The prize, determined by a jury of 58 motoring journalists in 22 countries, is the most prestigious auto award in Europe and is widely used in advertising by the winning manufacturer.
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The Opel Astra has narrowly beaten the Volvo XC90 to be named European Car of the Year.
It’s the fifth Opel to win vehicle of the Year honours since the award was inaugurated in 1964, joining the Kadett E, victor in 1985, the Omega A in 1987, the Insignia in 2009 and the Ampera in 2012. The runner ups Volvo XC90 received 294 points, while the Mazda MX-5 received 202 points.
Three new Opel models have been named “Car of the Year” in its last eight editions. “Astra is one of the most technologically advanced small cars in the world; in addition to an intuitive infotainment system, it also boasts a range of premium features you would usually expect only on high-end prestige vehicles”.
The awarding occurred on the eve of the first press day at the 86th Geneva International Motor Show.
Originally unveiled at the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show, the redesigned Opel Astra is a major improvement as it rides on an all-new platform that enables the model to weigh up to 441 pounds less than its predecessor.
The new Opel Astra comes in a five-door and the Sports Tourer version.
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That will change by the end of this year, and Holden’s enthusiasm for its arrival has heightened following the award. Seven cars in total were in the final shakeup.
