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Volvo XC90 named Auto Express Car of the Year

30th Oct 15

Volvo XC90 named Auto Express Car of the Year

The new Volvo XC90 has been named the Auto Express Car of the Year. It also drove away with the prize for the best large sports utility vehicle at the London-held awards.

Steve Fowler, Editor-in-Chief of Auto Express, said: We've been waiting a long time for the XC90, but it was well worth the wait - it's a sensational SUV. It not only sets new standards for Volvo, but for the car market in general, leading in terms of technology, efficiency, style and safety.

"It's also got an element of style - inside and out - that you might not have expected. If the XC90 points the way for the future of Volvo, the future looks very bright indeed, he added.

The magazine's team of experienced road testers ran the rule over more than 300 new cars in 2015. Some of the other big winners included the BMW i3, which won the Green Car of the Year, the Mercedes S-Class (Luxury Car of the Year) and the Ford Transit (Van of the Year). Skoda performed well, with the Skoda Superb winning Family Car of the Year and the eco-friendly Skoda Citigo scooping the award for best city car.

The Land Rover Defender, seen as a British icon and an important part of the country's automotive heritage, was given a special award, becoming the first vehicle to enter the newly established Auto Express Hall Of Fame.

This not the first time the XC90 has scooped the Auto Express best car award. The first generation version of the car also won top honours in the annual awards back in 2003.

According to Auto Express the car impressed on several fronts.

Auto Express said: If Car of the Year was based on looks, the Volvo would have romped to victory. Thanks to its blend of imposing proportions and exquisite detailing, the handsome SUV has huge presence without being overly brash or aggressive.

However, it's inside where the XC90 really impresses. With its clean, crisp, minimalist design, top-notch materials and flawless quality, its cabin feels as luxurious as models costing twice as much. And it's packed with stunning hi-tech features, it continued.

There's also plenty of room, plus the advantage of a seven-seat layout. Of course, there's more to this award winner than a pretty face and practical cabin. It's good to drive, too, in a relaxing and unflustered way. Volvo delivers the best in comfort and refinement, and it benefits from well weighted steering, composed handling and impressive safety kit.

The awards will likely have caused celebrations in China, as the XC90 is the first car to have been entirely conceived, designed and constructed since Volvo's takeover by Chinese firm Geely.

Steve Fowler said: "Geely has provided the backing for Volvo to produce one of the best cars in the world, and that's exactly what they've done - the XC90 is a stunning car. Geely must be very pleased with its investment in Volvo right now."

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