This is the second time Volvo has taken the prize in the competition’s 31-year history (the S40 won in 2005). The XC90 has also won various national awards, namely Scottish SUV of the Year, North American Truck of the Year and Icelandic Car of the Year.
This is the winning year for Volvo brand.
Mazda 2 and Ford Fusion took second and third positions, respectively.
Greg Maruszewski, new managing director at Volvo Car South Africa (VCSA) said in his acceptance speech despite the challenges from other competitors, they deserve the recognition considering the slump in vehicles sales and other challenges associated with the motoring industry globally.
“Used cars interest will rise just like in 2009 but stressful for new car owners in 2019,” says Chris de Kock, Wesbank CE, during his prediction scenario outlook.
De Kock outlined macro economic scenarios that has affected the 350 000 slow purchasing of new cars namely risk; stressful and upside scenarios.
“In 2019 it will be economically challenging to purchase a vehicle that confirms the economic challenges and fiscal the country is facing.”
Here are the finalists:
BMW i3
Citroen C4 Cactus
Ford Fusion
Honda HR-V
Jaguar XE
Kia Sorento
Land Rover Discovery Sport
Mazda 2
Opel Corsa
Opel Adam
Peugeot 308
Volvo XC90
