Michael Moroney, Chairman of the IMWA, said the slowdown has impacted on the number of new models coming onto the market in comparison with previous years. "However, I am pleased to say that one thing that has not suffered is the quality of the cars in the running for our awards," he added, "from really exciting superminis right up to luxury/sport models, they are all there in the 2010 field of runners."
The 27 voting members of the Irish Motoring Writers Association assess each vehicle, attributing points on the basis of criteria ranging from innovation and safety, to space, comfort, build quality, driving quality and value for money.
This year sees a change in sponsorship for the awards. Semperit Tyres who sponsored the awards for the last 20-years is passing the title to Continental Tyres.
“We are sure that the Continental Irish Car of the Year title will become as useful an aid to Irish car-buyers as the Semperit title has been for the last 20 years," says Paddy Murphy of Continental Tyres Ireland.
The full field of candidates are as follows: Alfa Romeo MiTo, Audi A5 Sportback, Audi Q5, BMW X1, BMW Z4, BMW 5 Gran Turismo, Dodge Journey, Ford Ka, Honda Jazz, Honda Accord, Hyundai i20, Kia Soul, Lexus RX450h, Lotus Evora, Mazda3, Mazda MX5, Mercedes Benz E-Class, Mercedes CLC, Opel Insignia, Peugeot 3008, Peugeot Partner Tepee, Porsche Panamera GT, Renault Megane, Renault Scenic & Grand Scenic, Renault Kangoo Passenger, Suzuki Alto, Toyota Avensis, Toyota iQ, Toyota Urban Cruiser, VW Polo and VW Golf.
In the coming weeks the full listing will be reduced to a short list of 10 cars – two in each of the following category awards:
Continental Irish Small Car of the Year
Continental Irish Family Car of the Year
Continental Irish MPV of the Year
Continental Irish Luxury/Sport Car of the Year
Continental Irish SUV/Crossover Car of the Year
Last year the Semperit Irish Car of the Year title went to the Citroen C5 while the van accolade was won by the Citroen Berlingo/Peugeot Partner.
In our picture Paddy Murphy, General Manager, Continental Tyres Ireland (right), and Michael Moroney, Chairman, Irish Motoring Writers Association, look on as silversmith Edward Cook brings the new Continental Irish Car of the Year trophy to life.
Advt
