Geneva Motor Show has to be one of, if not the biggest date in the motor show calendar. It’s crazy to think that this particular motor show has been going since 1905, and year after year huge crowds are drawn in to see what is being exhibited by the biggest and most innovative manufacturers in the world. Last year, a total of 660,000 motor enthusiasts descended on the city of Geneva to attend the famous Motor Show, and this year we’re expecting a similar number.
Of course, there will be a load of new cars on show as well as prototypes and concepts, but this year the finalists of the World Car of The Year Awards have also been announced.
Up to now, there were 10 vehicles shortlisted by the panel. Audi has had their new all-electric ‘e-Tron’ SUV included, BMW has had their epic new 3 Series shortlisted, Ford is in there with their new Focus, the Genesis G70 is an interesting inclusion, same with the upcoming Hyundai Nexo. British designed Jaguar I-Pace is included, so too is the Mercedes-Benz A-Class. Interestingly the characterful new Suzuki Jimny has a spot, alongside 2 (technically 3) Volvo models, the XC40 SUV and the S60/V60 saloon and estate.
I’m sure you will point out that some of these cars aren’t on sale yet, such as the Hyundai Nexo and the new 3 Series, however they will be in dealerships before May 2019 in at least 2 countries, and the manufacturers have also provided early edition models to the panel of judges to be tested, therefore meeting qualifying criteria for the awards.
So, who has made the final cut?
Audi e-Tron
The new all-electric e-Tron could become the first electric car to take home top honours since the Nissan Leaf way back in 2011. It’s no real surprise that the e-Tron has made it this far. It’s such a well round ‘EV’ in that it offers all the perks that are provided within the current Audi SUV range, only powered by a battery and motor that should return up to 300 miles on a single charge. Of course, it’s still an Audi so it’s exceptionally luxurious and great to look at. The e-Tron stands out from other electric cars largely because it doesn’t look electric, which buyers and the World Car of The Year Awards jury find appealing.
Jaguar I-Pace
Another electric car makes it’s to the finals! That’s right, the Jaguar I-Pace is in the top 3 for selection as the World Car of The Year. It’s a worthy contender too. The I-Pace was the first premium electric vehicle to enter the market which could hold a credible rivalry with the Tesla range, with the Audi e-Tron following shortly after. The I-Pace is a distinct looking SUV with a claimed 298-mile range and the option to have audacious 22” wheels. Of course, the onboard technology is extremely advanced but the I-Pace doesn’t fall short on the simple stuff. It can comfortably carry 5 adults and there’s a pretty sizeable boot. All in all, a very easy car to live with.
Volvo S60/V60
The Volvo XC60 deservedly took the crown last year as the World Car of The Year, but can Volvo make it 2 in 2? We’ll have to wait and see, as the S60 and V60 models have qualified for the finals. These models share the same scalable platform as the epic XC60, as well as the same high-quality parts and fixtures. That means you get ultra-high levels of equipment as well as the most comfortable interior experience of any car at this price point. Aesthetically, both the saloon and estate look the business. Sharp and smart, not too fussy. Volvo are coming up against stiff competition in the I-Pace and e-Tron, but can their comprehensive S60 and V60 models overcome the futuristic EVs? We’ll see...
So, the next stop for the World Car Awards is in the Big Apple. On Wednesday the 17th of April, the grand final awards ceremony will take place at the New York International Auto Show. Out of those three finalists, who do you think will bring home the crown? Let us know in the comments section below.