision/feedback, brakes and stability.
- Comfort and refinement: Ride quality, ergonomics, seat comfort front and rear, ease of use, NVH and powertrain refinement.
- Packaging: Space efficiency, cargo capacity, oddments storage, practicality.
- Safety, infotainment and connectivity: Driver aids, ANCAP rating, infotainment, convenience systems, connectivity, navigation and Bluetooth.
The final winner was decided through a combination through the expert judges’ scores, RedBook data and safety system bonus points.
“In addition to its exemplary blend of packaging appeal and high-tech innovation, the Volvo XC40 excelled in terms of value (price and options), after-sales support and strong projected resale value,” Sinclair says.
Volvo Car Australia managing director Nick Connor is thrilled with the award.
“Of all the hundreds of cars that enter the Australian market, for the XC40 to attain the pinnacle of Carsales Car of the Year for 2018 is a testament to Volvo’s evolution and growth. To also have the XC60 honoured caps off to what has been a landmark year.”
The Hyundai Santa Fe and Volvo XC60 were also presented with Highly Commended awards.
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