Perfectly aligned with the accelerated electrification process that is characterizing current motoring in Europe, the seven finalists who aspired to win the Car of the Year in Europe 2024 award can plug in. Some of them still have versions equipped with combustion engines, but in all cases there are alternatives capable of circulating solely using the energy provided by their batteries, whether they are pure electric cars or plug-in hybrid models.
Unlike other international awards, which have multiple divisions, the European Car of the Year has a single champion, a determining factor in promoting its prestige. All new models that invade the market compete on equal terms, without discriminating by commercial segment or price. With a jury made up of 59 motor journalists from 22 countries, Moveo has representation on the voting ballots.
In the points counting ceremony held during the Geneva Motor Show press day, inspired by the rhythm that characterizes the Eurovision music contest, the ranking of the seven candidates was established. When computing the votes in the final, the winner was the Renault Scenic, which shared the spotlight with the BMW 5 Series and the Peugeot 3008.
The Renautl Scenic, deserved winner of the trophy, has added a total of 329 points. Second place went to the BMW 5 Series (308 points), while the Peugeot 3008 completed the podium with its third position (197 points). The Kia EV9 was fourth (190 points), the Volvo EX30 fifth (168 points), the BYD Seal sixth (131 points), and the Toyota C-HR finished seventh (127 points).
All finalists usually have solid arguments to be voted on. This year, the BMW 5 Series demonstrates that three-volume bodies allow considerable energy savings compared to any SUV. This car inherits the traditional sporting temperament that the prestigious German brand has defended throughout its history, and stands out for both the quality of materials and its dynamic refinement. With a range made up of electric and combustion versions, it also stands out for its practical family bodywork alternatives.
Manufacturers of Chinese origin, which are beginning to gain prominence in the European market, are decisively betting on electric models. The BYD Seal is a magnificent example of common sense applied to software to put it at the driver's service. Unfortunately, the narrow access to the trunk makes it difficult to transfer luggage.
For its part, the good momentum of Korean firms is evident through the Kia EV9, which dares to propose new benchmarks for the large-size SUV segment. This car puts level 3 autonomous driving on the market, which will soon allow driving in many countries without the obligation to hold the steering wheel with your hands.
The passage of time is proving that those responsible for the French lion brand are right, who opted in the past for elevated instrumentation. The panoramic i-Cockpit of the Peugeot 3008 acts as a powerful sales argument. With an approved range of up to 700 kilometers, the electric range of this SUV puts an end to customer fears about autonomy.
On the other hand, to have a good aerodynamic coefficient, Renault has decided to opt for a body of moderate height. Designed to succeed in Europe, the new Scenic stands out for its versatility of use. Ideal for moving around the city and traveling with the family, it offers the advanced Google Assistant as a positive differentiating factor.
Without losing the avant-garde personality of the previous version, the body of the new generation of the Toyota C-HR has a more elegant design, with the aim of expanding its customer base. The arrival of PHEV technology means an interesting added value for the range, although the new hybridization was expected to be quieter.
By surprise, Volvo demonstrates that electric vehicles can currently compete with combustion engines in terms of price. With a simple design, intended to withstand the passage of years, the EX30 has a range consisting of two batteries and two motors. The top version holds the brand's acceleration record.
