Every year, the automotive industry eagerly anticipates the World Car Awards, a prestigious competition that spotlights the best new cars of the year. The announcement of the finalists, resulting from a survey conducted among top global automotive journalists serving as jurors, sets the stage for the grand awards ceremony scheduled for March 27th.
Unveiling the Contenders
Executives worldwide are on edge, wondering if their multi-billion-dollar investments in development and marketing will secure a spot among the finalists. The spotlight is on Hyundai, aiming for a remarkable third consecutive win, and the possibility of a Chinese brand emerging victorious. The burning question remains: Will an electric car clinch the World Performance Car award for the third time in the last four years?
Insight into the Selection Process
Not only do these awards reflect industry trends and market shifts, but they also serve as a barometer for demand, consumer desire, and, ultimately, sales. Jurors, including myself, evaluate finalists based on driving dynamics, innovation, technology, performance, marketplace significance, and overall value.
Navigating the Road to Eligibility
For a vehicle to be eligible, it must be new or significantly redesigned, have a global presence, and be available for sale in more than two major markets in the 14 months ending March 2024. The final results, meticulously tallied by KPMG, remain sealed until the New York Auto Show.
Global Automotive Trends Unveiled
The 2024 World Car of the Year Finalists showcase the evolving landscape of the automotive industry. Surprises include the Abarth 500 making a triumphant return as an electric car, BYD emerging as a potential World Car of the Year, and Geely gaining ground with Volvo and Zeekr. Traditional contenders such as Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Mazda, Hyundai, Kia, Porsche, and Volkswagen also make appearances.
Here the Contenders for 2024:
World Electric Vehicle:
- BMW i5
- Kia EV9
- Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV
- Volkswagen ID.7
- Volvo EX30
World Luxury Car:
- BMW 5 Series / i5
- Lexus LM
- Mercedes-Benz CLE
- Mercedes-Benz E-Class
- Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV
World Performance Car:
- BMW M2
- BMW XM
- Ferrari Purosangue
- Hyundai Ioniq 5 N
- Porsche Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid
World Urban Car:
- Abarth 500e
- BYD Dolphin
- Lexus LBX
- Suzuki Fronx
- Volvo EX30
World Car of the Year:
- BYD Seal / Atto 4
- Ford Bronco
- Hyundai Kona / Kona Electric
- Hyundai Santa Fe
- Kia EV9
- Mazda CX-90
- Subaru Crosstrek
- Toyota Prius
- Volkswagen ID.7
- Volvo EX30
The suspense will linger for another two months until the top three finalists in each category are revealed at the Geneva International Motor Show on February 27th. Additionally, the World Car Awards will announce the coveted World Car Design of the Year and Person of the Year. The ultimate winners will take center stage at the New York Auto Show’s opening on March 27th.
