posted 4 years ago

Mazda has fought off a list of impressive rivals to take the UK Car of the Year 2016 title with their iconic MX-5.

The latest version of the model was up against the likes of McLaren, Volvo and BMW, emerging victorious in more than one category by also winning Best Open Top Car of the Year. Mazda also notched up another win with the Supermini of the Year gong for the Mazda2.

“With the latest MX-5, Mazda has created the perfect roadster. A lightweight engaging, simplistic and even practical vehicle, which is an absolute pleasure to drive,” said John Challen, director of the UK Car of the Year Awards. Fellow director, Alisdair Suttie, commented: “The fourth generation is true to the original spirit of the MX-5: light, nimble and enormous fun.”

Since the launch of the latest fourth generation, the MX-5 has continued to woo buyers with Motoring.co.uk testing the model describing it as a true driver’s car for its nimbleness, agility and though it’s not the most powerful in its class, it is certainly one of the most enjoyable. Read our review here.

Jeremy Thompson, Mazda Motors UK managing director commented: “I’m delighted that the all-new Mazda MX-5 has added another prestigious award to its growing tally of accolades. The MX-5 embodies all that is great about our products. Its fun to drive character has earned it a place in the hearts of driving enthusiasts the world over.”

Narrowly missing out on the top spot was the Volvo XC90, the Swedish brand’s latest generation SUV did take the Best SUV title, while third place went to the Skoda Superb Estate.

The larger version of the Smart, the Forfour won in the Best City Car category, while McLaren had something to celebrate as their beastly performance model, the 570S took the Best Performance Car title.

The UK Car of the Year Awards, supported by Cox Automotive, bring together a selection of Britain’s motoring journalists to form a judging panel, which includes Motoring.co.uk’s road tester Olivia Gauch. Driving all category winners at a media day, the judges cast their votes on the top models in 12 different categories, eventually choosing one winner to take the coveted top prize.

Full list of UK Car of the Year Awards 2016 winners:

Best City Car

- Smart Forfour

Best Supermini

– Mazda2

Best Small Hatch

– Vauxhall Astra

Best Family Car

– Skoda Superb

Best Executive Car

– Jaguar XE

Best Luxury Car

– BMW 7 Series

Best Estate Car

– Skoda Superb Estate

Best MPV

– Ford S-Max

Best 4x4

– Volvo XC90

Best Coupé

– Ford Mustang

Best Open Top Car

– Mazda MX-5

Best Performance Car

– McLaren 570S

www.ukcoty.co.uk