They came at the Continental Irish Car of the Year 2013 Awards, held in the Convention Centre Dublin, attended by almost 200 representatives of importers and distributors, and Ireland's motoring press.
Paddy Murphy of Continental Tyres Ireland, sponsors of the Awards, said that one positive in the recession was the high level of personal savings in the country. Though that money is not being circulated in the current climate, it will be 'unlocked' at some point, and cars will be on the buying list of those who decide it is time to spend.
Gerry Murphy, chairman of the Irish Motoring Writers Association who organise and vote in the Awards, said there had been significant losses in the motor trade here, but that carmakers and their dealers 'are putting their best foot forward' with better value for their customers.
"You in the trade deserve support," he said, adding a warning that the Government must realise that as a 'cash cow' for the State in terms of taxation revenue, the business will disappear if it is 'not fed and nourished' by incentives.
Michael Nugent of BMW Ireland, accepting the main award of Continental Irish Car of the Year 2013 in respect of the BMW 3 Series, also said it was time to 'focus on the positive' going forward in Ireland. He said he 'hadn't expected the award' but it reflected the fact that BMW can now offer such cars 'in the mainstream'.
