The new Volkswagen Polo has been named the 2010 World Car of the Year. It is big news for the German car-maker as this is the second consecutive year that one of its models has been crowned as the World Car of the Year. The Golf VI won the award in 2009.
In 2010, the top three contenders for World Car of the Year title were, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Toyota Prius and Volkswagen Polo. Merit, value, safety, environment, significance and emotional appeal are the criteria for the World Car of the Year.
On the right track
Chairperson of the Board of Management of Volkswagen AG Prof. Dr. Martin Winterkorn said they are honored that the Polo was chosen.
“After the great triumph of the Golf last year, we are delighted to repeat this success with the new Polo. These automobiles have won numerous awards, winning almost every award the automotive industry has to offer. This shows Volkswagen is on the right track and is offering arguably the best range of products in its history,” he said.
The award was received by Walter de Silva, head of design of the Volkswagen Group at the New York International Auto Show.
“The new Volkswagen Polo generation fascinates in two ways - by its uncomplicated, unique and timeless design as well as its high efficiency. Already more than 230?000 customers worldwide have placed their orders for the new Volkswagen Polo,” said de Silva.
Prestigious
Now in its seventh year, the annual World Car awards have become one of the world’s most prestigious, credible and significant programmes of its kind. The majority of the 59 World Car jurors from 25 countries throughout the world chose the Polo from 30 entries.
Each juror drives and evaluates new vehicles on a regular basis as part of their on-going full-time professional work. Through their respective media they collectively reach an audience of many millions worldwide.
Made in South Africa
Since its South African launch in January this year, over 6?700 new Volkswagen Polos have been sold. It is already the number one selling South Africa passenger vehicle Brand in 2010.
The new Polo is manufactured at the Volkswagen of South Africa production plant in Uitenhage for the local market as well as for export to the global right hand drive markets such as Japan, United Kingdom, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia, Singapore, Malta and Cyprus.
Uitenhage is the sole production site for the right hand drive five-door new Volkswagen Polo. Due to the high demand for the new Polo in Europe, Volkswagen of South Africa will also build left hand drive export units in 2010.
